The Absolute Best Ice Cream in Fort Collins [Updated 2024]

Having grown up in Fort Collins and tasting ice cream from all corners of the city, I have curated a list of the top 15 ice cream spots that you must try. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide will take you on a delicious journey through the flavors and hidden gems of our vibrant ice cream scene.

From classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate to unique creations like lavender honey and candied bacon, there's something to satisfy every palate. So, grab a spoon and get ready to indulge in the creamiest, most decadent frozen treats Fort Collins has to offer.

Let's dive in!

Walrus Ice Cream

Highlights
Iconic ice cream shop
Diverse and unique flavors
Friendly and enthusiastic staff
Upbeat and inviting atmosphere

Walrus Ice Cream truly lives up to its reputation as an iconic ice cream shop in Fort Collins. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly made waffle cones and the sight of colorful displays of frozen delights. The upbeat and inviting atmosphere brought an immediate smile to my face, setting the perfect tone for a delightful ice cream experience.

The highlight of Walrus Ice Cream is undoubtedly their wide variety of diverse and unique flavors. From classic combinations like cookies and cream to bold creations like lavender honey, there is truly something to satisfy every ice cream lover's cravings. The flavor selection at Walrus Ice Cream seemed endless, and I found myself torn between trying all the unique options or sticking with a classic favorite.

What truly sets Walrus Ice Cream apart, however, is their friendly and enthusiastic staff. The staff members were not only knowledgeable about the flavors but also passionate about their craft. They patiently helped me navigate through the delightful conundrum of flavor choices and even offered samples to ensure I made the perfect selection.

Overall, my visit to Walrus Ice Cream in Fort Collins was a remarkable experience. The combination of their diverse and unique flavors, friendly staff, and inviting atmosphere made it a memorable destination for any ice cream aficionado. Whether you're seeking a comforting scoop of your childhood favorite or an adventurous flavor to expand your taste buds, Walrus Ice Cream is a must-visit spot that will not disappoint.

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Old Town Churn Ice Cream

Highlights
Fresh and delicious ice cream
Friendly personnel
Fun environment
Attentive to food allergies
Helpful in providing information

From the moment I walked into Old Town Churn, I was immediately whisked away to an ice cream lover's paradise. Nestled in the heart of Fort Collins, this charming little ice cream shop offers a delightful mix of traditional flavors and unique creations that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

One of the things that struck me the most about Old Town Churn was the incredible freshness of their ice creams. Each scoop was bursting with flavor and had a creamy texture that was simply divine. From classic options like vanilla bean and chocolate fudge to more adventurous choices like lavender honey and roasted almond, there was something to please every palate.

The staff at Old Town Churn were not only friendly but also dedicated to providing an exceptional experience. They were eager to make recommendations, answer any questions, and were particularly attentive to food allergies. I was impressed by their knowledge and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone could enjoy their ice cream.

The ambiance of Old Town Churn was equally delightful. The shop was adorned with vintage decor and had a whimsical feel that transported me back to simpler times. It was the perfect place to indulge in a sweet treat and create memories with friends and family.

In conclusion, Old Town Churn is undoubtedly a top contender for the best ice cream in Fort Collins. With its fresh and delicious flavors, friendly personnel, and fun environment, it is a must-visit for any ice cream enthusiast. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit and highly recommend you stop by and treat yourself to a scoop (or two!) of their delightful ice cream creations.

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Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard

Highlights
Childhood favorite
Great service
Lots of options
Mango Italian ice is delicious
Clever idea for cart at parties

First of all, let me just say that Rita's holds a dear place in my heart as a childhood favorite. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was instantly transported back to those carefree days of summertime bliss.

The atmosphere was delightful, with the staff providing great service that made me feel like I was the main character in a fancy ice cream commercial. They patiently guided me through the vast array of options and flavors, ensuring that I found the perfect treat to satisfy my cravings.

One flavor that stood out to me was the Mango Italian ice. Oh, my taste buds! The tangy yet sweet combination was deliciously refreshing, like a tropical vacation in a cup. It was the perfect balance of flavor and texture, leaving me wanting more with every bite.

But what really impressed me was the clever idea of having a cart available for parties. I mean, who doesn't want to bring the joy of Rita's to their own gathering? It's a surefire way to make any event a memorable one.

