As the temperature is going up, so is the desire for ice cream. But where are the best spots to enjoy a sweet summer treat? There’s a huge variety of unique ice cream spots around Arlington, sometimes making it hard to choose. However, there is no need to fret, as we have compiled a list of all the best locations.

Carvel Ice Cream and Bakery:
The roots of this store go way back, with owner Tom Carvel known for inventing soft serve ice cream in 1939. With only three locations in Virginia, we are lucky to have a Carvel in Arlington. Carvel specializes in soft serve, but also makes decorative cakes, regular ice cream, cookies and more. Carvel is a perfect spot for a late night sweet treat. In the summer, there are lightbulbs above the picnic tables, illuminating the colorful storefront. The bustling crowd provides a fun and noisy experience. If you want to see the sunset, the best time to go is around 7pm, before the big rush.

Nicecream:
Nicecream, in Clarendon, is special in a scientific way. All of their ice creams are frozen using liquid nitrogen. Through the glass barrier, you can see the workers pour nitrogen into the cream base. It’s a fascinating process to watch, with the nitrogen pouring over the sides of the bowl. They create some fun nontraditional flavors, like lemon lavender and carrot cake. The store itself is sleek and modern. But the best part is the fun experience Nicecream provides!

La Moo Creamery:
Rated the best rolled ice cream in Northern Virginia, La Moo Creamery is very tasty. Business is always lively being located in Harrison Shopping Center. They specialize in traditional Thai chopped ice cream. The workers roll it in front of you, scraping the ice cream on a frozen table. You can customize your ice cream with their vast array of flavors and toppings, and watch them add all the ingredients into the cream base and chop away.

A sweet treat is a summer must have, and whatever your ice cream preferences are, Arlington has a lot of great options!