In need of a sweet escape? With soft serves, sundaes and more, these eight ice cream spots are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. 
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 sixth-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 various local dip shops, fine restaurants and retail markets. 45 N. 12th St., 215.925.4315, bassettsicecream.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
Gran Caffe L’Aquila
In the early aughts, this iconic cafe was considered one of—if not the—greatest cafes in 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 for, as they are handmade by champion chef Stefano Biasini. 1716 Chestnut St., 215.568.5600, grancaffelaquila.com
Handel’s
Founded in 1945 as a Midwestern, family-owned shop, Handel’s now ranks as one of the country’s top destinations for ice cream—and for good reason. Offering more than 45 flavors, including several vegan and sorbet varieties, the shop 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 cherries and pineapple, real strawberries, mixed nuts, whipped cream and, of course, bananas. 573 E. Lancaster Ave., Berwyn, PA, 610.640.1606, handelsicecream.com
Hope’s Cookies
While reputable for its freshly baked cookie assortment, this Bryn Mawr sweet spot also whips up a great summertime treat to chill with. Hope’s Cookies 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 W. Lancaster Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA, 610.527.4488, hopescookies.com
Scoop DeVille
Since its opening in 1989, Scoop DeVille has served Philadelphians 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. 538 S. St., 215.988.9998, 1109 Walnut St., 215.988.9992, scoopdevilleicecream.com
Van Leeuwen
From its modest origins as an ice cream truck in New York City, Van Leeuwen has blossomed into a national delight with locations in eight states. Stop by one of their three Philly locations—Rittenhouse, Fishtown and Center City—for a scoop of the decadent hazelnut fudge cookie or plant-based options like the vegan churros and fudge. Multiple Locations, vanleeuwenicecream.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 mouthwatering cookie sandwiches. 9 W. Girard Ave. 215.423.2000, weckerlys.com
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