July in Grand Rapids means long sunny days, warm evenings, and one essential summer tradition—ice cream runs. Whether you’re strolling downtown after a festival, cooling off after a bike ride on the trails, or just looking for a sweet weekend treat, the city has no shortage of local spots serving up scoops, sundaes, and frozen favorites.
From nostalgic walk-up windows to artisan small-batch creameries, here are some of the best ice cream spots in Grand Rapids to check out this July.
Furniture City Creamery (Uptown & Creston)
If you’re looking for creative flavors and a true local favorite, Furniture City Creamery is a must-visit. Known for rotating small-batch flavors and house-made recipes, this shop often features unique options like seasonal fruit blends, vegan coconut-based scoops, and experimental flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
It’s the kind of place where every visit feels slightly different—perfect for ice cream lovers who like variety.
Frosty Boy (Multiple Locations)
A Grand Rapids staple, Frosty Boy is all about classic summer nostalgia. Think soft-serve cones, thick milkshakes, sundaes piled high with toppings, and that unmistakable “drive-in ice cream” experience.
With multiple locations across the city, it’s an easy go-to for families, kids, or anyone chasing that old-school ice cream stand vibe on a hot July night.
Pinkie’s Ice Cream & Desserts (Eastown)
Pinkie’s brings big scoops and bold flavors to the Eastown neighborhood. It’s known for generous portions, creative combinations, and a fun, colorful atmosphere that makes it a favorite for late-night summer cravings.
If you like trying something a little different—like over-the-top sundaes or specialty desserts—this is your stop.
Heights Cream (Alger Heights)
Tucked into the Alger Heights neighborhood, Heights Cream is a small, walk-up style shop that’s perfect for warm July evenings. Their menu features both soft-serve and hard scoop options, plus seasonal flavors and rotating specials.
It has a neighborhood feel that makes it ideal for grabbing a cone during an evening walk or bike ride.
Cone City (Kentwood)
Cone City is a no-frills, classic ice cream stop that focuses on one thing: good, simple ice cream done right. Expect big portions, affordable prices, and all the essentials—cones, flurries, shakes, and sundaes.
It’s especially popular with families looking for an easy, reliable summer treat.
The Cone Shoppe (Midtown)
A longtime favorite in Grand Rapids, The Cone Shoppe is known for its generous servings and classic menu. From twist cones to loaded sundaes, it delivers that traditional ice cream stand experience that never goes out of style in July.
Love’s Ice Cream (Downtown Market)
For something more premium, Love’s Ice Cream inside the Downtown Market offers rich, handcrafted flavors made in small batches. Expect unique seasonal combinations and high-quality ingredients that make it a standout for foodies.
It’s a great stop after exploring downtown or visiting nearby events.
Why Ice Cream Hits Different in July
Grand Rapids summers are made for ice cream. Whether you’re downtown for ArtPrize-style events, enjoying the riverfront, or exploring local parks, there’s always a nearby shop ready to help you cool down.
What makes the city’s ice cream scene special is its mix of styles—old-school drive-up counters, modern artisan creameries, and family-run neighborhood shops all coexist within a short drive of each other.
Final Scoop
If you’re spending July in Grand Rapids, don’t settle for just one stop. Try a few different shops, explore new neighborhoods, and discover your own favorite summer flavor.
Because in this city, ice cream isn’t just dessert—it’s part of summer.
