Too hot to handle? Cool off at these Middle Tennessee ice cream shops

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — If Middle Tennessee’s summer heat has you questioning every life decision made after noon, these local ice cream shops offer the sweetest escape.

As dangerous heat grips Middle Tennessee, here’s a roundup of the region’s best spots for handcrafted scoops, towering sundaes and frozen treats made to beat the summer sizzle.

Mike’s is a late-night go-to for sweet cravings, known for its homemade waffle cones — the smell alone draws people in — and dozens of rotating flavors like espresso shake, banana pudding and strawberry cheesecake.

A Middle Tennessee institution, Hattie Jane’s churns small-batch ice cream made with Tennessee dairy. Southern-inspired flavors such as nana puddin’, brown butter pecan and strawberry jam have made it a regional favorite.

With more than 70 flavors — including a rotating “Sweet 16” lineup — Sweethaven has quickly earned its place on Franklin’s Main Street. Popular picks include fresh strawberry, chocolate raspberry truffle and spicy mango. Its charming location makes it an easy stop after shopping or dinner.

A Nashville landmark since 1951, Bobbie’s Dairy Dip keeps it classic with chocolate-dipped soft serve, old-school milkshakes and an ice cream-and-burger combo locals swear by. Pup cups are available for four-legged regulars.

Sarabhas is the spot for adventurous palates. Indian-inspired flavors, chai pairings and kulfi-inspired creations set this shop apart. Popular flavors include mango, Indian coffee and chai spice.

Conecept is Instagram-worthy without sacrificing substance. Creative seasonal flavors, thick milkshakes and loaded specialty cones keep locals coming back. Popular flavors include blueberry and vanilla.

This neighborhood favorite serves everything from ice cream to floats in a family-friendly setting. Standout flavors include bunny tracks, mango ice cream with chamoy and chocolate peanut butter.

Gelato lovers, this one’s for you. GelatoPazzo serves authentic Italian-style gelato with rich pistachio, stracciatella and seasonal fruit flavors. Locals consistently praise the shop’s warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Can’t choose between savory and sweet? Fryce Cream solves that. The shop pairs fries with soft-serve ice cream, loaded sundaes and sweet-and-salty combinations. The fries-and-gelato dip combo is a must-try, according to regulars.

Equal parts coffee shop and creamery, Cream & Bean features homemade coffee and ice cream flavors in a relaxed neighborhood setting.

A fast favorite in Franklin’s Cool Springs area, Handel’s makes its ice cream fresh daily with a lineup of more than 40 flavors. Fan favorites include Chocoholic Chunk, Monkey Business and Graham Central Station.

Visitors can watch staff hand-craft Mackinac Island-style fudge right in the shop. Freshly made waffle cones, rich ice cream flavors and an old-fashioned candy shop atmosphere have made Kilwins a longtime draw for locals and tourists alike.

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