In need of a sweet escape? With soft serves, sundaes and more, these four ice cream spots are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. 
Handel’s
Founded in 1945 as a Midwestern, family-owned shop, Handel’s now ranks as one of the top tier destinations for ice cream in the country—and for good reason. Offering more than 100 flavors, including several frozen yogurt varieties, the franchise boasts a beloved location on the Main Line in Berwyn. There, you can try any of their icy treats, such as the tried-and-true banana split made with chocolate, vanilla and strawberry scoops, then smothered in crushed maraschino cherries, pineapple, whipped cream and, of course, bananas. 576 Lancaster Ave., Berwyn, PA, 610.640.1606, handelsicecream.com
Hope’s Cookies
While reputable for their freshly-baked cookie assortment, this Bryn Mawr sweet spot also whips up a great summertime treat to chill with. Hope’s opts for traditional favorites, such as mint chocolate chip, vanilla and cookies and cream, which pair perfectly with a warm treat. Not to mention, they can whip up an astounding milkshake worth trying, as well. 1125 West Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA, 610.527.4488, hopescookies.com
Gran Caffe L’Aquila
In the early aughts, this iconic cafe was considered one of—if not the—greatest cafes in all of Italy. However, after a 2009 earthquake devastated the Piazza Duomo and Abruzzo region, Gran Caffe L’Aquila relocated across the Atlantic to Philadelphia, where they opened their Chestnut Street locale. Although they are known for their savory options and shareable small bites, their rich gelato options are to die-to-for, as they are handmade by champion chef Stefano Biasini. 1716 Chestnut St., 215.568.5600, grancaffelaquila.com
Scoop DeVille
Since its opening in 1989, Scoop DeVille has been serving Philadelphians with the most memorable ice cream experience in town. From colorful cakes to custom blends, guests can create their own soft serve flavors or choose from hundreds of magnificent mix-ins. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat or savory splendor, the flavor combinations are endless with Scoop DeVille. 111 S. Independence Mall E., 215.988.9998, 1109 Walnut St., 215.988.9992, scoopdevilleicecream.com
The Franklin Fountain
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, The Franklin Fountain is scooping up the forgotten flavors of the American past with traditional and twisted takes on homemade ice cream. Indulge in classic flavors, like Philadelphia-style vanilla bean, or test your taste buds with green tea ice cream. Not to mention, The Franklin Fountain even features a rotating selection of delicious coconut-based vegan flavors. 116 Market St., 215.627.1899, franklinfountain.com
Bassetts Ice Cream
Located in Philadelphia’s Reading Terminal Market, Bassetts is known for its delicious desserts and superior service. From shakes to sorbets, this fifth-generation family business has remained a city staple since 1861, dishing delectable flavors that can be enjoyed in a cup, cone or hand-packed container. Ice cream connoisseurs can taste these fan-favorite flavors at the Terminal or a variety of local dip shops, fine restaurants and retail markets. 45 N. 12th St., 215.925.4315, bassettsicecream.com
Weckerly’s Ice Cream
Since 2012, Weckerly’s has been dishing out honest-to-goodness flavors and experiences. With a focus on local ingredients, good environmental stewardship and great tasting ice cream, Weckerly’s aims to build relationships with nearby farms, while spreading joy through their tasty treats. Guests can expect to enjoy a variety of dessert delicacies, from flavorful hand scooped ice cream to mouth-watering cookie sandwiches made from scratch. 9 W. Girard Ave., 265 S. 44th St., weckerlys.com
Photography by: Brooke Lark/Unsplash
