Eat Some of Nashville’s Best Ice Cream

Nothing says summer like ice cream. And with the weather heating up, this is the perfect time to check out all that Nashville has to offer in the way of tasty frozen treats. Whether you’re looking for nostalgia, unique flavor combos or even vegan options, Nashville has plenty of homegrown businesses to help you keep your cool. For example, Bobbie’s Dairy Dip has been a local tradition since 1951, with delicious soft-serve ice cream, shakes and more. (Don’t forget the sprinkles!) Soft-serve fans also will want to stop by Sweet & Three, a great new spot tucked inside TailGate Brewery, where you can sample Monster Shakes (with or without the liquor) or build your own Stacker (picture parfait-style layers of ice cream and your choice of toppings). When it comes to old-school soda fountains, Elliston Place Soda Shop is hard to beat. A Nashville staple since 1939, this iconic shop just reopened earlier this month, with hand-dipped sundaes, sodas, floats, egg creams and a first-rate banana split. If you don’t mind battling the crowds downtown, Mike’s Ice Cream & Coffee Bar offers 36 gourmet flavors, plus a full espresso bar. (Be sure to try the frozen cappuccino.) Pied Piper Creamery is an East Nashville favorite, with fun flavors like Trailer Trash and Red Velvet Elvis. Milkshake connoisseurs swear by Legendairy Milkshake Bar and Gracie’s Milkshake Bar — both known for their over-the-top, picture-perfect creations. Keeping it dairy-free? Kokos Plant Based Ice Cream is incredibly creamy and satisfying, with flavors like Purple Rose Lemonade and Matcha Mint. Here’s to a sweet summer, Nashville! AMY STUMPFL