The 5 Best Ice Cream Spots Around Lake Tahoe Region

Ice cream may not solve everything, but it does make a strong case for itself on a hot day or after a long hike. In South Lake Tahoe, the frozen treats go far beyond the basics — scoops are crafted with care, flavors reflect local character, and the cones are often as memorable. Whether you’re into classic sundaes, artisanal gelato or a soft-serve swirl after a swim, the Best of Tahoe celebrates the go-to spots where dessert meets summer and memories stick like drips on your hand.

Aloha Ice Cream

Aloha Ice Cream has become something of a rite of passage for locals and visitors looking for their scoop of Tahoe summer. Family-owned and operated, this ice cream shop delivers a friendly, nostalgic vibe with a menu that leans into variety and freshness. Alongside traditional flavors, you’ll find house specialties, rotating seasonal creations and options for dietary restrictions. There’s an old-school charm to the way they serve, and it doesn’t hurt that they also stock homemade fudge, hand-dipped chocolate bananas and other retro confections.

Camp Richardson

The Ice Cream Parlor at Camp Richardson is part of a broader experience — one that starts with adventure and ends with a cone. Located near the marina and bike trails, it’s the kind of place that draws beachgoers, families and day-trippers for one last treat before heading home. The atmosphere blends lodge-style comfort with vacation energy, and the portions are no joke. The lines can get long in summer, but few complain — part of the charm is chatting in the shade while deciding between a double scoop or waffle cone.

Art Of Gelato

Tucked into the Shops at Heavenly Village, Art of Gelato brings European technique to Tahoe terrain. With flavors like pistachio, stracciatella and seasonal fruit blends, the small-batch gelato here is made using traditional Italian methods and premium ingredients. What stands out isn’t just the authenticity but the attention to detail — smooth texture, clean presentation and a menu that invites experimentation. It’s the kind of spot where even a basic scoop feels elevated.

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