In conclusion, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is a true gem in Fort Collins. With its childhood nostalgia, great service, endless options, and delectable treats like the Mango Italian ice, it's no wonder that this place is considered one of the best ice cream destinations in town. So, go ahead and indulge in the cool delights Rita's has to offer – you won't be disappointed.

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Cold Stone Creamery

Highlights
Yummy ice cream
Delicious
Ready for summer
Cold Stone creamery
Yum yum yum yum

Walking into Cold Stone Creamery, I was instantly greeted by the tempting aroma of freshly made waffle cones. It was a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for indulging in some sweet treats.

Being a connoisseur of ice creams, I could immediately tell that Cold Stone Creamery takes their craft seriously. Their ice cream was smooth, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Each spoonful was a delightful explosion of taste, leaving me wanting more.

The variety of flavors and toppings at Cold Stone Creamery is truly impressive. From classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to unique creations such as cake batter and cotton candy, there was something for everyone. They also offer a wide array of toppings, allowing you to customize your dessert to your heart's content.

What sets Cold Stone Creamery apart from other ice cream shops is their signature technique of mixing in the toppings of your choice on a frozen granite stone. This method ensures that every bite is evenly distributed with delicious goodness.

Even though Fort Collins is known for its chilly winters, Cold Stone Creamery brings a taste of summer all year round. Their ice cream is the perfect treat to cool down on a hot summer day or to simply satisfy your sweet tooth whenever the craving strikes.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best ice cream in Fort Collins, Cold Stone Creamery is definitely a top contender. Their yummy and delicious ice cream will transport you to a state of pure bliss with every spoonful. So, don't miss out on this amazing ice cream experience. Visit Cold Stone Creamery and indulge in the yumminess!

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Cold Stone Creamery - West Elizabeth St.

Highlights
Friendly staff
Great experience
Delicious ice cream

As I stepped into Cold Stone Creamery - West Elizabeth St., I was immediately greeted by the friendly staff. Their warm smiles and eagerness to serve made me feel right at home.

The moment I caught a whiff of the sweet aroma of freshly made waffle cones, I knew I was in for a great experience. The sound of the ice cream being mixed and churned on the cold slab only added to the anticipation.

Once I finally got my hands on the ice cream, I was blown away by the first bite. The smooth and creamy texture melted on my tongue, releasing a burst of flavors that danced on my taste buds. Each scoop was a delightful combination of richness and sweetness.

What I loved most about Cold Stone Creamery - West Elizabeth St. was the endless options for customization. From choosing your ice cream base to selecting your mix-ins, you have the power to create a personalized masterpiece. The staff was incredibly patient and attentive, ensuring that each creation was as unique as the individual who ordered it.

Overall, my visit to Cold Stone Creamery - West Elizabeth St. was a delightful experience that exceeded my expectations. The combination of friendly staff, great atmosphere, and mouthwatering ice cream made for a truly memorable visit. It's no wonder why this place is in the running for the best ice cream in Fort Collins.

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Nieves y Botanas Del Bajio

Highlights
Hot and fresh elote
Great service
Nice selection of treats
Amazing elote

Let me start by saying that Nieves y Botanas Del Bajio is more than just an ice cream shop—it's a hidden gem of flavors and treats!

Upon walking in, I was immediately drawn to the enticing aroma of hot and fresh elote. The vibrant yellow corn on the cob was perfectly dolloped with a generous amount of butter, mayo, and crumbly cheese, creating a savory and irresistible snack. It was love at first bite!

The friendly staff offered me their great service, making me feel welcomed and valued as a customer. They were knowledgeable about their offerings and enthusiastic when explaining the different options available. It was evident that they truly cared about providing a memorable experience.

As I perused their menu, I noticed a nice selection of other treats beyond their mouthwatering elote. From refreshing paletas to traditional Mexican snacks, there was something for everyone's taste buds. However, it was their elote that stole the show for me.

I must confess, the elote at Nieves y Botanas Del Bajio is nothing short of amazing. The combination of creamy mayo, tangy cheese, and perfectly roasted corn had me coming back for seconds, and quite possibly thirds too.

In conclusion, if you're searching for a unique and delightful ice cream experience in Fort Collins, look no further than Nieves y Botanas Del Bajio. With their hot and fresh elotes, great service, and nice selection of treats, this hidden gem is a must-visit for any ice cream enthusiast. Don't miss out on this playful twist to the traditional ice cream shop scene!

