We love specialty dessert shops as much as anyone else, but sometimes there’s nothing like a classic scoop of old-fashioned ice cream just like you got as a kid. Head to one of these five ice cream shops in NoVA to cool off with your favorite flavor.
Peterson’s Ice Cream Depot
This sweet shop in Clifton makes its treats inhouse, with 12 rotating flavors available every day. Stop in for a taste of strawberry, mint chocolate, chip, or cookies and cream, plus other seasonal kinds. Get a simple cup or cone, or mix it up with a sundae or milkshake — there’s no wrong answer. 7150 Main St., Clifton
Pop’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream
Step into the vintage interior of Pop’s and taste one of its classic flavors. It’s named for Ray “Pop” Giovanni, who started making desserts in the 1940s and served Eleanor Roosevelt ice cream. Grab a cone of peanut butter chocolate pretzel, Butterfinger coffee, or carrot cake. 109 King St., Alexandria
The Dairy Godmother
This staple Alexandria spot keeps it simple with a menu of frozen custard in vanilla, chocolate, and a rotating specialty flavor. Try flavors like Chocolate Rice Krisy (June 27 to 26), tiramisu (July 1 to 2), or a cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg flavor called Mozambique (July 15 to 16). 2310 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria
Toby’s Homemade Ice Cream
With locations in Arlington and Vienna, Toby’s ice cream is made with all natural ingredients and flavors, with 16 percent butterfat content for a creamy result. Dig into a big bowl of salted caramel, vanilla chip, or pistachio to beat the heat. 5849A Washington Blvd., Arlington; 510 14th St. S., Ste. 70, Arlington; 280 Cedar Ln., Vienna
Woody’s Ice Cream
Tucked in Old Town Fairfax, Woody’s is a go-to for a sweet treat on the patio. It offers soft and hard ice creams in all the classic flavors, with the option to build your own sundae, float, or milkshake. 10435 North St., Fairfax.
Don’t forget to vote in our 2025 Ice Cream Wars.
Feature image of Dairy Godmother by Rey Lopez
