When summer temperatures climb into the 90s and beyond, Boulder locals know exactly where to go for relief. After a morning hike beneath the Flatirons, a tubing adventure on Boulder Creek, or an afternoon at the Boulder Reservoir, nothing satisfies quite like an ice-cold scoop of homemade ice cream or a refreshing handcrafted drink.
Fortunately, Boulder is home to some of Colorado’s finest dessert shops, offering everything from rich small-batch ice cream and authentic Italian gelato to sparkling lemonades and fruit-filled sorbets. Whether you’re looking for a classic waffle cone or a dairy-free frozen treat, these local favorites have something for everyone.
Sweet Cow: A Boulder Favorite
One of the city’s most beloved ice cream shops is Sweet Cow, with locations at 2628 Broadway in North Boulder and 669 South Broadway in South Boulder. Known for its small-batch ice cream made with high-quality ingredients, Sweet Cow has earned a loyal following among Boulder residents.
Popular flavors include Dutch Chocolate, Cookies & Cream, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, and seasonal specialties that rotate throughout the year. Their homemade waffle cones, sundaes, and ice cream sandwiches make every visit feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re celebrating after a hike or simply cooling off after work, Sweet Cow delivers a classic Boulder experience.
Glacier Homemade Ice Cream & Gelato
For decades, Glacier Homemade Ice Cream has been a Boulder institution. Located at 3133 28th Street, Glacier has created more than 1,000 different flavors over the years while offering approximately 80 rotating selections at any given time…