Where to Find the Best Ice Cream Near Columbia

Known as the unofficial start to summer, Memorial Day weekend is meant for beach trips, barbecues and—our favorite—ice cream.

Columbia Patch readers shared their favorite local spots to get the frozen sweet treat. We’ve rounded up the top reader picks below.

Add these to your Memorial Day plans:

1. The Meadows (Columbia) — The famous frozen custard is an original family recipe that is made fresh on site everyday. Enjoy the custard as a cone or swirled into a shake, sundae or smoothie. It’s no surprise people are ditching their store-bought ice cream for handmade pints from The Meadows.
2. Soft Stuff (Ellicott City) — This family-owned creamery serves soft-serve ice cream that is perfectly thick and creamy. The newly-renovated shop now offers more seating—meaning, more places to enjoy your twist cone with rainbow sprinkles.
3. ScoopAHHdeedoo (Ellicott City) — Serving up Taharka Bros. hard style ice cream, this ice cream parlor is a local favorite. With so many unique flavors, you might have trouble choosing just one. Tip: Try the Berger Cookie flavor.
4. Cindy’s Soft Serve (Elkridge) — Don’t let the long line scare you, Cindy’s is worth the wait. A favorite among both locals and tourists, this ice cream shop draws attention for their creamy cones and milkshakes.
5. Opie’s Soft Serve & Snowballs (Catonsville) — What beats a classic soft-serve cone on a hot summer day? Choose from the endless topping varieties or opt for an ice cream cookie sandwich. (Yes, please!) Opie’s is also known for their classic snowballs that come in over 30 tasty flavors.
6. Tutti Frutti (Columbia) — A traditional self-serve frozen yogurt shop with an abundance of toppings and flavors.

What would you add to the list?

Related: Dine al Fresco: Where to Dine Outdoors in Columbia