Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream in St. Petersburg, Florida
Ice Cream Lovers Here’s Your List of the Best
🍨 The Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream in St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Petersburg is a treasure trove for ice cream lovers, offering everything from small-batch scoops to vegan delights and old-fashioned sundaes. Bright Ice Scoop Shop impresses with creative, all-natural flavors in a modern, cozy setting. Paciugo Gelato brings authentic Italian flair to downtown with silky gelato and waterfront views. Plant Love Ice Cream redefines indulgence with 100% vegan, gluten-free options served in a bright, eco-friendly space. Meanwhile, Larry’s Olde Fashioned Ice Cream is a beloved beachside institution, blending nostalgic charm with over 100 flavors and fresh donuts. Whether you're strolling Central Ave or catching a sunset on Gulf Blvd, St. Pete’s ice cream scene is as flavorful and vibrant as the city itself. 🍨☀️
🍨 1. Bright Ice Scoop Shop
📍 3701 5th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL
Bright Ice Scoop Shop has become a staple for locals and tourists alike who crave small-batch, high-quality ice cream with an artisanal twist. Known for flavors like “Caramelized Banana,” “Sweet Corn with Blackberry,” and “Cinnamon Roll,” Bright Ice experiments with ingredients in the most delightful ways. Every batch is made from hormone-free milk and real ingredients, which means no artificial junk—just creamy, dreamy scoops full of character. Their rotating menu also keeps regulars coming back week after week for new surprises. 😋✨
The vibe inside Bright Ice is relaxed and modern with pops of pastel colors, a minimalist design, and a welcoming neighborhood feel. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to hang out in with friends after dinner or bring the kids for a treat after a sunny day at the park. Seating is casual but comfortable, with both indoor and outdoor options. You’ll often find chalkboards featuring hand-drawn flavor lists and the staff eager to offer samples. It’s as much about the experience as it is the dessert. 🍦🌈
🍨 2. Paciugo Gelato & Caffè
📍 300 Beach Dr NE #120, St. Petersburg, FL
Paciugo brings a taste of Italy to downtown St. Pete. Located right on bustling Beach Drive, this gelato café serves up more than 40 rotating flavors inspired by authentic Italian traditions. Popular options like Stracciatella, Pistachio, and Sea Salt Caramel delight tourists and locals alike, but don’t overlook their seasonal offerings, such as Pumpkin Spice or Bourbon Butter Pecan. Each flavor is crafted with all-natural ingredients and has a silkier, lighter texture than traditional ice cream—ideal for hot Florida days. 🇮🇹🍨
Inside, the atmosphere is sophisticated yet laid-back, making it the perfect pit stop during a beachside walk or museum visit. There’s indoor seating for those who want to escape the heat, plus outdoor tables with a view of the waterfront. The espresso bar adds a European café touch, offering gelato affogatos and strong Italian coffee. Whether you're people-watching or taking a quiet gelato break, Paciugo offers both a delicious treat and a charming escape. ☕🍧🌴
🍨 3. Plant Love Ice Cream
📍 953 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL
Plant Love Ice Cream is where dessert meets conscious living. Every single flavor here is 100% vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, but don’t let that fool you into thinking they sacrifice taste. Their coconut cream-based recipes include hits like "Chocolate Fudge Brownie," "Cookie Butter," and a mind-blowing “Snickers” flavor that rivals the real candy bar. It's a dream come true for people with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to indulge a bit more mindfully. 🌱🍦💚
The shop itself feels like a burst of sunshine. The decor is vibrant, filled with tropical plants, soft lighting, and plenty of seating. There's an earthy, boho vibe that instantly puts you at ease. On the walls, you'll see messages of kindness, eco-friendliness, and community. They even have compostable spoons and cups, underscoring their commitment to sustainability. Whether you’re vegan or just exploring new options, Plant Love is an experience that makes you feel good from the inside out. 🌞🌿
🍨 4. Larry’s Olde Fashioned Ice Cream & Gelato
📍 6595 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL
Larry’s has been serving smiles since 1984, and walking into this beachside shop is like stepping into a time capsule of joy. With over 100 flavors including classics like Butter Pecan and creative twists like “Orange Creamsicle Cheesecake,” there’s something for every palate. Not to mention, they serve fresh-made mini donuts and waffle cones that scent the air with irresistible sweetness. If you’re craving a towering sundae or banana split loaded with toppings, Larry’s is the place. 🍌🍦✨
The interior is colorful and quirky, filled with nostalgic décor, vintage signs, and red booths that scream old-school ice cream parlor. There’s arcade-style fun for the kids and funky wall murals that keep the vibes playful and family-friendly. The outdoor patio is perfect for people-watching or enjoying your cone with a sunset view after a day at the beach. Larry’s isn’t just a dessert stop—it’s a St. Pete tradition that keeps generations coming back. 🏖️