8 Tasty Ice Cream Shops in Baltimore, MD

Last updated in September 2024
An image of a ice cream shop.

Baltimore’s ice cream scene is nothing short of a sweet adventure, with shops that turn your craving for ice cream into an experience filled with fun and flavor. Places like BMore Licks and The Charmery are true gems, offering everything from classic treats to innovative flavors that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’ve got a love for traditional vanilla or feel adventurous enough to try flavors like Old Bay Caramel or Baklava, there’s a scoop for everyone here. And let’s not forget about the family-friendly atmospheres—these shops invite kids and adults alike to indulge in their sweet escapes.

1

BMORE LICKS

2437 Eastern Ave

Baltimore, MD 21224

(410) 732-5425

Pros and Cons

  • Incredible variety with over 30 hard ice cream flavors and 100+ soft serve options.

  • Generous portion sizes; patrons frequently mention great value for money.

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with special treats for dogs.

  • Fun and colorful ambiance perfect for capturing memories.

  • Quick service during non-peak periods.

  • Long wait times during peak hours can be frustrating.

  • Cashless policy may confuse first-time visitors.

  • Limited indoor seating can make it crowded, especially on busy evenings.

  • Parking can be a challenge in the busy Canton area.

What Is It?

BMore Licks serves up premium homemade ice cream and has quickly become a beloved spot in Baltimore. With over 30 flavors of hard ice cream and more than 100 soft-serve varieties, it’s a place that offers something for everyone in the family. Its vibrant, sunny atmosphere and dedication to quality make it ideal for both a casual outing and a sweet treat after a fun day in Patterson Park.

The Experience

Walking up to BMore Licks, you can’t help but smile at the colorful exterior and the buzz of excited chatter from people waiting in line. As you step inside, the delightful aroma of freshly made waffles and a hint of creaminess fills the air. The menu is a dream—so many flavors, including quirky options like Fruity Pebble soft serve and Unholy Cannoli ice cream. You take a moment, scanning the extensive selection, somewhat overwhelmed yet eager to dive into this ice cream wonderland.

After making your choice, you place your order, and the friendly staff quickly serve up a generous portion that easily could feed two; let’s be real, who doesn’t love a little extra ice cream? As you step outside with your colorful cone or cup, you’re ready to join an eager crowd enjoying their treats across from Patterson Park. The atmosphere is jubilant, with folks lounging on benches and little ones laughing as they enjoy their pup cups bursting with doggy goodies, too.

Settling down on a sunny patch near the park, you take your first bite. A symphony of flavors dances across your tongue—the concoction is rich and creamy, yet refreshing. You spot families with kids pointing at their cones, all smiles after trying unique flavors like Mexican Chocolate and Strawberry Cheesecake. Yes, that’s what ice cream is all about: happiness!

As the sun begins to dip, the experiences seem to echo all around—everyone seems to share in the excitement of finding their favorite flavor and the delight of the moment. From unique soft-serve concoctions to the nostalgic classics, BMore Licks creates a community hub for ice cream lovers. You realize this isn’t just about the ice cream; it’s about the experience, the camaraderie, and the sweet memories baked in every scoop. You know you’ll be coming back again and again!

When to Go

If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, consider visiting early or during weekday afternoons. The foot traffic tends to ease up outside of peak hours, allowing you to fully soak in the atmosphere while enjoying your ice cream without a long wait or crowds surrounding you.

2

Bmore Licks

901 Light St

Baltimore, MD 21230

(410) 732-5425

Pros and Cons

  • Extensive variety of flavors for both hard and soft serve.

  • Frequent creative flavor combinations keep it exciting.

  • Family-friendly atmosphere; loved by kids and adults alike.

  • Homemade ice cream ensures quality and freshness.

  • Convenient walk-up window for quick orders.

  • Limited indoor seating can lead to overcrowding.

  • Service can be rushed during peak hours.

  • Parking can be challenging during busy times.

What Is It?

Bmore Licks is your go-to ice cream haven in the heart of Baltimore, offering an impressive selection of over 30 flavors of hard ice cream and more than 100 varieties of soft serve. It's a family-friendly spot where you can treat yourself to delightful sundaes, flurries, and even special pup cups for your furry friends. Best of all, everything is homemade, making each scoop a delicious adventure!

