How to Plan a Denver Ice Cream Tour

Denver, Colorado, known for its mountain views, craft beer, and vibrant food scene, is also home to an unexpectedly rich and diverse ice cream culture. From artisanal small-batch makers using locally sourced dairy to innovative flavor experiments inspired by Colorados wildflowers and alpine herbs, the city has become a destination for dessert lovers seeking more than just vanilla and chocolate. Planning a Denver ice cream tour isnt just about eating sweetsits about experiencing the citys culinary creativity, supporting local businesses, and discovering hidden gems that dont always appear on mainstream travel lists. Whether youre a resident looking to explore your own backyard or a visitor planning a sweet-centric itinerary, a well-structured ice cream tour can turn a casual afternoon into a memorable, flavorful adventure. This guide walks you through every step of planning a personalized, efficient, and deeply satisfying Denver ice cream tour, from selecting the best shops to timing your visits and navigating seasonal offerings.

Step-by-Step Guide

Define Your Goals and Preferences

Before you start mapping out locations, take a moment to reflect on what kind of ice cream experience youre seeking. Are you drawn to traditional hand-churned scoops, vegan alternatives, or experimental flavors like lavender honey or blue corn? Do you prioritize organic ingredients, family-owned establishments, or Instagram-worthy presentations? Your goals will shape your route and help you eliminate options that dont align with your interests. For example, if youre lactose intolerant, youll want to focus on shops offering coconut, almond, or oat milk bases. If youre traveling with children, you might prioritize locations with outdoor seating, playgrounds, or kid-friendly toppings bars. Write down your top three prioritiesthis will serve as your filter when evaluating shops later in the process.

Research and Compile a Master List of Ice Cream Shops

Denver boasts over 50 ice cream establishments, ranging from century-old institutions to pop-up carts and modern tech-driven parlors. Start by compiling a master list using trusted food blogs, local publications like 5280 Magazine and Westword, and community-driven platforms such as Yelp and Google Maps. Look for shops with consistent high ratings (4.5 stars or above) and recent reviews mentioning freshness, variety, and service quality. Key names to consider include:
- Coopers Ice Cream Known for its signature Denver Brown flavor made with local coffee and chocolate.
- Denver Ice Cream Company A pioneer in small-batch production using Colorado dairy.
- Little Man Ice Cream Famous for its iconic milk can building and rotating seasonal flavors.
- Bluebird Ice Cream Offers vegan and gluten-free options with creative combinations like black sesame and matcha.
- Ice Cream Social A retro-style parlor with house-made waffle cones and a full cocktail menu for adults.
- Yogurtland For those seeking self-serve frozen yogurt with live cultures.
- St. Vrain Creamery A Boulder-based favorite with a Denver outpost, known for its cultured butter ice cream.
Dont forget to include at least one spot outside the downtown core, such as Swirl Ice Cream in Lakewood or Churn in Highlands Ranch, to get a broader sense of the metro areas offerings.

Group Shops by Neighborhood for Efficiency

To avoid wasting time driving across the city, group your selected shops by geographic proximity. Denvers neighborhoods are distinct and well-defined, making it easy to create logical clusters. Here are three recommended tour routes based on walkability and traffic patterns:
1. Downtown & LoDo (Lower Downtown): Start at Little Man Ice Cream, then walk to Coopers Ice Cream (just a few blocks away), and finish at Ice Cream Social. This route is ideal for tourists staying downtown or those who want to combine ice cream with sightseeingnear Coors Field, the Denver Art Museum, and the 16th Street Mall.
2. Highlands & Golden Triangle: Begin at Denver Ice Cream Company, head to Bluebird Ice Cream, then loop back to the neighborhoods popular caf, Paradise Bakery, which also serves house-made gelato. This area offers a more relaxed, residential vibe with tree-lined streets and boutique shops.
3. South Broadway & South Denver: Visit St. Vrain Creamery, then drive to Swirl Ice Cream in Lakewood. This route is perfect for those who want to avoid downtown crowds and enjoy a more local, community-centered experience. Consider ending here with a stop at the nearby Lakewood Library for a quiet break.

Use Google Maps to plot each location and estimate walking or driving times between stops. Aim for no more than 34 stops per day to avoid palate fatigue and maintain energy levels.

Check Operating Hours and Seasonal Closures

Many Denver ice cream shops operate seasonally, especially those with outdoor seating or non-traditional locations. Little Man, for example, is open year-round but has reduced hours during winter months. Some shops close on Mondays or Tuesdays for inventory and cleaning. Always verify current hours on the shops official website or social media pages. Also, be aware of special eventssome shops host Ice Cream Sundays or Flavor Launch Nights, which may mean longer lines or limited availability. If youre visiting in late fall or early spring, confirm whether the shop is open for walk-in service or only offering pre-orders. For peak summer weekends, arrive before 11 a.m. to avoid lines that can stretch over 30 minutes at popular spots like Little Man.