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Mary's Mountain Cookies

Highlights
Delicious and varied flavors
Excellent customer service
Beautiful wooden stands
Wide variety of cookie options
Perfect for special occasions

Let me start by saying that Mary's Mountain Cookies is not just your average ice cream shop. It is a delightful hidden gem in the heart of Fort Collins that will satisfy even the most discerning ice cream connoisseurs.

As soon as I stepped inside, I was immediately captivated by the charming atmosphere. The shop is adorned with beautiful wooden stands showcasing an array of delectable treats. The variety of cookies on display was simply astounding, and I couldn't help but indulge in a few before getting to the main attraction: the ice cream.

The selection of flavors at Mary's Mountain Cookies is truly a sight to behold. From classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like lavender honey and cinnamon toast crunch, there is something to please every palate. I was thrilled to see so many unique offerings that I hadn't encountered elsewhere in Fort Collins.

Not only are the flavors incredible, but the customer service at Mary's Mountain Cookies is top-notch. The staff members were not only friendly and welcoming but also extremely knowledgeable about the ice cream and cookie offerings. They were more than happy to provide recommendations based on my preferences, making the decision-making process a breeze.

What truly sets Mary's Mountain Cookies apart is its commitment to creating a memorable experience. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself, this place has got you covered. I highly recommend this hidden gem to anyone in search of the best ice cream in Fort Collins.

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Glacier Ice Cream Fort Collins

Highlights
Great service
Variety of flavors
Cozy seating area
Delicious ice cream
Reasonable prices

What sets Glacier Ice Cream Fort Collins apart is their exceptional service. From the moment I walked in, the friendly staff made me feel right at home. They were knowledgeable about all the different flavors and were more than happy to offer recommendations based on my preferences.

Speaking of flavors, Glacier Ice Cream Fort Collins certainly has a variety to choose from. They have classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla, but they also offer unique and adventurous flavors like lavender honey and maple bacon. Each flavor is made with high-quality ingredients, and you can taste the care that goes into each scoop.

The seating area inside the shop is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to enjoy your ice cream. Whether you choose to sit at one of their tables or on one of the comfy couches, you'll be able to savor every bite in comfort.

Now, let's talk about the most important part – the ice cream itself. I can confidently say that Glacier Ice Cream Fort Collins serves some of the most delicious ice cream in the city. Every scoop is creamy, rich, and full of flavor. They also offer a wide range of toppings and sauces to customize your treat even further.

One aspect that sets Glacier Ice Cream Fort Collins apart is their reasonable prices. You can indulge in their delectable ice cream without breaking the bank, which is always a plus.

In conclusion, Glacier Ice Cream Fort Collins is a true gem in the ice cream scene of Fort Collins. With its great service, variety of flavors, cozy seating area, delicious ice cream, and reasonable prices, it's no wonder this place is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Make sure to add it to your list of must-try ice cream shops in Fort Collins!

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Josh & John's

Highlights
Non-dairy options
Friendly and helpful staff
Delicious ice cream
Military discount available

Let me start by saying that Josh & John's is a gem in the vibrant ice cream scene of Fort Collins. As someone who appreciates a good selection, I was pleased to find a variety of options to cater to different dietary needs. Whether you're vegan or lactose intolerant, their non-dairy options will definitely satisfy your craving without compromising on flavor.

What truly stood out during my visit was the staff at Josh & John's. They were not only friendly, but also genuinely passionate about ice cream. Their knowledge and willingness to guide me through their extensive menu made my experience even more enjoyable. It's always great to have experts who can help you make the best decision when faced with a tough choice between flavors.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the ice cream itself. Oh my, was it delicious. Each scoop showcased craftsmanship and attention to detail. Whether you prefer classic flavors like creamy vanilla or adventurous creations like lavender honey, Josh & John's delivers on taste every time. The texture was smooth, the flavors were well-balanced, and every bite was a delightful explosion of sweetness.

Lastly, I must mention that Josh & John's honors our servicemen and women with a military discount. As a patriotic touch, this discount is a wonderful way to show appreciation to those who serve our country.

