When the temperatures rise, Dayton knows exactly how to cool things down. From classic soft serve stands and Italian ice to rolled ice cream and small-batch creations, there’s no shortage of spots to grab something cold and refreshing.
Whether you’re chasing nostalgia or looking to try something new, these local favorites make it easy to turn a hot day into something a little sweeter.
Small-Batch Scoops at Jubie’s Creamery
With locations in Fairborn and Troy, Jubie’s Creamery brings a creative twist to classic ice cream. Known for its small-batch, hand-dipped flavors, this spot leans into unique combinations you won’t find just anywhere.
Think flavors like Hot Honeycomb, Vanilla Pearl, and Choc-A-Lot, alongside sundaes, parfaits, and blasts that make it easy to customize your treat. The bright, inviting space, complete with its signature elephant mascot, makes it just as fun to hang out as it is to order.
A Dayton Staple at Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
Rita’s is a go-to when you want something light, refreshing, and full of flavor. Their Italian ice and frozen custard are made fresh daily, with more than 70 rotating flavors to choose from.
The real standout is the Gelati, a layered combo of Italian ice and custard that hits the perfect balance of smooth and icy.
- Fan-favorite Gelati combinations
- Plenty of rotating flavor options
- Pet-friendly patio for summer stops with your dog
With two area locations in Kettering and Miamisburg, their friendly service and easygoing atmosphere make it a spot you’ll find yourself coming back to all season long.
New Orleans Flavor at Ducky’s Snowballs + Ice Cream
For something a little different, Ducky’s brings authentic New Orleans-style snowballs to Dayton. These aren’t your typical shaved ice. The ice is finely shaved to create a soft, fluffy texture, then topped with premium syrups and fun add-ons.
You can keep it simple or go all in with fillings like soft serve or marshmallow cream. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the “Quackwich” — a donut stuffed with ice cream — is a must-try.
Set inside a renovated gas station, the space has a laid-back, family-friendly feel with both indoor and outdoor seating that’s perfect for a casual summer stop.
Rolled Ice Cream on the Go with I Heart Ice Cream
Part treat, part experience, this Dayton-based mobile cart brings rolled ice cream right in front of you. The process starts with a liquid ice cream base poured onto a –20 degree cold plate, then mixed, spread, and rolled into perfectly curled scoops.
The result is extra creamy and completely customizable. Along with rolled ice cream, you’ll find dessert waffles, bubble waffle cones, and milkshakes, making it an easy choice when you want something a little over the top.
A Classic Stop at Jet Freeze
Jet Freeze is the definition of a summer tradition. This family-owned soft serve stand has been part of the Beavercreek community for more than 60 years, and it still delivers that classic, nostalgic experience.
- Retro walk-up window and 1920s-style indoor booths
- Outdoor picnic tables for warm summer nights
- Known favorites like strawberry soft serve and blueberry ice cream
It’s simple, affordable, and exactly what you want when you’re craving an old-school ice cream run.
A Taste of Italy at Tom & Dot’s Gelato
If you’re in the mood for something a little richer, Tom & Dot’s Gelato offers a true gelato experience with more than 30 rotating flavors and seasonal specialties.
From unique options like Ube Purple Yam and Banana Caramel to playful picks like Cookie Monster, there’s always something new to try. They also offer dairy-free sorbetto, plus a full menu of sandwiches, salads, and coffee if you’re turning your visit into a full stop.
It’s the kind of place that feels like a quick trip to Italy, right in the middle of Miamisburg.
A Local Favorite at Airline Dairy Creme
Located near the Dayton Airport in Vandalia, Airline Dairy Creme is a four-generation, family-owned spot that’s all about tradition. Known for its retro feel and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where summer memories are made.
With indoor seating and outdoor space where you can watch planes overhead, it offers a setting that’s just as enjoyable as the food itself.
- Famous peanut butter shakes
- Classic menu with footlong hot dogs and Coney dogs
- The well-known “Airline Burger”
It’s been serving “happiness by the cup or the cone” for decades, and it still delivers on that promise.
Sweet Stops All Summer Long
From quick stops to cool down to places worth building your evening around, Dayton’s dessert scene makes it easy to enjoy the season. Whether you’re sticking to a favorite or trying something new, there’s always another spot to add to your list.
Keep the summer inspiration going with more guides, local favorites, and can’t-miss spots in our Dayton Haus & Home blog library.