Plan Your Route with Transportation in Mind

Denvers public transit system, RTD, is reliable and connects most major neighborhoods, but not all ice cream shops are directly accessible by bus or rail. If youre relying on public transportation, use the RTD Trip Planner to map your route in advance. For maximum flexibility, consider renting a bikeDenvers extensive bike lanes and bike-sharing program (B-cycle) make it easy to zip between shops. If youre driving, note parking availability. Little Man has a large lot, but Coopers has limited street parkingplan to park one block away. For groups, consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to avoid the hassle of parking and ensure everyone can enjoy their treats without worrying about driving.

Set a Budget and Track Spending

Ice cream prices in Denver range from $4.50 for a single scoop at a neighborhood shop to $12 for a gourmet sundae with premium toppings. A full tour of four stops could easily cost $40$60 per person. Set a realistic budget before you begin$25$35 per person is reasonable for three scoops and one cone. Consider purchasing gift cards in advance from your favorite shops to lock in prices and avoid impulse buys. Use a simple notes app or a physical journal to track each purchase, including flavor names and prices. This not only helps with budgeting but also creates a personal souvenir of your tour.

Build in Rest and Hydration Breaks

Ice cream is rich, and consuming multiple servings in one day can lead to sugar fatigue or even mild nausea. Schedule 1520 minute breaks between stops to hydrate, stretch, and let your palate reset. Bring a reusable water bottleDenvers high altitude can cause dehydration, which may intensify sugar crashes. Use break times to explore nearby parks or public art installations. For example, between Coopers and Ice Cream Social, take a detour through the Denver Civic Center Park to enjoy the fountains and historic buildings. This transforms your tour from a food crawl into a cultural experience.

Engage with Staff and Ask for Recommendations

One of the most rewarding aspects of a Denver ice cream tour is interacting with the makers themselves. Many shop owners and staff take pride in their creations and are happy to share stories behind their flavors. Ask questions like: Whats your most popular flavor this season? or Whats something new youre experimenting with? You might discover limited-time offerings like Pueblo Chiltepin Chili Chocolate or Aspen Spruce Tipflavors inspired by Colorados native plants. Dont be shy to request a sample if theyre offering one; many shops will happily let you taste before you commit. These conversations often lead to the most memorable moments of your tour.

Document Your Experience

Take photosnot just of your ice cream, but of the shops interior, signage, and even the people behind the counter. Create a visual journal using your phone or a small notebook. Note the texture of the ice cream, the aroma, the first bite, and how it evolves as it melts. Did the sea salt caramel taste more buttery than expected? Was the mint chip unusually fresh? These sensory details will enrich your memory and help you compare shops later. If youre comfortable, share your experience on social media using hashtags like

DenverIceCreamTour or #CooperSIceCream to connect with other local dessert enthusiasts. Your posts may even inspire others to plan their own tours.

Best Practices

Start Early and Go Slow

The best time to begin your tour is between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. This avoids the midday rush, ensures the ice cream is at peak freshness (not softened from prolonged display), and gives you time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Rushing from shop to shop defeats the purpose of savoring the experience. Take your time. Sit down. Taste slowly. Let the flavors unfold. A well-paced tour is more satisfying than a frantic binge.

Order One Scoop at a Time

Resist the urge to order multiple scoops at once. Instead, order one scoop per visit, savor it completely, then decide if you want a second. This approach allows you to fully appreciate each flavors complexity and prevents palate overload. If you love a shops offering, return later in the day or on another visit for a second scoopthis strategy also helps you avoid waste and keeps your tour sustainable.

Balance Sweet with Savory

Ice cream is rich, and consuming it all day can feel overwhelming. Balance your tour with light savory snacks. Stop by a local bakery for a piece of sourdough or a cheese plate from Denvers Mercantile. Many shops offer complementary water or sparkling watertake advantage. If youre touring in the afternoon, consider ending your day with a craft soda or locally brewed kombucha to cleanse your palate.

Respect the Craft

Artisanal ice cream is made in small batches with high-quality ingredients. Avoid requesting modifications that compromise the integrity of the productsuch as asking for extra sprinkles on a delicate flavor like saffron rose or requesting to substitute a base milk without asking. These shops invest time and care into their recipes; showing respect enhances your experience and supports their business.

Visit During Off-Peak Days

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically the quietest days at most ice cream shops. Weekends, especially Saturday afternoons, draw large crowds. If your schedule allows, plan your tour on a weekday to enjoy shorter lines, more personalized service, and a calmer atmosphere. Many shops also offer weekday discounts or Taste of the Week promotions on slower days.