The Experience

You stroll down Light Street on a warm afternoon, a sweet craving nudging you toward Bmore Licks. As you approach, the lively atmosphere draws you in; laughter and excitement fill the air around this bustling ice cream haven. Once inside, your eyes widen at the sheer array of options on display. With over a hundred soft serve flavors and creative combinations that have locals buzzing, you can’t help but feel like a kid in a candy store. From unique offerings like Cuban Coffee Oreo to classics like Cookie Monster, there’s flavor aplenty to suit everyone’s taste.

You decide to try the Strawberry Oreo and a scoop of Zekes Coffee with Toffee in a freshly made waffle cone. The moment you take your first bite, you’re hit with a wave of creamy satisfaction, perfectly balancing sweetness and richness. You also notice many families around, with kids giggling and enjoying their flurry blasts and sundaes, making it clear that Bmore Licks is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.

The staff seems friendly and efficient, quickly whipping up orders even as the line snakes out the door. After a little bit of waiting, the anticipation makes your treat even more rewarding. You soak up the sun at one of the nearby park benches, cherishing each mouthful and watching folks stop by the walk-up window for a quick treat in the same joyous spirit.

As you finish, you can't resist getting a pup cup for your furry friend, and you love seeing the excitement on their little face as they devour that dog-friendly delicacy while you continue to savor yours. All in all, your experience at Bmore Licks paints a perfect picture for a fun outing that ends with happy hearts and full bellies, making it clear why this spot is so cherished in the Baltimore community!

When to Go

If you're looking to enjoy a leisurely scoop without the long lines, visiting Bmore Licks earlier in the day, around 5 PM, tends to be the sweet spot. This time is less busy compared to the evening rush, allowing you to savor your ice cream in a more relaxed atmosphere.

3

Cajou - A Plant-Based Creamery & Cafe

411 N Howard St

Baltimore, MD 21201

(410) 929-2644

Pros and Cons

  • Unique and delicious flavors that surprise both vegans and non-vegans.

  • Friendly, welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel at home.

  • Generous sampling options let you explore various flavors before deciding.

  • Creamy, rich texture that is hard to believe is vegan.

  • Charming outdoor seating area perfect for enjoying treats.

  • Can get crowded, leading to longer wait times.

  • Limited parking in the area may pose an inconvenience.

  • Some flavor inconsistencies noted in terms of richness.

What Is It?

Cajou is a delightful plant-based creamery and cafe in Baltimore, known for its handcrafted cashew milk ice cream. Offering a variety of culturally-inspired flavors, all of which are vegan and most gluten-free, this charming spot presents a unique take on traditional ice cream that both vegans and non-vegans alike will appreciate.

The Experience

Stepping into Cajou, you’re instantly greeted by a vibrant atmosphere filled with colorful decor and the intoxicating scent of freshly made ice cream. As you approach the counter, the friendly owner welcomes you with a warm smile, eager to chat and share the story behind the flavors. It’s hard not to get drawn in as you explore the menu filled with unique ice cream flavors like Baklava, Blueberry Cheesecake, and the exotic Horchata. The owner encourages you to sample as many as you’d like, resulting in a fun, laid-back tasting experience that makes the decision of which flavor to choose a delightful dilemma.

Once you finally settle on your selection, perhaps the creamy Sweet Potato Pie or exotic Funky Monkey, you’re delighted to discover the ice cream's consistency is surprisingly rich and smooth — it’s hard to believe it’s dairy-free! As you dig into your cone or cup, the flavors burst with creativity and depth, leaving you marveling at how delicious vegan sweets can be. Many patrons remark that they often forget they're eating plant-based ice cream at all, and you’re beginning to see why.

Outside the shop, the seating area makes for a lovely spot to enjoy your treat while people-watching in the lively Baltimore neighborhood. Families gather for ice cream after outings to local attractions, and you find camaraderie among other patrons who can’t help but rave about their choices. There’s a sense of community here, fueled by the owner’s approachable demeanor and incredible product.

Whether you choose to grab a pint of your selected flavor to-go or sip on a refreshing milkshake made from one of their specialties, every bite leaves you wanting more. From frequent visitors to first-timers, it seems everyone leaves Cajou with the same feeling: that they’ve just discovered something truly special in Baltimore.

4

Moo Moo Cows - Ice Cream

926 Light St Suite 1

Baltimore, MD 21230

(443) 261-2697

Pros and Cons

  • Farm-fresh, creamy ice cream with over 30 unique flavors.