All in all, if you find yourself in Fort Collins and in need of a scoop of happiness, do yourself a favor and head to Josh & John's. You won't be disappointed.

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Ben & Jerry’s

Highlights
Fun location
Unique bathroom mirrors
Employee discounts
Large variety of flavors
LGBTQIA+ friendly

Let me start by saying that Ben & Jerry’s is an absolute delight for ice cream enthusiasts like myself. As I walked into their fun and vibrant location, the aroma of freshly churned ice cream swept me off my feet.

One of the first things that caught my attention were the unique bathroom mirrors. Each mirror is creatively designed with colorful ice cream motifs and quirky phrases, adding a whimsical touch to the entire experience.

The friendly staff at Ben & Jerry’s deserves a special mention, not just for their warm smiles but also for their employee discounts. It is commendable to see a company that values and takes care of their employees, creating a positive work environment that surely reflects in the delightful scoops they serve.

Now, let's get down to the real reason we're here - the ice cream. And boy, does Ben & Jerry’s deliver! They offer a large variety of flavors that are constantly rotating, ensuring there's always something exciting to try. From classics like Cherry Garcia to unique creations like Phish Food, each scoop is a burst of creamy perfection.

Moreover, what truly sets Ben & Jerry’s apart is their commitment to being LGBTQIA+ friendly. Not only do they actively support LGBTQIA+ causes, but their shops also provide a safe and inclusive space for everyone to indulge in their favorite frozen treats.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in Fort Collins and a craving for ice cream strikes, do yourself a favor and visit Ben & Jerry’s. With their playful ambiance, delectable flavors, and dedication to inclusivity, it's no wonder they are a top contender for the best ice cream in Fort Collins.

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Dairy Queen (Treat)

Highlights
Frosty fortress
Blizzard creations
Ice cream wizards
Delicious desserts
Quick and amazing service

Let me start by saying that Dairy Queen (Treat) is a frosty fortress of deliciousness, where blizzard creations are crafted by true ice cream wizards.

As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly made waffle cones and the sight of a colorful array of frozen delights. The menu alone was enough to make my mouth water, with a tempting selection of classic sundaes, soft-serve cones, and their famous blizzards.

Speaking of blizzards, these frozen concoctions are truly the stars of the show at Dairy Queen. With names like Oreo Blizzard, Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Blizzard, and Cookie Dough Blizzard, you can't help but be awestruck by the sheer creative genius behind these desserts. Each bite is a burst of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

But it's not just the blizzards that impressed me; Dairy Queen also knows how to create other delicious desserts. From banana splits to Dilly Bars, their menu is a treasure trove of sweet treats that will satisfy any ice cream aficionado.

However, what truly sets Dairy Queen (Treat) apart is their quick and amazing service. Even during peak hours, the staff remains friendly and efficient, ensuring that you get your ice cream fix in no time.

If you find yourself in Fort Collins and in need of a delightful ice cream experience, make sure to visit Dairy Queen (Treat). Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Gelato & aMore

Highlights
Fun little stop
Huge and tasty
Random Gelato flavor
Outside seating
To-go place

Gelato & aMore was a fun little stop on my ice cream tasting adventure in Fort Collins. The moment I stepped into the shop, I was greeted with a delightful aroma of fresh waffle cones being made. It instantly set the stage for a sweet and memorable experience.

The first thing that caught my attention was the sheer size of the gelato servings. These scoops were not for the faint-hearted; they were huge and packed with flavor. Each bite was a burst of creamy deliciousness that melted in my mouth.

But what truly sets Gelato & aMore apart is their random gelato flavor of the day. It's like playing a game of ice cream roulette, never knowing what unique and exciting flavor you'll get to try. It adds an element of surprise and keeps things interesting for return visitors like me.

Another highlight of Gelato & aMore is their outside seating area. On a sunny day, it's the perfect spot to enjoy your gelato while people-watching or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Fort Collins.

Not in the mood to stay? No problem! Gelato & aMore is a fantastic to-go place. You can grab your favorite gelato flavor in a convenient cup or cone and take a stroll down the street, savoring every spoonful.

Overall, Gelato & aMore is a charming little gelateria that delivers big on taste and experience. With its huge scoops, random flavors, pleasant outdoor seating, and to-go option, it's a must-visit for any ice cream lover in Fort Collins. Don't miss out on the playful and delightful delights that this place has to offer!

