The Best Ice Cream in Boulder, Colorado

by Eric Farran

Boulder, Colorado, is a paradise for ice cream lovers! Whether you're craving classic flavors, dairy-free options, or unique handcrafted creations, Boulder’s local ice cream shops offer something for everyone. With fresh ingredients, creative flavors, and a commitment to quality, these top ice cream spots are must-visits for locals and tourists alike. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best ice cream in Boulder!


1. Sweet Cow – The Local Favorite

Location: 2628 Broadway & 669 S Broadway, Boulder, CO
Best For: Rich, creamy, locally made ice cream with fun flavors
Price Range: $$

Sweet Cow is a Boulder staple, known for its super creamy, small-batch ice cream made with the highest quality ingredients. Their rotating menu always features fun, creative flavors, including Ozo Coffee, Dutch Chocolate, and Salted Oreo. Plus, their homemade waffle cones and friendly service make every visit special.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Locally made, high-quality ingredients

  • Fun seasonal flavors and classics

  • Eco-friendly commitment – compostable packaging and local sourcing

Pro Tip: Try their legendary Salted Oreo flavor—it’s a fan favorite! And don’t skip their ice cream sandwiches, made with fresh cookies for the perfect treat!


2. Glacier Ice Cream – 100+ Flavors to Choose From

Location: 3133 28th St, Boulder, CO
Best For: Huge flavor selection, premium homemade ice cream
Price Range: $$

If variety is what you’re after, Glacier Ice Cream is the place to be! With over 100 flavors in rotation, they have something for every taste bud. From Butter Pecan and Rocky Road to exotic flavors like Green Tea and Coconut Almond Fudge, Glacier is a local institution for ice cream lovers.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • One of the largest flavor selections in Colorado

  • Handmade ice cream, gelato, and dairy-free options

  • Great mix-ins and toppings

Pro Tip: Try the Funky Donkey for a chocolate peanut butter explosion—or go for their rich and creamy Bing Cherry flavor!


3. Lucky’s Creamery – Small-Batch Perfection

Location: 3980 Broadway, Boulder, CO
Best For: Handcrafted, small-batch ice cream with unique flavors
Price Range: $$

Located in the same shopping center as Lucky’s Market, Lucky’s Creamery is a hidden gem serving up premium, handcrafted ice cream made in small batches. Their flavors rotate frequently and include locally inspired ingredients, making every visit a new experience.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Handcrafted in small batches for top quality

  • Unique, rotating flavors you won’t find anywhere else

  • Locally owned and operated

Pro Tip: Lucky’s Creamery has some of the best cakes and pastries in town, too! Try their baked goods while you’re there!


4. Fior di Latte – Artisan Gelato and Sorbetto

Location: 1433 Pearl St, Boulder, CO
Best For: Authentic Italian-style gelato and sorbet
Price Range: $$

For a taste of Italy in Boulder, Fior di Latte serves up authentic gelato and sorbetto, made fresh daily. Using real fruit, nuts, and high-quality milk, this small gelato shop creates silky-smooth flavors like Pistachio, Stracciatella, and Mango Sorbet.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Authentic Italian gelato and dairy-free sorbetto

  • Fresh, natural ingredients—no artificial flavors

  • Great location on Pearl Street for a post-shopping treat

Pro Tip: Pair their Dark Chocolate gelato with Raspberry Sorbetto for an incredible flavor combo!


5. Gelato Boy – Ultra Creamy Gelato with a Modern Twist

Location: 1433 Pearl St, Boulder, CO
Best For: Smooth, flavorful gelato with a modern twist
Price Range: $$

For those who love rich and creamy gelato, Gelato Boy is a must-visit. Their handcrafted gelato is made with organic dairy and natural ingredients, and they offer a mix of classic and experimental flavors. Try Brown Butter Pecan, Stracciatella, or Vegan Chocolate Sorbet for a truly indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Super creamy gelato made with organic dairy

  • Unique seasonal and dairy-free flavors

  • Modern, sleek shop on Pearl Street

Pro Tip: Grab a gelato and take a stroll down Pearl Street—it’s the perfect way to enjoy Boulder!


6. Heaven Creamery – Guilt-Free, Premium Ice Cream

Location: 1600 28th St, Boulder, CO
Best For: Healthy, all-natural ice cream and sorbet
Price Range: $$

For a health-conscious twist on ice cream, Heaven Creamery serves up high-protein, low-sugar, and keto-friendly flavors alongside their traditional ice cream. Their unique approach means you can indulge without the guilt, with flavors like Avocado Honey, Coconut Charcoal, and Protein Peanut Butter Cup.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Healthier ice cream options with low sugar and high protein

  • Keto, vegan, and dairy-free choices

  • Creative flavors and high-quality ingredients

Pro Tip: Try their Avocado Honey or the Coconut Charcoal for a unique and refreshing treat!


Final Thoughts: Where to Get the Best Ice Cream in Boulder

No matter your ice cream preference, Boulder has a shop that will satisfy your cravings. Whether you want classic flavors, creamy gelato, or unique small-batch creations, these top ice cream spots offer something for every sweet tooth.

  • Looking for a local favorite? Sweet Cow and Glacier are the go-to spots.

  • Love gelato? Fior di Latte and Gelato Boy serve the best in town.

  • Want a hidden gem? Lucky’s Creamery and Heaven Creamery are worth the visit.

Pro Tip: For the ultimate Boulder experience, grab an ice cream cone and take a stroll down Pearl Street or through the scenic CU Boulder campus!

 

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