Luxe Ice Cream Brands in the USA for Kids to Feast on During a Vacation

Indulging in a delicious ice cream treat is one of the highlights of any vacation, especially for kids. In the USA, numerous luxe ice cream brands offer delectable flavors and unique experiences that make dessert time extra special. Here’s a guide to some of the best high-end ice cream brands for kids to feast on during your next vacation.

1. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

Location: Nationwide

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is renowned for its artisanal approach and inventive flavors. Each scoop is crafted using high-quality ingredients and a meticulous process to ensure a luxurious experience.

Must-Try Flavors:

• Brambly Berry Crisp: A perfect blend of blackberries, blueberries, and a touch of brown sugar oat streusel.
• Gooey Butter Cake: Inspired by the St. Louis dessert, this flavor combines cream cheese ice cream with chunks of vanilla cake and a swirl of caramel.

Why Kids Will Love It: Jeni’s offers fun and whimsical flavors that appeal to kids, along with vibrant scoop shops that provide a delightful atmosphere.

2. Salt & Straw

Location: Various locations including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle

Salt & Straw is famous for its creative and sometimes unconventional flavor combinations. Their ice cream is made with local, sustainable ingredients, providing a unique taste of each region.

Must-Try Flavors:

• Honey Lavender: A floral and creamy treat made with local honey and lavender petals.
• Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons: A classic flavor with a twist, combining rich sea salt ice cream with thick ribbons of house-made caramel.

Why Kids Will Love It: The imaginative flavors and interactive experience at Salt & Straw shops make ice cream tasting an adventure.

3. Ample Hills Creamery

Location: New York City, New Jersey, Florida, and online

Ample Hills Creamery is known for its playful approach to ice cream, incorporating mix-ins and flavors that create a fun and indulgent experience.

Must-Try Flavors:

• Ooey Gooey Butter Cake: Vanilla ice cream with chunks of St. Louis-style ooey gooey butter cake.
• The Munchies: Pretzel-infused ice cream with Ritz crackers, potato chips, pretzels, and mini M&Ms.

Why Kids Will Love It: The quirky names and chunky mix-ins make every bite an exciting surprise.

4. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

Location: Various locations including New York, Los Angeles, and Houston

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream started as a food truck in New York City and has grown into a beloved brand known for its rich and creamy texture and simple, high-quality ingredients.

Must-Try Flavors:

• Cookies & Cream: Classic flavor with a luxurious twist, made with cream-filled chocolate cookies.
• Honeycomb: A crowd favorite featuring sweet honeycomb candy mixed into creamy vanilla ice cream.

Why Kids Will Love It: The classic flavors done exceptionally well will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

5. Coolhaus

Location: Various locations including Los Angeles, Dallas, and available nationwide in grocery stores

Coolhaus is famous for its architecturally-inspired ice cream sandwiches and pints. The brand focuses on innovative flavors and high-quality ingredients.

Must-Try Flavors:

• Balsamic Fig and Mascarpone: A sophisticated blend of sweet figs and tangy balsamic vinegar.
• Milkshake & Fries: A playful flavor combining salted French fry ice cream with a malted milkshake swirl.

Why Kids Will Love It: The novelty of ice cream sandwiches and unique flavors will captivate their taste buds.

6. Bi-Rite Creamery

Location: San Francisco

Bi-Rite Creamery is a San Francisco staple, known for its organic and locally-sourced ingredients. The ice cream is handcrafted in small batches to ensure top-notch quality.

Must-Try Flavors:

• Salted Caramel: A perfect balance of sweet and salty, with a rich caramel base.
• Roasted Banana: A creamy banana ice cream with a deep, roasted flavor.

Why Kids Will Love It: The rich, authentic flavors and friendly neighborhood scoop shops make for a memorable treat.

7. Humphry Slocombe

Location: San Francisco, Los Angeles, and other select locations

Humphry Slocombe is celebrated for its bold and unusual flavor combinations. Each batch is made with premium ingredients and a creative touch.

Must-Try Flavors:

• Secret Breakfast: A mix of bourbon and cornflakes, offering a surprising and delightful taste.
• Blue Bottle Vietnamese Coffee: A strong, aromatic coffee flavor perfect for older kids and adults alike.

Why Kids Will Love It: The unexpected and daring flavors turn ice cream into an exciting culinary adventure.

Tips for Enjoying Luxe Ice Cream with Kids

1. Sample Before You Buy: Many of these shops offer samples, so kids can try a few flavors before deciding.
2. Mix It Up: Encourage kids to try a mix of familiar and new flavors for a fun experience.
3. Take It Outside: Find a nearby park or scenic spot to enjoy your ice cream and make it a special outing.
4. Capture the Moment: Take photos of your ice cream adventure to remember the fun.

Indulging in luxe ice cream brands during your vacation not only satisfies sweet cravings but also creates lasting memories for the whole family. Enjoy exploring these delicious destinations!