8 Ice Cream Parlors in Florida Off the Beaten Path

Florida’s heat calls for a cold treat, but sometimes the best scoops hide far from typical tourist routes. I’ve spent the last year asking locals, following foodie tips, and exploring backroads to find places that feel like discoveries.

Each of these ice cream parlors offers something unexpected, whether it’s a wild flavor, a quirky backstory, or a community vibe you won’t forget. If you’re looking to try something new, this list will take you beyond the ordinary.

1. Let’s Chill Homemade Ice Cream (Coral Springs)

Step off the bustling street into Let’s Chill, where the air brims with the scent of fresh cream and sugar. This isn’t your average neighborhood ice cream stop, every batch is mixed in-house, and the flavors rotate with the seasons and local inspiration. I once caught a whiff of their toasted coconut, and had to ask if they were baking a cake. They weren’t. That’s just how rich the ice cream is.

Families linger here for more than just dessert. The décor feels bright and modern, with vivid chairs and relaxed tables that encourage you to stay and chat. Every detail, down to the homemade sprinkles and signature ice cream cakes, is handled with care. Let’s Chill has carved out a spot as a low-key legend, its regulars rarely raise their voices, but their loyalty speaks volumes.

A fun fact: the owners started this journey after a family trip abroad, hoping to bring a bit of European-style indulgence home. If you’ve ever wondered how a true community favorite feels, Let’s Chill will show you, one scoop at a time.

2. Mayday Ice Cream (St. Augustine + statewide)

If you’re a fan of stories, Mayday Ice Cream serves them with every scoop. The shop’s aviation theme honors WWII pilots, with little design touches, like propeller ceiling fans and flight maps on the walls, that spark curiosity. Their menu is a journey of its own, highlighted by flavors like “The Aviator,” which combines Nutella, Biscoff, and hazelnuts in a way that feels both classic and bold.

Mayday’s magic is in its commitment to craft. Everything, from the waffle cones to the sprinkles, is made right there in house. You’ll notice the difference at first bite, each texture feels intentional, and the taste is never dull. Local fans love that these shops pop up in unexpected corners across the state, giving more Floridians access to their playful scoops.

Did you know the founders are childhood friends who shared a love for adventure? Their goal: make ice cream as memorable as their favorite family road trips. So, if you spot a Mayday, don’t just keep driving; your new favorite flavor might be waiting.

3. Southern Craft Creamery (Marianna)

Southern Craft Creamery stands as a quiet testament to Florida’s rural charm. Located in Marianna, it’s the kind of place where the story behind your scoop matters as much as the flavor. Every pint draws on milk from the family’s Jersey cows, rich, golden, and ideal for churning out something exceptional.

The Tupelo honey ice cream is a local legend. There’s a light floral note, with a gentle sweetness that lingers just long enough. I chatted with a regular who drives an hour just for a taste, insisting nothing else compares. The small staff knows most visitors by name, and they’re always eager to recommend their favorite batch.

A detail I appreciate: even the décor nods to the region’s agricultural roots. If you want to connect with Florida’s countryside and taste a little bit of its history, this stop feels both genuine and welcoming. Southern Craft Creamery delivers comfort with every scoop.

4. Neighbors Ice Cream Parlor (Port Orange)

Neighbors Ice Cream Parlor feels like it was lifted from a storybook. Set in a cozy bungalow on a quiet street, its homey porch and quirky sign invite you to slow down and savor the moment. Inside, the walls pop with color, and the menu offers a rotating selection, 36 flavors at any given time, each crafted with organic dyes and a dash of local pride.

Curious about “Purple Cow” or butterbeer floats? You’re not alone. Regulars rave about the creativity, but what sets Neighbors apart is the community feel. I once found myself trading flavor tips with strangers-turned-friends in line, all eager to try the latest batch.

Fun fact: the owners host occasional neighborhood ice cream socials, turning an ordinary day into a celebration. If you believe every town needs a gathering spot, you’ll feel right at home on Neighbors’ porch, spoon in hand.

5. TJ’s Chilling Treats (Navarre)

For those road-tripping along Florida’s Panhandle, TJ’s Chilling Treats is an energetic pit stop. The place stays lively all summer, thanks to its playful menu and beachy vibes. Their claim to fame? Flavors like the Smurf Cone, a blend of blueberry and raspberry that turns tongues blue and spirits brighter.

Families flock here, often fresh from the sand, looking for a reward after a sun-drenched day. The owners make sure everyone is welcome, with plenty of seating and a knack for remembering regulars’ favorite picks. Kids love the ever-changing lineup of flavors, while parents appreciate the affordable prices and cozy feel.

A quirky detail: the original owner still comes in to hand-decorate the chalkboard menus. If you’re after a spot where joy is as plentiful as sprinkles, TJ’s Chilling Treats is a must-stop in Navarre.

6. The Revolution Ice Cream Co. (Brandon)

Hidden in Brandon, The Revolution Ice Cream Co. feels like a secret club for flavor explorers. The shop’s energy is laid-back but creative, with local art on the walls and a playlist that keeps the mood upbeat. When I visited, I watched a couple debate whether “Pineapple Upside Down Cake” or “Callie’s Hotcakes” was stranger, in the best way.

This isn’t a place for plain vanilla. Every scoop is a conversation starter, and the staff encourages you to mix and match. The vibe is unpretentious, making it easy to try something new without pressure or pretense.

Fun fact: the shop began in a small trailer at local markets, earning a cult following before landing in a brick-and-mortar location. If you enjoy charting your own path (and taste), add Revolution to your list.

7. Richloam General Store’s Ice Cream Parlor (Brooksville)

Step back in time at the Richloam General Store’s Ice Cream Parlor, just outside Brooksville. The creaky floorboards and shelves lined with homemade jams set the stage for a different kind of ice cream break. There’s an old-fashioned counter tucked beside the grocery shelves, where scoops are served alongside bits of local history.

I once chatted with the owner about the original register, still in use after all these decades. Regulars stop in for the ice cream but leave with armfuls of pickles, preserves, or curious antiques. It’s a place where stories are swapped as often as spoons.

A fun tidbit: the store has operated since the 1920s, making it a living relic amid the pines. For a taste of nostalgia with your treat, Richloam General Store won’t disappoint.

8. Wildflower Ice Cream Shop (St. Petersburg)

Wildflower Ice Cream Shop thrives in a snug spot in St. Petersburg, where soft serve gets a creative, modern twist. The shop’s hand-painted wildflower mural signals its commitment to local color and flavor. You’ll find both dairy and non-dairy options, making it an easy pick for groups with mixed tastes or dietary needs.

I love how the owner experiments with seasonal ingredients, producing swirls that change every month. One visit might bring you lavender honey, the next a vegan key lime. Customers gather on the sidewalk seats, debating which flavor to try next or just soaking in the neighborhood energy.

A fun detail: Wildflower regularly collaborates with nearby bakeries to offer limited-edition toppings. If you crave a scoop with plenty of personality (and heart), this St. Pete spot belongs on your radar.