It’s always scorching hot in Orlando, and sometimes you just need a delicious, icy treat to cool down and satisfy your sweet tooth. In this guide, we’ll explore the top ice cream spots in Disney World, where you can find the tastiest frozen snacks to enjoy during your vacation.
EPCOT
L’Artisan des Glaces
Located in EPCOT’s France pavilion, L’Artisan des Glaces is a must-visit spot when you stroll through the World Showcase. On a hot day, it’s the perfect place to start. Here, you’ll find an incredible selection of unique, homemade ice creams and sorbets. They even offer unconventional ways to enjoy their treats, like in a toasted Brioche bun or in a martini glass with your choice of liquor. One standout item is the Croque Glace—a scoop of ice cream with your favorite sauce, pressed warm in a homemade brioche. If you prefer gelato, they have a wide variety of flavors to choose from. Be sure to check out their seasonal creations as well!
Gelateria Toscana
Right in front of the Italy Pavilion, Gelateria Toscana offers delectable gelato at EPCOT. The stand itself blends in seamlessly with its surroundings, evoking a charming and classy atmosphere. While the prices may be a bit high, the taste is worth it. The Affogato Espresso Gelato is a simple yet powerful combination of bold espresso, creamy vanilla gelato, and crisp Amaretto cookies. If you’re not in the mood for gelato, they have a variety of delicious pizza options as well!
Disney Springs
Haagen-Dazs Kiosk
With so many ice cream spots in Disney Springs, it’s easy to overlook the Haagen-Dazs kiosk. While they offer some scrumptious options like the Dazzler sundaes, they lack the uniqueness you’d expect from a Disney treat. If you’re looking for something more extraordinary, you might want to explore other options.
Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill
If you’re craving gelato, Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill is the place to go. Located in Disney Springs, this outdoor counter service option offers a fantastic range of gelato creations that you won’t find anywhere else. One standout item is the Salted Caramel Banana Pudding—a delightful combination of banana pudding, banana chunks, vanilla wafers, and a scoop of salted caramel gelato. The flavors are rich and complement each other perfectly. Keep an eye on their seasonal menu for even more tasty surprises!
Vivoli il Gelato
Don’t let Vivoli il Gelato’s inconspicuous location fool you. Located near Wine Bar George and Joffrey’s corner coffee shop, this gelato spot is a hidden gem. They offer both classic and bold flavors, like their famous Bombolatos—a gelato sandwiched inside a warm Italian donut. While some flavors may seem unconventional, they always manage to impress. One seasonal favorite is the Peanut Butter Explosion. Their menu changes regularly, so make sure to stop by and see what flavors they have during your visit.
Swirls on the Water
Swirls on the Water recently replaced another snack spot in Disney Springs, and it offers not only classic Dole Whip but also unique flavors and even Dole Whip flights. Located just behind Goofy’s Candy Company, Swirls on the Water serves soft-serve swirls, specialty flavors, and floats. One standout item is the 50th Celebration Cone, featuring DOLE Whip Lemon and Cookie Dough soft-serve swirled together in a cone with ear-idescent sprinkles and a white chocolate Mickey decoration. If you can’t decide on just one flavor, try the Dole Whip flight. Another must-try is their signature DOLE Whip Nachos—waffle cone chips topped with DOLE Whip, mango boba pearls, fresh pineapple, strawberry sauce, whipped cream, and rainbow sprinkles. Every bite is bursting with fun flavors!
Marketplace Snacks
Previously housed at Aristocrepes, The Bubble Waffle has found a new home at Disney Spring’s Marketplace Snacks. Here, you can indulge in five different Bubble Waffle sundaes inspired by the Fab Five characters. For a tart and fruity option, try the Donald Lemon & Blueberry Waffle Sundae. If you’re a chocolate lover, the Mickey Cookie Waffle Sundae is the perfect choice. Each sundae is affordably priced at $8.99, so you can enjoy these delicious treats without breaking the bank.
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop
As you walk past the World of Disney gift shop in Disney Springs, the sweet and warm aromas of Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop will draw you in. A favorite among many, the Crissy Field Cookie Bits Sundae is a must-try. It features a combination of vanilla and cookies-and-cream ice cream, a generous serving of homemade hot fudge, and big, soft, buttery, half-baked chocolate chip cookies crumbled on top. It’s an indulgence worth waiting for, as this ice cream spot can get quite busy.