  • Friendly, welcoming staff who are eager to chat and share flavor stories.

  • Fun ambiance with lively decor, including disco balls.

  • Family and pet-friendly atmosphere with options for everyone.

  • Delicious homemade waffle cones that are always a hit.

  • Limited seating can make finding a spot difficult during busy hours.

  • Parking is often a challenge in the Federal Hill area.

What Is It?

Moo Moo Cows is a delightful ice cream shop in Baltimore, renowned for serving farm-fresh ice cream. With over 30 flavors of Super Premium Ice Cream and a family-friendly atmosphere, it's a local favorite. Patrons can enjoy unique creations like their house-made waffle cones, vegan options, and many toppings, all crafted with care and passion.

The Experience

As you step into Moo Moo Cows, a warm smile from the staff greets you, making you feel right at home. The vibrant decor, complete with disco balls, is enough to lift anyone's spirits. You’ll likely find yourself drooling over their menu that boasts over 30 flavors, each one crafted from locally sourced ingredients. As you scan the walls adorned with cow-themed artwork, the enticing aroma of freshly made waffle cones wafts through the air, tempting you to try one of those beauties for your scoop.

When it's your turn to order, the staff is eager to let you sample as many flavors as you’d like. They proudly share stories of their dairy farm sources and the ice cream-making process, enhancing your little tour of flavor. Maybe you’ll opt for the refreshing black raspberry or, if you’re feeling adventurous, the rich peanut butter ripple. Each bite is a heavenly experience—creamy and perfectly sweet, not to mention generous portions that leave you smiling.

You decide to go for a classic: a double scoop in a freshly made waffle cone, because why not treat yourself? As you savor each lick, you’re pleasantly surprised by the quality. It’s not overly sweet; instead, the flavors are rich and satisfying, making you appreciate the quality behind each scoop.

If you're visiting with family or friends, there’s a good chance your kids will be equally enchanted. From the brightly colored menu to the friendly interactions with the staff, it feels like a celebration. A family-friendly establishment, many customers note how much their pets are catered to as well—I mean, who doesn’t love a puppy sundae on a hot summer day? This charming spot seems to create happy memories, crafting not just sweet treats, but experiences that linger long after you’ve left.

When to Go

If you’re looking to beat the crowds, consider visiting Moo Moo Cows on a weekday or during the early afternoon. Late afternoon, especially around prime dinner times, tends to draw in large groups, making it a bustling scene. By aiming for a time like early afternoon, you’ll likely enjoy your ice cream at a leisurely pace and experience the service at its best.

5

Pitango Gelato & Coffee, Fells Point

802 S Broadway

Baltimore, MD 21231

(410) 236-0741

Pros and Cons

  • Handcrafted, organic gelato with a wide variety of flavors.

  • Friendly and inviting atmosphere with helpful staff.

  • Charming location near the water, perfect for enjoying gelato outdoors.

  • Generous sampling allowed, making it easy to try new flavors.

  • Prices are on the higher side, especially compared to portion sizes.

  • Limited indoor seating; can get crowded during peak times.

What Is It?

Pitango Gelato & Coffee in Fells Point is a stylish gem known for its handcrafted, organic gelato and locally roasted coffee. This charming little spot serves up a variety of flavors that draw inspiration from traditional Italian recipes and offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for dessert lovers.

The Experience

You stroll along the picturesque streets of Fells Point, the sun casting a warm glow as you approach Pitango Gelato & Coffee. The tantalizing aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air, promising an indulgent treat as you step inside this quaint gelato shop. The friendly staff greets you warmly, eager to let you sample their unique, artisan flavors. You can’t resist trying the pistachio, its rich, creamy texture bursting with flavor just like what you'd find in Italy, and alongside it, the dark chocolate sorbet offers a refreshing, yet decadent contrast.

As you savor the delightful gelato, you notice patrons around you enjoying their scoops, with a few sitting outside in the quaint plaza, soaking up the atmosphere. The shop may be small, but its charm is palpable, echoing the vibrant culture of Fells Point. You decide to enjoy your treat outside, where the gentle breeze carries with it the sounds of laughter and music from nearby bars and restaurants, creating the perfect backdrop for your gelato experience.

Your taste buds dance as you dig into the creamy melt of Gianduja, a heavenly blend of hazelnut and chocolate. Each lick brings back fond memories of your travels, and you find yourself contemplating how to try more flavors. With so many intriguing options like the refreshing Mojito sorbet or exotic Cardamom flavor, how could you not come back for another round?