Kilwins Fort Collins

Highlights
Exceptional experience
Personalized recommendations
High quality chocolates and fudges
Quick service with a smile
Great chill vibe

Let me just start by saying that my visit to Kilwins Fort Collins was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with a warm smile and a genuine enthusiasm for ice cream that was contagious.

The staff at Kilwins Fort Collins definitely take their craft seriously, and it shows. I was blown away by the personalized recommendations they gave me based on my flavor preferences. It was as if they could read my mind and knew exactly what would satisfy my sweet tooth.

But let's talk about the ice cream itself. Oh boy, it was a game-changer. Each scoop was a heavenly blend of creamy goodness that melted on my tongue, leaving behind a symphony of flavors. From classics like chocolate and vanilla to unique creations like sea salt caramel and peanut butter cup, Kilwins Fort Collins truly nailed it.

And let's not forget about their high-quality chocolates and fudges. (Did someone say chocolate-covered strawberries? Yes, please!) These delectable treats were the perfect complement to the already amazing ice cream selection.

What impressed me the most, however, was the quick service without sacrificing the friendly vibe. This place just oozes chill and invites you to relax and savor every moment.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best ice cream experience in Fort Collins, look no further than Kilwins Fort Collins. They offer an exceptional blend of flavors, personalized recommendations, high-quality chocolates and fudges, quick service with a smile, and a chill vibe that will leave you coming back for more. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

TCBY

Highlights
Bright and fun shop
More flavor selections
More toppings and combinations
Bigger serving bowls
Amazing service

Let me start by saying that TCBY is an absolute treat for ice cream enthusiasts like myself. As soon as I stepped into this bright and fun shop, I knew I was in for something special.

What sets TCBY apart from other ice cream shops in Fort Collins is their wide range of flavor selections. From classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to unique varieties like mint chocolate chip and birthday cake, there's no shortage of choices to satisfy your taste buds. The best part? You can mix and match flavors to create your own personalized concoction of deliciousness.

But it doesn't stop there. TCBY also offers an abundance of toppings and combinations. Whether you're a fan of fruity, chocolaty, or nutty toppings, they have it all. The possibilities are endless, and it's hard not to feel like a kid in a candy store while deciding which toppings to pile onto your frozen masterpiece.

One thing that truly impressed me about TCBY was the size of their serving bowls. They don't skimp on portions here. They understand that when it comes to ice cream, bigger is always better. So, don't be surprised when your jaw drops at the sight of the generous serving they hand over to you.

And let me tell you, the service at TCBY is top-notch. The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, and they go above and beyond to make sure you have the best ice cream experience possible. They genuinely care about your satisfaction, and it shows.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best ice cream experience in Fort Collins, look no further than TCBY. With their extensive flavor choices, plentiful toppings, generous portions, and outstanding service, TCBY is a true gem that will leave you craving for more. So go ahead and indulge in a sweet treat at TCBY – I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Culver’s

Highlights
Excellent service
Hot and tasty food
Variety of menu options
Delicious ice cream
Unique pork tenderloin option

First and foremost, the service at Culver's is simply excellent. The staff members were friendly and attentive, making sure that our dining experience was enjoyable from start to finish. They went out of their way to answer our questions and provide recommendations.

Now let's talk about the food. Culver's offers a wide variety of menu options that will satisfy any cravings. From burgers and fries to salads and chicken, there is something for everyone. I highly recommend trying their unique pork tenderloin option - it's a delightful twist on a classic.

But let's get to the star of the show - the ice cream. Oh boy, does Culver's deliver. Their ice cream is nothing short of delicious. With a plethora of flavors to choose from, you'll find yourself in a delightful dilemma. Whether you prefer classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate or more adventurous options like mint Oreo or caramel cashew, there's always something to please your taste buds.

In addition to the fantastic ice cream flavors, Culver's also offers a variety of toppings and mix-ins, allowing you to create your own personalized masterpiece.

Overall, my visit to Culver's in Fort Collins was a delightful experience. The combination of excellent service, hot and tasty food, and, of course, delicious ice cream make it a strong contender for the title of "best ice cream in Fort Collins." So, make sure to swing by Culver's and treat yourself to a scoop or two of their delightful creations. You won't be disappointed!