Salt & Straw
Opened in April 2022 on the West Side of Disney Springs, Salt & Straw offers an entirely new ice cream experience. Their unique flavors, made with local, organic, and sustainable ingredients, will delight your taste buds. From Mathilde’s Hibiscus and Coconut Sherbet to Honey Lavender and Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper, their selection is anything but ordinary. They also feature special monthly flavors, so you can always expect something new and exciting. Step out of your comfort zone and try some of their more unconventional combinations, like Cinnamon and Honey Fried Chicken or Deviled Egg Custard with Smoked Black Tea.
Magic Kingdom
Plaza Ice Cream Parlor
The quintessential Disney ice cream experience can be found at Plaza Ice Cream Parlor on Magic Kingdom’s Main Street, U.S.A. A classic favorite is the Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich, and if you ask the Cast Members, they might still have the peanut butter drizzle available. Alternatively, you can opt for a traditional ice cream cookie sandwich with toppings like hot fudge or caramel. While indulging in these delightful treats, you’ll also be treated to a magnificent view of Cinderella Castle from the outdoor seating area.
Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies
Located in Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland, Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies offers standard soft-serve sundaes, cups, and floats. It may not be the most memorable spot, but they do have seasonal offerings that are worth checking out. For instance, they once served a special 50th Anniversary treat in a bathtub—both the sundae and the tub were a hit!
Sunshine Tree Terrace
If you’re a fan of citrus flavors, head over to Sunshine Tree Terrace in Adventureland. Here, you’ll find a delightful assortment of soft-serve, DOLE Whip, and float options. The highlight is the unique Citrus Swirl, made with frozen orange juice, which sets it apart from the orange DOLE Whip found elsewhere. While availability can be hit or miss, it’s worth checking the menu to see if it’s available during your visit.
Storybook Treats
As you venture into Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland, make a stop at Storybook Treats. This quick-service location offers a selection of standard soft-serve ice cream treats. However, what sets them apart is their exclusive flavors or floats themed around beloved Disney characters. For the 50th Celebration, they introduced some delectable Seven Dwarfs-inspired goodies. Currently, the Snow White Cone, made with DOLE Whip lemon, is a definite must-try. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy after a ride on Seven Dwarfs Mine Train!
Aloha Isle
Aloha Isle is the original DOLE Whip spot in Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland. This colorful and tropical quick-service stop offers classic pineapple DOLE Whip and DOLE Whip Floats. However, they also serve some extraordinary treats like the Tropical Serenade, featuring Pineapple-Orange-Guava Juice, coconut soft-serve, and an upside-down pineapple cake pop. The combination of tropical flavors and coconut soft serve will transport you to paradise.
Disney Resorts
Beaches and Cream Soda Shop
Step back in time to a classic 50s soda fountain shop at Beaches and Cream Soda Shop in Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Whether you have a reservation or order from the walk-up window, you’re in for a treat. The No Way Jose Sundae is a favorite among visitors—a delightful combination of chocolate and vanilla ice cream, peanut butter, hot fudge, peanut butter and chocolate morsels, whipped cream, and a cherry on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the famous Kitchen Sink—a massive sundae that serves four people for $35. It features scoops of vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, cookies and cream, and mint chocolate chip ice cream, topped with an array of mouthwatering toppings.
The Fountain
If you don’t have reservations at Beaches & Cream but still want that 50s soda fountain shop experience, head to The Fountain at Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Resorts. Here, you can indulge in a variety of shakes and sundaes. From classic vanilla to the Grasshopper with Minty Chip Ice Cream, there’s something for everyone. One must-try is the Caramel Apple Sundae—a heavenly combination of flavors that will delight your taste buds. The Fountain is a hidden gem and a fantastic option if you’re looking for an alternative to Beaches and Cream.