As you finish up, you overhear other guests raving about their unique combinations, proving that this spot truly excels in offering something special for everyone. It's not just about the gelato—it's about the experience, the memories created while sharing laughs over delectable dessert. You leave feeling happy and full, already planning your next visit to Pitango in this beautiful corner of Baltimore.

When to Go

If you're looking to avoid the crowds at Pitango Gelato & Coffee, consider visiting earlier in the afternoon or on weekday evenings. Many guests find that the busiest times are typically around 7 PM to 9 PM, so swinging by earlier can give you a more relaxed experience without the hustle and bustle.

6

Sydney's Ice Creams

3432 Belair Rd

Baltimore, MD 21213

(410) 804-5871

Pros and Cons

  • Delicious homemade ice cream with unique flavors.

  • Friendly and welcoming service from the owner.

  • Incredible homemade waffle cones that elevate the experience.

  • Cute and cozy atmosphere in the Belair-Edison community.

  • Affordable prices and generous portions.

  • Limited seating can make it hard to find a spot.

  • Occasional cleanliness issues with tables not always being wiped down.

  • Might experience a wait if arriving close to closing hours.

What Is It?

Sydney's Ice Creams is a delightful ice cream shop located in the heart of Belair-Edison, Baltimore. Known for its homemade ice cream novelties, this charming spot features a rotating selection of unique and traditional flavors that keep locals coming back for more. With personalized service and a cozy atmosphere, it’s easy to see why many consider it one of the best ice cream shops in the area.

The Experience

Walking into Sydney's Ice Creams is like stepping into a sweet sanctuary. The inviting aroma of freshly made waffle cones welcomes you as you step inside. You take a moment to browse the colorful flavors on display. From the rich butter pecan swirling with whole pecans to the creamy banana pudding peppered with bits of Nilla Wafers, the choices are tantalizing. After sampling a few flavors, you finally settle on the peach and biscuit ice cream, a favorite among many guests. The moment the scoop hits your tongue, you're hit with a burst of flavor that’s a perfect blend of sweetness and nostalgia.

While enjoying the delightful ice cream, you can't help but overhear the owner chatting amiably with other patrons, creating a warm atmosphere that makes you feel at home. The vibe is incredibly welcoming, with smiles all around as families and friends dig into their cones and sandwiches. Someone nearby recommends the cookie ice cream sandwich, and you instantly make a mental note to try it on your next visit!

As you relish every last bite of your peach and biscuit delight, you glance at the beautiful homemade waffles cones, a standout in their own right. They have a delicious caramelized flavor, unlike any you’ve experienced before. Patrons rave about how once you have a cone here, nothing else can compare! Inspired by this, you decide to grab a pint to take home, knowing that it’s going to be more than just a summer treat.

After finishing your ice cream, you take a moment to appreciate the shop’s quirky charm, decorated with a local flair that adds to its homely feel. Patrons chat happily among themselves, and you find it hard to leave this delightful little corner of Baltimore, already plotting your return to try more unique flavors like blackberry mandarin or to snag one of those famous ice cream sandwiches.

7

The Charmery Hampden

801 W 36th St

Baltimore, MD 21211

(410) 814-0493

Pros and Cons

  • Great variety of unique and seasonal flavors.

  • Friendly and welcoming staff eager to help with flavor choices.

  • Vibrant atmosphere perfect for families and friends.

  • Always rotating flavors and in-house-made waffle cones.

  • Fun community-oriented events and promotions.

  • Higher prices compared to other options, which some find steep.

  • Inconsistent scoop sizes, with complaints about smaller portions.

  • Limited indoor seating, making it feel crowded at peak times.

  • Some flavors may not meet everyone's taste preferences, feeling overly sweet.

What Is It?

The Charmery Hampden is a delightful ice cream shop in Baltimore, dedicated to bringing happiness through uniquely handcrafted ice cream. Here, you'll find a playful mix of seasonal flavors, specialty sundaes, and enticing milkshakes—all made from high-quality ingredients and inspired by the local maker community. Whether you crave traditional tastes or adventurous combinations, this shop is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with its dynamic offerings.