Bring Cash and Small Bills

While most shops accept cards, some smaller, family-run operations still prefer cash. Bring $20$50 in small bills to avoid delays at checkout. Its also courteous to tip if you receive exceptional service$1$2 per scoop is appreciated, especially if staff take extra time to explain flavors or offer samples.

Be Weather-Ready

Denvers weather can shift rapidly, even in summer. Pack a light jacket or umbrella, especially if youre touring in the morning or evening. Many shops have outdoor seating, and sudden rain showers are common in the Rockies. Also, be prepared for intense sunDenver enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually. Wear sunscreen and a hat to stay comfortable while walking between locations.

Support Local and Sustainable Practices

Look for shops that source ingredients locally, use compostable packaging, or partner with Colorado farms. Many of Denvers top ice cream makers highlight their sustainability efforts on their websites. Choosing these businesses supports the local economy and reduces environmental impact. Ask about their sourcingshops proud of their practices will be happy to share.

Involve Others in Your Planning

Invite friends or family to help you choose shops or vote on flavors. Group tours are more fun and often lead to unexpected discoveries. Assign roles: one person researches hours, another takes photos, a third keeps the budget log. This shared responsibility makes the planning process collaborative and the experience more memorable.

Tools and Resources

Google Maps and Custom Lists

Use Google Maps to create a custom list titled Denver Ice Cream Tour. Add each shop, pin its location, and include notes like open until 9 p.m., vegan options, or best for kids. Share the list with your travel companions so everyone can see the route in real time. Enable offline maps in case you lose cell service in mountain-adjacent areas.

Foodie Apps: Yelp, Zomato, and The Infatuation

Yelp remains one of the most reliable sources for recent reviews and photos. Filter by highest rated and recent to get current insights. Zomato offers detailed menus and pricing, while The Infatuations Denver guides often highlight underrated spots. Bookmark reviews that mention specific flavors or staff interactionsthey often contain goldmine details.

Instagram and TikTok for Real-Time Updates

Follow local ice cream shops on Instagram and TikTok. Many post daily flavor announcements, behind-the-scenes videos, and limited-edition drops. For example, Bluebird Ice Cream often posts Flavor of the Week teasers on Instagram Stories. TikTok hashtags like

DenverIceCream or #CoopersIceCream can lead you to viral treats you might otherwise miss.

Local Food Blogs and Podcasts

Subscribe to blogs like Denver Eats and Colorado Food Adventures for in-depth features on new openings and seasonal flavors. Listen to podcasts such as The Scoop by 5280 Magazine, which interviews ice cream makers about their craft. These resources offer context beyond ratings and menusthey tell the stories behind the scoops.

Denver Tourism Website and Chamber of Commerce

The official Denver tourism site, denver.org, has a curated Food & Drink section that includes ice cream tours as part of its Sweet Itinerary recommendations. The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce also publishes an annual Local Business Spotlight that highlights independent creameries receiving community support.

Weather and Altitude Apps

Use the AccuWeather app to track UV index and altitude-related conditions. At 5,280 feet, Denvers air is thinner, which can affect digestion and sugar absorption. Stay hydrated and plan your tour for days with moderate temperatures (6075F) for optimal comfort.

Journaling and Note-Taking Tools

Use apps like Notion, Apple Notes, or even a simple paper journal to record your impressions. Create a template with columns for: Shop Name, Flavor, Texture, Aroma, Price, Mood, and Would Return? This systematizes your experience and makes it easy to compare shops later.

Public Transit and Ride-Share Apps

Download the RTD app for real-time bus and train schedules. For ride-sharing, set up Uber and Lyft apps in advance to avoid delays. Consider using Lyfts Group Ride feature if youre traveling with three or more peopleits often cheaper than separate rides.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Family-Friendly Tour

Emma, a mother of two from Texas, visited Denver during summer break. She planned a 3-stop ice cream tour focused on fun, kid-friendly experiences. Her route: Little Man Ice Cream (for the iconic milk can photo op), then to Ice Cream Social (for the build-your-own sundae bar), and finally to Swirl Ice Cream (for its rainbow sprinkles and kid-sized scoops). She booked her visits for 11 a.m. on a Tuesday to avoid crowds. Her 7-year-old chose Unicorn Swirl at Little Man, while her 10-year-old picked Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch at Ice Cream Social. Emma brought a reusable cooler bag to carry extra scoops for the car ride back to their hotel. She documented the day with a photo album and later created a Denver Ice Cream Passport for her kids to collect stamps from future visits.

