10 Ice Cream Spots in Akron and Canton that Will Soothe Your Sweet Tooth

There's no doubt about it — ice cream is the most universally adored dessert around. Whether you're a chocoholic or a sorbet lover, there's possibly no better way to end a hot summer afternoon than with an overflowing cone of your favorite flavor. Although, we've been known to enjoy some mint chocolate chip on winter evenings as well — mmm mmm good. Luckily, Akron and Canton are two of the best spots in the state to settle into a cozy booth and enjoy homemade flavors in an old-timey atmosphere. In fact, many of the shops in the area have been around since the 1930s or earlier! Next time you're screaming for a sundae, a split or a shake, peruse this list. We're sure you'll find something to satisfy your sweet tooth.

AKRON

Chill Ice Cream

Photo courtesy of Chill Ice Cream

Step into this swanky spot in downtown Akron for heaping portions of ice cream in unique flavors! If you really want to get vanilla here, it'll be one of the best scoops of vanilla you've had, but it would be a shame to pass up the pineapple habañero sorbet, the raspberry chocolate donut, the vegan blueberry cardamom or the sea salt caramel truffle. Make sure to get your own scoop — we doubt your companion will share. Trecaso's Mary Coyle Ice Cream & Italian Foods

Photo courtesy of Trecaso's Mary Coyle

This Akron staple may serve hearty Italian fare, but the real show stopper here is the ice cream. Trecaso's Mary Coyle has been perfecting its rich and buttery ice cream recipes since it opened in 1937, and it certainly shows! Opt for a banana bowl (we recommend the U.S. Mint, with mint chocolate chip ice cream, hot fudge, crushed nuts and fresh bananas), or a perfect peach showboat (with peaches, marshmallows and crushed nuts) — these creations are anything but simple. Once you've chosen, settle into the patio with your dessert and enjoy people watching on the historic Highland Square.   Strickland's Frozen Custard

Photo courtesy of Strickland's Frozen Custard

Bill and Florence Strickland opened Strickland's Frozen Custard in 1936, offering their own simple recipe of cream, eggs, sugar and flavorful ingredients. Shortly afterward, Bill developed a machine to batch freeze the ice cream while limiting the air whipped into the product — the result is rich and satisfying. The location has since expanded into a small chain throughout Ohio and as far as Irvine, California, but this Akron hot spot has not lost any of its character or its flavor. Stop in for a treat and a blast from the past. Biggins' Big Dip

Photo courtesy of Biggins' Big Dip

Located just outside of Akron in Portage Lakes, Biggins' Big Dip offers great flavors, hearty portions, and an overall incredible value for your money. Make your choice between a shake, split or sundae, and settle down in the shade outside. You'll enjoy a charming atmosphere, a fantastic view of the lake and friendly service. Pav's Creamery

Photo courtesy of Pav's Creamery

Pav's Creamery is usually busy (especially on warm summer afternoons), but the desserts are well worth the wait. Indulge in decadent flavors including chocolate-covered strawberry, chocolate peanut butter pretzel, key lime pie and German chocolate cake, but the list doesn't stop there. Whether you're a fruit lover or a chocoholic, you're sure to find something worth loving on the menu. Bonus: Stop in for happy hour and enjoy a boozy adult shake.  

CANTON

Taggarts

Photo courtesy of Taggarts

Established in 1926, Taggarts has since made a name as a Canton landmark. When you stop in (and you should soon), expect a heavy dose of 1920s' charm, complete with high-backed booths that invite you to stay awhile. Once you're settled, you can enjoy a meal (burgers, reubens and the like), or indulge in a gigantic, smothered sundae or banana split. The loyal customer base and out-of-town clientele is a testament to the quality of the food as well as the service. Almost Heaven Ice Cream

Photo courtesy of Almost Heaven Ice Cream

The ice creams at this charming shop are just as heavenly as the name suggests! Almost Heaven Ice Cream is home to more than 30 homemade flavors, all of which are served in delectable sundaes, blasts, shakes and ice cream sandwiches. You really can't go wrong, but we recommend sampling a flavor of the week — these range from s'mores and key lime pie to blueberry cheesecake and sugar-free moose tracks. Have a great idea for a new flavor? Fill out a form, and your idea could be the next flavor of the month! Milk and Honey

Photo courtesy of Milk and Honey

The historic Milk and Honey offers an experience and an atmosphere that is almost (read: almost) as incredible as the ice cream itself. Stop in for a decadent sundae or old-fashioned banana split topped with flavorful fruits, candies and sauces, and of course finished with a hefty dollop of whipped cream. After you're done, explore the shop and pick out a few candies to take home with you. Country Cones

Photo courtesy of Country Cones

The colorful exterior and southern charm of Country Cones draws in locals and visitors alike to enjoy a friendly (and delicious) ice cream outing. If you're in the mood for something savory, you can choose between country classics like smothered ribs, macaroni & cheese, and hot dogs, but don't leave without a sweet treat — the homemade ice cream is the perfect way to finish a meal or a sunny day on the town. Scoops Ice Cream & Food

Photo courtesy of Scoops Ice Cream

Scoops Ice Cream opened in 2009, and while it's one of the newer shops in town, it has still established itself as a town favorite. The no-frills shop offers incredible service, a friendly atmosphere, and just plain delicious ice cream. You'll enjoy bringing the family here on a summer afternoon, or settling down at an outside table with a few friends. If you're in the mood for something more than just ice cream, Scoops offers one of the best Phillys around — just make sure to save room for dessert.

How Sweet it Is To Have So Many Great Ice Cream Shops!