The Best Ice Cream in Palm Springs: 8 Local Favorites
Few things are more satisfying on a warm Palm Springs day than a great scoop of ice cream. From handcrafted gelato and fresh fruit paletas to decadent milkshakes and famous toffee bars, the city is full of delicious ways to cool off. Here are eight of our favorite local spots to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Kreem
Kreem helped introduce small-batch artisan ice cream to Palm Springs in 2020 and quickly became a favorite with both locals and visitors. Top flavors include Lemon Meringue Pie, Salted Chocolate, and Ube with Toasted Marshmallows (an excellent vegan option). Flavors rotate daily, so every visit is a little different. Fun fact: the Prickly Pear flavor is rumored to help cure hangovers. Just a 15-20 minute walk from Santiago (or borrow a bicycle for an even quicker trip).
Brandini Toffee
One of Palm Springs' favorite local confectioners also makes one of the city’s most irresistible frozen treats. Brandini’s hand-dipped vanilla ice cream bars are coated in milk chocolate and rolled in crumbles of their famous almond toffee. While you’re there, don’t forget to pick up a box of that toffee for later! Located downtown in front of the historic Plaza Theatre.
Gelato-A-Go-Go
This new favorite brings the classic flavors of Italian-style gelato and sorbetto to a super funky 70s-inspired gelateria in the heart of downtown. Choose from nearly 30 different flavors, all made fresh locally with high-quality ingredients. Creamy vegan options have an oat milk base, and everything is certified Kosher.
Hey Pops! at VillageFest
If you’re out strolling VillageFest on a Thursday evening, don’t miss the handcrafted paletas at Hey Pops! These Mexican-style frozen treats are made with peak-season fruit and come in flavors ranging from bright citrus and berries to creamy favorites like Date Shake. You may also find them at the Farmer’s Market on Saturdays.
Lappert's Super Premium Ice Cream
This popular Palm Springs ice cream and shaved ice parlor offers up to 45 different flavors every day, including dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan choices. Their famous Date Shake is always delicious, while Hawaiian-inspired treats like Dole Whip Floats and shaved ice make especially welcome companions on a hot afternoon.
Gelato Granucci
Family recipes dating back to 1929 are the foundation of this downtown gelateria, where every batch is made fresh each day using seasonal ingredients. Traditional flavors like Stracciatella sit alongside creations such as Amarena cherry and vegan Meyer Lemon. Coffee lovers shouldn't miss the Joshua Tree Coffee gelato, made with beans roasted in the nearby High Desert.
Great Shakes
If you're craving something seriously creamy and indulgent, this is your spot. Their rich milkshakes and malts come in dozens of flavors, all made with soft serve and finished with homemade whipped cream or toasted marshmallow, then topped with a warm mini doughnut perched on the straw. Lactose-free options are also available.
Shop(pe) Ice Cream & Shop
Located in the chic Uptown Design District at the Arrive Hotel, Shop(pe) serves a rotating menu of unique ice cream and sorbet flavors like Matcha Oreo, Rose Saffron, and Birthday Cake. Everything is crafted in-house featuring locally sourced and organic ingredients. It's the perfect stop after browsing the neighborhood's boutiques, galleries, and design shops!
Whether you're planning your next Palm Springs getaway or looking for a sweet break between sightseeing and pool time, these local favorites are well worth adding to your itinerary.