Even if you aren’t a summer person, one of its true pleasures is enjoying ice cream. Whether you’ve spent the day finding vintage threads, picking a rare out-of-print book, dropping into award-winning skateparks, pedaling the Parliament trail network, or diving into the rich history at local museums, you deserve a treat. We’ve already highlighted the mouthwatering desserts from the local chocolate shops — here are the can’t-miss ice cream shops in Nevada County.
Truckee
Little Truckee Ice Creamery
In their words, they don’t just make great ice cream, but super premium all-natural ice cream. The creamery constantly rotates flavors, which includes the ever-popular Truckee Trails — featuring pine nut brittle and brownie chunks in a sweet cream ice cream.
- Website
- 15628 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee(Northwest end of Donner Lake)
- 10124 E Street, Truckee (Food Truck next to Mountain Lotus Cafe in downtown Truckee)
- (530) 587-2884
Bud’s Old Fashioned Fountain
If you reminisce about the times of yore and want to introduce your kids to a classic soda parlor experience, this is the place to be. Saddle up to the counter with bar stools for a classic milkshake served in a parfait glass, or simply enjoy a good old-fashioned scoop of ice cream in a vintage soda fountain setting.
- 10108 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee (located in the heart of downtown Truckee)
- (530) 587-3177
Nevada City
Treats
Get ready to immerse yourself into ice cream artistry. Nestled within a historic building on the charming streets of downtown Nevada City, you’ll discover a shop that uses locally sourced ingredients, from peaches and berries to basil and ginger. Here, you’ll find flavors ranging from classics like mint chip to unique combinations such as saffron rose pistachio.
- Website
- 210 Main St, Nevada City
- (530) 913-5819
Nevada City Chocolate Shoppe
Although they’re famous for their chocolates, don’t pass by if you’re craving a frozen treat. In addition to premium ice cream, you’ll find hand-dipped drumsticks, cheesecake on a stick, frozen bananas, and even ice cream sundaes to choose from.
- Website
- 236 Broad St, Nevada City
- (530) 265- 3448
Grass Valley
CoCo’s Candy and Creamery
This charming spot, located up in the Brunswick basin with ample parking, serves their own freshly made ice cream and the unique opportunity to buy freshly dipped ice cream bars. In addition to their ice cream, you’ll find finely crafted chocolates, including turtles, chocolate-dipped caramels, and marshmallows with a variety of other delectable treats.
- Website
- 2072 Nevada City Highway
- (530) 446-6203
Lazy Dog Chocolateria
While it may be famous for its hand-dipped chocolates, this spot is also a haven for cold treats on a hot summer day. Enjoy the award-winning “The Latest Scoop” Italian Gelato, or indulge in a hand-dipped ice cream featuring the rich, smooth flavors of Gunther’s ice cream, a favorite for over 80 years.
- Website
- 111 Mill St, Grass Valley
- (530) 274-0774
Culture Shock Frozen Yogurt
If fro yo is more your style, visit Culture Shock for a healthy snack or a decadent dessert. Throughout the year, they continuously rotate flavors based on the seasons. You’ll find options like Island Banana in the summer and Macadamia Nut in the winter. You can customize your treat with over 90 do-it-yourself toppings. Check out their Facebook page to see what’s on tap currently.
- Website
- 851 Sutton Way, Grass Valley
- (530) 274-3444