Example 2: The Vegan Foodie Adventure

Jordan, a plant-based chef from Portland, came to Denver specifically to explore vegan ice cream. Their itinerary included Bluebird Ice Cream (known for its cashew-based Chai Spice), Coconut Bliss (a Colorado-based brand with a downtown kiosk), and Just Desserts (a gluten-free bakery with house-made coconut milk gelato). Jordan used the Vegan Food Finder app to verify ingredients and contacted each shop in advance to confirm no cross-contamination. They ended their tour at a vegan caf in the RiNo district, pairing their final scoop with a cold-pressed beet juice. Jordan later published a detailed blog post titled Denvers Best Vegan Ice Cream: A 10-Flavor Deep Dive, which attracted over 15,000 readers and was featured in VegNews Magazine.

Example 3: The Craft Cocktail + Ice Cream Night

Mark and Lisa, a couple celebrating their anniversary, wanted a sophisticated evening. They began at Ice Cream Social in the Highlands, ordering a scoop of Bourbon Pecan and a craft cocktail called The Denver Mule. They then walked to Coopers Ice Cream for Denver Brown and a non-alcoholic sparkling elderflower soda. Their final stop was Churn, where they shared a Dark Chocolate Sea Salt sundae with edible gold flakes. They took their time, enjoyed live jazz music at Ice Cream Social, and ended the night with a quiet stroll through the city lights. They didnt take photosthey wanted to be fully present. The experience became their favorite Denver memory.

Example 4: The Locals Hidden Gems Tour

Carlos, a Denver native, decided to rediscover his city by visiting three lesser-known shops: Swirl in Lakewood (a 20-year-old family business), Cherry Creek Creamery (a tiny shop with flavors like Pecan Pie with Maple Bourbon Swirl), and Mountain Ice in Golden (a roadside stand using wildflower honey from the Rockies). He started at 10 a.m. on a rainy Thursday and had the entire place to himself at each stop. He learned that Cherry Creek Creamerys owner still churns every batch by hand and that Mountain Ice uses milk from a family-run goat farm. Carlos posted a short video on his Facebook page titled Denvers Best Ice Cream Youve Never Heard Ofit went viral locally and led to a feature in the Denver Post.

FAQs

Whats the best time of year to do a Denver ice cream tour?

Summer (JuneAugust) is peak season, with the widest variety of flavors and extended hours. However, late spring (May) and early fall (September) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Many shops begin offering seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice or cranberry in October, so even winter tours can be rewarding if youre interested in unique, holiday-inspired treats.

Can I do a Denver ice cream tour on public transit?

Yes. RTD buses and light rail connect most major neighborhoods. Use the RTD Trip Planner to map routes between shops. Some locations, like Little Man and Ice Cream Social, are within walking distance of transit stops. For shops farther out, combine transit with a short ride-share leg.

Are there dairy-free or vegan options in Denver?

Absolutely. Denver is a leader in plant-based desserts. Bluebird Ice Cream, Coconut Bliss, Just Desserts, and several pop-up vendors offer fully vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options. Always check ingredient lists if you have allergiesmany shops use shared equipment.

How many ice cream shops should I visit in one day?

Three to four is ideal. More than that can lead to palate fatigue and diminish your enjoyment. Quality over quantity ensures you truly taste and appreciate each flavor.

Do I need to make reservations?

Reservations are rarely required for walk-in scoops. However, if youre visiting with a group of six or more, its courteous to call ahead. Some shops offer private tasting events or custom flavor creation by appointment.

Is there a Denver ice cream tour I can join?

As of now, there are no official guided ice cream tours, but several local food tour companies offer customizable private experiences. You can also create your own using this guide for a more personal, flexible adventure.

What should I wear on an ice cream tour?

Dress comfortably in layers. Denvers weather can change quickly. Wear supportive walking shoes and bring a light jacket. Avoid dark clothing if you plan to take photoslight colors contrast better with colorful ice cream.

Can I bring my dog on an ice cream tour?

Many shops have outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. Little Man, Ice Cream Social, and Swirl all allow leashed pets on patios. Always check the shops policy before arriving.

Conclusion

Planning a Denver ice cream tour is more than a sweet indulgenceits a gateway to understanding the citys soul. Behind every scoop is a story: a family recipe passed down for generations, a farmers harvest turned into flavor, a young entrepreneur turning a garage into a dream. By thoughtfully selecting shops, pacing your journey, and engaging with the people who make it all possible, you dont just taste ice creamyou taste Denver. Whether youre a local rediscovering your city or a visitor seeking an authentic experience, this tour offers a deliciously unique perspective on one of Colorados most beloved treats. Use this guide as your map, your inspiration, and your permission to slow down, savor, and celebrate the simple joy of a perfectly made scoop. The best part? Theres always next summerand another flavor waiting to be discovered.