Wake County
Frios Raleigh
Fuel your summer cravings with unique signature, rotating and limited-time popsicles at Frios Raleigh. A once-humble popsicle stand in an Alabama garage has exploded into a popular national franchise, known for its tie-dye mobile vans, affectionately called the “Sweet Rides.” Explore delicious flavors in Raleigh and Cary, from peanut butter banana and caramel cheesecake to cold brew and pineapple habanero.
Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
Rita’s is a classic and for good reason. Italian ice and frozen custard are especially delicious in the summer, but we would be remiss if we didn’t recommend our favorite dish at Rita’s: the “Blendini.” This decadent blend of creamy custard and Italian ice is awe-inspiring as it is, but it wouldn’t be complete without your favorite toppings. Rita’s Cary location is open seven days a week, from noon to 10 p.m., and its new Raleigh location is coming soon!
SweetWater Ices
Craving Italian ice, but don’t want to venture out into the heat? Order a cold, crisp four- or six-pack to be delivered straight to your door, or book one of SweetWater Ices’ mobile carts for your next big event. Some of our favorite flavors include lemon, strawberry, watermelon and peanut butter.
Durham County
LocoPops
Durham’s legendary LocoPops should be at the top of everyone’s summer dessert list. Visit the Hillsborough Road or Foster Street locations and choose from 19 refreshing flavors, plus six mini pop options, ideal for kiddos. Taking your pops on the go? Grab a LocoPops-branded reusable cooler, with room for 70-230 popsicles.
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt
Menchie’s is a must-try, with locations in Durham, Cary and Garner offering innovative, limited-time flavors including blueberry pomegranate tart, chocolate-dipped churro and classic banana bread. Love to enjoy frozen yogurt year-round? Treat yourself this holiday season with flavors like pumpkin harvest, holiday eggnog and spiced gingerbread cookie.
Perkins Orchard
Perkins Orchard is a Bull City staple, serving as the largest and oldest Black family-owned produce market in Durham. Its robust fresh fruit options are a great healthy treat for summertime refreshment. Mix and match your favorite fruits and vegetables and fill a bushel-sized bag for just $25! If you’re looking for something a tad more indulgent, we recommend the handmade fruit sorbets and popsicles, made fresh every day.
Orange County
The Pretty Ice Company NC
This Hillsborough-based Italian ice company is a hidden gem, with a mobile cart and tent often found at public events and festivals throughout the Triangle. Contact The Pretty Ice Company at 910-888-3803 to explore its catering options and add an unmistakable “cool factor” to your next get-together with fan-favorite flavors like strawberry lemonade, mango and cherry. Be on the lookout for its upcoming regular weekend location on Churton Street in Hillsborough!
YoPo: The Yogurt Pump
Looking for “the place to chill on the hill?” YoPo has been a charming and reliable staple in Chapel Hill, serving up delicious frozen yogurt flavors from European chocolate and apple pie to blackberry tart and cinnamon bun to locals, students and tourists alike since 1982. Stop in for a scoop this weekend – the perfect pit stop during a summer stroll down Franklin Street.
Yopop Frozen Yogurt
This friendly neighborhood self-serve frozen yogurt bar on Weaver Dairy Road is a refreshing haven during the summer months. Step inside, escape the heat, and treat yourself to a cup of fro-yo covered in your favorite toppings – from fresh fruit and shaved coconut to gummy worms and sprinkles – at Yopop in Chapel Hill.
Chatham County
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice
Jeremiah’s is a one-stop-shop for the whole family, offering a variety of frozen delights. Visit its Pittsboro, Wake Forest or Wendell locations and browse a rich menu of Italian ice and ice cream options, or try one of its signature layered flavors for a combination of both!
Still building your seasonal to-do list? Check out our roundup of can’t-miss summer events in the Triangle!
