The BEST Ice Cream in Wilmington, NC

If you know me at all, you know that I am an ice cream fanatic. With summer right around the corner and the beach finally opening back up, I have decided to rank my favorite ice cream shops in the Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach area. Don't worry Carolina Beach, I'm coming to explore all your ice cream goodness next.

I welcome any comments or suggestions of awesome ice cream shops I might have missed on the list. This post is simply filled with my opinion on the "best," but really any ice cream is the best ice cream.

9. Coldstone Creamery

Although Coldstone is delicious, for me it is not a favorite. I can probably count on one hand how many times we have been and it is mainly because I think it is a little pricey for what you get. Plus, Coldstone is all about the toppings and I normally avoid toppings unless I am getting a blizzard/concrete/whatever cute name a shop wants to give it.

8. Buzzed Bull Creamery

Even though this is not ranked super high on my list, this place is a must-visit! The concept is so cool and the ice cream is delicious. It is more expensive than your typical ice cream trip, but that is because the ice cream contains alcohol. Of course, there are options for non-alcoholic ice cream as well.

7. The Original Ice Cream Stand

I'm not a frequent visitor to this ice cream stand, but it is located near several bars and restaurants at Wrightsville Beach. It is a great place to stop after dinner and you can literally get your ice cream and walk to the beach with it and you can't beat that.

6. Bruster's

I am a big fan of Bruster's, but I live on the north side of Wilmington and wouldn't drive across town to get it. Every time I have been it has been an enjoyable experience and the ice cream portions are huge!

5. Kohl's Frozen Custard

Kohl's is a classic for me because I remember going there as a kid when visiting Wilmington. The ice cream is so good and their creative sundaes are amazing. This is a family-owned business too which is always a huge plus in my book.

4. Dairy Queen

Some people will not like me for this one, but I love Dairy Queen. It might be because I have such fond memories of me and my suitemates our sophomore year of college taking several night time trips for sprinkle cones. I will never turn down a blizzard.

3. Kilwins

If you haven't smelled the waffle cones then I don't think you have actually visited downtown Wilmington. These waffle cones are delicious and their ice cream is just as good.

2. Gelarto

This is a new Wilmington treat and a new favorite for me. It takes me back to my study abroad days and that is probably one reason while I am obsessed with it. Every flavor I have tried is incredible and the staff is so friendly. I think it will give Kilwins some serious competition this summer, but I still expect to see that line of customers waiting for ice cream all the way down the street.

1. Boombalatti's

This is hands down, in my opinion, the best ice cream around. It is a family-owned business and all their ice cream is handmade. There is a location in Mayfair and a location downtown plus there are a lot of unique flavors mixed in with the classics. Flavors to try: Mocha Oreo, Cinnamon Oatmeal Caramel Cookie, any seasonal flavor

Honorable Mention:

Lewis Strawberry Nursery & Farms

If you have never had a fresh strawberry ice cream cone then make sure you are ready to go next season because they are open for a limited time. It is so delicious and they also feature more flavors, like chocolate and pineapple.