BoardWalk Ice Cream
For an ice cream crawl around the EPCOT area resorts, don’t miss BoardWalk Ice Cream at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. While they offer standard ice cream options, they also have some standout treats. The Kids’ Mickey Mouse Sundae, priced at $4.99, is a popular choice—featuring a scoop of your favorite ice cream flavor, chocolate cookies (Oreos), and a cherry. For the peanut butter enthusiasts, the Thundering Surf Peanut Butter and Chocolate Sundae is a must-try. It combines chocolate and vanilla ice cream with peanut butter and chocolate chips, whipped cream, and a cherry.
Pineapple Lanai
Located outside Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Pineapple Lanai is a quick-service location that offers the classic pineapple DOLE Whip. However, they also get creative and introduce seasonal treats. Keep an eye out for limited edition flavors and creations that are sure to surprise and delight. There’s something special about enjoying a DOLE Whip at the Polynesian, making it an unforgettable experience.
Hollywood Studios
Dinosaur Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction
If you’re still in Hollywood Studios and in need of a cool treat, head over to Dinosaur Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction on Echo Lake. This iconic spot is hard to miss, with its giant dinosaur serving up classic soft-serve treats and Mickey Ice Cream Bars. But it’s not just the ice cream that makes this place special—it’s also the history it brings to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Please note that this location may be closed at times, so be sure to check if it’s available during your visit.
Hollywood Scoops
After surviving the Tower of Terror in Hollywood Studios, reward yourself with a hand-scooped ice cream cone from Hollywood Scoops. Indulge in sundaes, seasonal shakes, or their famous explosion shake—a decadent treat topped with extravagant extras like mini-bundt cakes or donuts. Walking around with one of these extravagant shakes might even make you feel like a celebrity, as other guests inquire where you got it from!
Animal Kingdom
Dino-Bite Snacks
Nestled in DinoLand U.S.A., Dino-Bite Snacks has become a beloved spot for ice cream lovers. Their quirky retro facade and small selection of sundaes, floats, and ice cream scoops make this place stand out. However, what truly steals the show are their ice cream cookie sandwiches. Freshly baked cookies paired with creamy vanilla ice cream—what more could you ask for? Dino-Bite Snacks also offers seasonal ice cream sandwiches that go above and beyond the norm. Just make sure not to order one right before your dinner reservation—you might find yourself too full!
Anandapur Ice Cream Truck
Once you’ve conquered the infamous Yeti on Expedition Everest, treat yourself to a soft-serve ice cream from Anandapur Ice Cream Truck in Animal Kingdom’s Asia. You’ll never believe you can order ice cream from such an incredible work of art. Alongside the usual vanilla and chocolate soft-serve flavors, Anandapur offers seasonal specials like the Yeti Sundae. This delicious treat features chocolate soft-serve topped with vanilla soft-serve, blue cake crumbs, sugar, sweet snowflakes, and a chocolate Yeti Image. While their traditional menu may be standard, keep an eye out for those special treats—they’re worth it!
Tamu Tamu Refreshments
Located in Animal Kingdom’s Africa, Tamu Tamu Refreshments is a hidden gem with a tucked-away courtyard where you can enjoy your ice cream treat in peace. They serve specialty DOLE Whip floats that can be spiked with coconut rum for an extra kick. A must-try is the Simba Sunset—a delightful blend of pineapple DOLE Whip topped with watermelon, strawberry, and coconut-flavored syrup. This treat is served in a slightly larger cup than usual, giving you even more DOLE Whip for your money.
Water Parks
Happy Landings/ I.C. Expeditions/Snack Shack
We’re grouping the ice cream stops from Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach together because they offer similar options. Happy Landings and I.C. Expeditions serve some incredible treats, including the massive Sand Pail Sundae. This signature sundae features chocolate and vanilla soft-serve ice cream, waffle pieces, sprinkles, cookie pieces, hot fudge, caramel sauce, whipped cream, and a cherry on top—all served in a giant bucket with a shovel. It’s not just ice cream; it’s also a beach toy! While enjoying your sundae, make sure to look out for their other limited-time offerings. Additionally, Snack Shack at Typhoon Lagoon is the home of the Hei Hei Cone and other delightful treats.
Are you craving ice cream yet? We hope this guide has helped you decide where to find the perfect frozen treat during your visit to Disney World. Remember, there’s no wrong way to enjoy ice cream, so indulge in these delightful snacks and create unforgettable memories. Don’t forget to share your favorite ice cream spot with us in the comments!
