When the weather warms up, there’s nothing quite like a cold, creamy treat to hit the spot. Whether you’re a fan of hand-dipped cones, creative sundaes, or anything in between, the La Crosse area has ice cream to satisfy every sweet tooth. Come check out these downtown gems and neighborhood favorites – they bring the joy of summer in every scoop!
If you’re scoping out an ice cream spot on the off season, be sure to check if they’re open before going, as some of these ice cream shops are only open seasonally!
The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor | 207 Pearl Street, La Crosse
Ice Cream at The Pearl | Photos courtesy of The Pearl
A true La Crosse classic, The Pearl is known for its old-fashioned charm and homemade ice cream made in small batches on-site. With flavors ranging from cappuccino oreo (our favorite!) to black cherry, you’ll find something for every craving. Grab your cone, sundae, or float, and then enjoy a walk through historic downtown or along the river!
Ranison Ice Cream & Candy | 706 16th Street South, La Crosse
This family-owned favorite serves up rich, creamy ice cream with a variety of rotating flavors, along with handmade chocolates and nostalgic candies. The cozy, retro-style shop has both indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for a summer treat!
David’s Ice Cream | N16045 Kriesel Lane, Trempealeau
David’s Ice Cream | Photos by Emma Lonergan for La Crosse Local
David’s Ice Cream offers a delicious variety of scoop ice cream, soft serve, shakes, and splits – seven days a week (seasonal)! With cozy interior booths or a large patio seating area, you can enjoy their treats the way you want. Don’t forget to check their Facebook page for upcoming events like food trucks, live music, and holiday specials.
Crossroads Ice Cream Parlor | 420 2nd Ave South Suite #2, Onalaska
Tucked inside the Crossroads Center, this ice cream parlor has a 24-flavor lineup for you to choose from. After you choose your flavor, eat it outside and watch the trains go by!
The Sweet Shop | 1113 Caledonia Street, La Crosse
The Sweet Shop has been a local staple since 1921 (yes, that long!). They offer homemade ice cream and hand-dipped, homemade chocolate confections – you can taste the love in every bite. It’s a great place to cool off or satisfy your sweet tooth!
Rudy’s Drive-In Restaurant | 1004 La Crosse Street, La Crosse
Root Beer Floats and Ice Cream Cone at Rudy’s | Photos courtesy of Rudy’s Drive-In
This 1950s-style drive-in offers more than just burgers and root beer—it’s also a go-to for floats, sundaes, and cones delivered right to your car by carhops on roller skates. Rudy’s features weekly specials and “Cruise Night” events in the summer, adding to the throwback fun!
HD Drive In | 612 North Main Street, Holmen
A seasonal hotspot in Holmen, HD Drive In is a drive-in known for good food and treats! It’s a convenient spot where you can pull in to order and eat right from your car, or dine at one of the outdoor patio tables. We highly recommend the Mudd Cup – a mix of chocolate and vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup, Oreo cookie crumbles, topped with whipped cream, nuts, and of course, a cherry!
