Ice cream just screams summer and a perfect bluebird sky afternoon in the mountains wouldn’t be complete without a cone, a dish, or a shake. Whether you’ve spent the afternoon hiking alpine trails, mountain biking, or simply strolling through town, a sweet treat is the ultimate reward.
From small-batch artisan gelatos to handcrafted waffle cones or classic malts, every town has its go-to ice cream shops. We asked our local teams to give us the scoop on their top picks to cool down and treat yourself in Steamboat Springs, Breckenridge, Vail, and Beaver Creek.
"The malts and the shakes are the locals' favorites!"
- Erik Skinner, Operations Manager / Maintenance & Shuttle
Johnny B. Good’s Diner
is a classic 50s style diner serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Known for its warm, nostalgic atmosphere and friendly service, it is a great spot for families, locals, and visitors alike. Johnny B's serves breakfast all day, classic diner favorites, and popular malts or shakes.
"You know it's the place to be judging from all the kids' bikes and scooter parked outside!"
- Diana Crowley, Guest Services Manager
Lyon’s Soda Fountain
is a charming local stop tucked inside Lyon’s Corner Drug in downtown Steamboat. With its nostalgic soda fountain feel, sweet treats, and small town character, it is a fun place to grab ice cream or a classic fountain drink. It is a simple but memorable stop for anyone looking for a taste of old school Steamboat charm.
"No day of horseback riding, paddleboarding, or hiking in North Routt is complete without a stop at the ice cream counter at the Clark Store before heading back down to Steamboat."
- Stephanie Kuenast, Guest Services Specialist
The Clark Store
is a friendly local stop known for fueling North Routt adventures since 1973. Guests can enjoy breakfast burritos, made to order sandwiches, locally sourced burgers, coffee, and grab and go options. It's also the local liquor store and post office.
"Quite simply...awesome!"
Chad Rowe, Chief Operating Officer
Sundae Ice Cream
is a sweet stop for handcrafted ice cream made fresh in small batches. Offering classic and creative flavors, housemade waffle cones, signature sundaes, shakes, and ice cream sandwiches served with a smile every day.
"The most amazing gelato outside of Italy!"
Gaby Sirotkin, Guest Services Specialist
Rimini Cafe
is a charming spot for artisan Italian gelato, handcrafted chocolates, specialty coffees, and sweet treats. Inspired by the rich gelato tradition of Rimini, Italy, it offers a delicious mix of indulgent desserts, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, and fine wines. Rimini's has locations in both Vail and Beaver Creek Villages.
"Higgle's Ice Cream located in the upper level store area behind Giampetro's Italian Restaurant close to the intersection of Main & Lincoln. Hands down the best ice cream in the county. Made in house with rotating interestingly delicious flavor combos. They do scoops, cones, ice cream flights, pints to go, and homemade waffle cones on the spot. Locally owned & operated family affair. Nothing else comes close."
- Jacob Powell, Maintenance Lead
It's also a favorite of our Photographer Justin Saunders and Owner Relations Manager Christine Izard.
Higgles Ice Cream is a fun stop for unique, artisan ice cream made in small batches. Their flavors rotate daily, offering a mix of classic favorites and creative options for every kind of sweet tooth.