The Experience

Walking into The Charmery Hampden feels like stepping into a cheerful candyland, where the air is filled with scrumptious scents that make your mouth water. The friendly staff greets you with big smiles, ready to guide you through an enticing menu of creative flavors. You decide to treat yourself to a scoop of the Old Bay Caramel—a local favorite that uniquely captures the essence of Baltimore with a twist. As you take that first heavenly bite, the blend of sweet and savory dances on your taste buds, leaving you pleasantly surprised.

Having a knack for adventure, you fancy trying another flavor, so you opt for the Coconut Chai vegan option. The texture is perfectly creamy, and the spiced notes make it feel like a comforting hug on a warm day. You can't help but admire the quirky, ever-changing flavor offerings that are crafted right in-house and often inspired by local ingredients. Almost everyone seems to be digging into delightful ice cream sandwiches or sumptuous sundaes, and friendly laughter fills the cozy space.

Seated on a sunny bench outside, you savor the ice cream while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Hampden. Kids run past, giggling and licking their cones while couples share laughs, creating a sense of community around shared joy. You overhear other patrons recommending the Maryland Mud and the limited-time seasonal flavors, each experience just as unique as the next. Your ice cream-in-hand makes this moment feel like the perfect way to cap off your day.

Before leaving, you notice the spin-the-wheel promotion at the register and decide to give it a go. To your delight, you win a free cone! This little surprise adds an extra cherry on top of your memorable visit. With excitement bubbling inside you, you promise yourself to return soon, eager to explore more of what The Charmery has to offer.

When to Go

For a slightly quieter visit to The Charmery, consider going earlier in the evening, around 5 PM or even during weekday afternoons. This way, you can enjoy the unique flavors with a bit more breathing room before the post-dinner crowd rolls in.

8

The Charmery Ice Cream Factory

1700 W 41st St #400

Baltimore, MD 21211

(443) 759-4905

Pros and Cons

  • Handcrafted, unique flavors including local inspirations.

  • Fun and engaging atmosphere for families and kids.

  • Free ice cream factory tours available on weekends.

  • Friendly and helpful staff who are eager to assist.

  • Plenty of space to enjoy your treats with quirky decorations.

  • Longer wait times during peak hours, especially on busy days.

  • Occasional unavailability of certain popular flavors.

  • Location can be difficult to find for first-time visitors.

  • Limited sugar-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

What Is It?

The Charmery Ice Cream Factory is all about bringing joy through their innovative, handcrafted ice cream. Located in the heart of Baltimore, this spot offers a fun and eclectic atmosphere where visitors can indulge in a rotation of seasonal and experimental flavors, while also enjoying classic favorites. With a focus on using thoughtfully sourced ingredients, The Charmery aims to redefine the ice cream experience for everyone who walks through their doors.

The Experience

As you step inside The Charmery Ice Cream Factory, the playful decor instantly sets a vibrant mood. The space is roomy and inviting, with charming decorations that hint at the whimsical flavors awaiting your taste buds. You stroll past displays of unique flavors like Old Bay Caramel and Maryland Mud, which pique your curiosity and get your mouth watering. The friendly staff greets you, ready to help with flavor recommendations or let you try as many options as you need to make a decision.

After a few samples, you finally settle on a scoop of that intriguing Old Bay Caramel paired with a rich, chocolatey creation. Each bite brings a delightful explosion of flavor, perfectly balancing sweet and savory. You take a moment to admire the creativity in the other flavors, from 'Saturday Morning Cartoons' to seasonal specials, all crafted with care and imagination. You can’t help but feel like a kid again in this paradise of frozen treats.

The delightful experience doesn’t stop at just scoops of ice cream. You notice families and kids enjoying their time, heading to a mini scavenger hunt set up for parties—laughter fills the air. Plus, the free ice cream factory tours on Saturdays suddenly pique your interest. You envision yourself walking through their very own freezer and catching some behind-the-scenes magic. It gets better; everyone seems to be having a blast, and you feel that same excitement too!

As you finish your ice cream, you feel the urge to linger a little longer. You spot a vintage rocket ride and are instantly transported back to your childhood. The vibe is jovial, and the atmosphere wraps around you like a comforting embrace. You’re not just enjoying ice cream; you’re reliving those cherished moments, surrounded by friends and family, making memories that will surely last a lifetime at The Charmery.

The Glorious Places logo.
Raising up exceptional local businesses.
Made in Fort Collins, Colorado
Copyright © 2024 Glorious Places. All rights reserved.