Whether you want a sundae or a cone, gelato or hand-scooped, here are some of the best places for incredible ice cream in the city.

Washington, D.C., is known for its delicious food – and this includes artisanal ice cream of all types and flavors. Before you head out to try some of these, grab your stretchy pants!

1. Dolcezza Gelato Factory and Coffee Lab

Address: 1418 14th Street NW | Washington, D.C. (multiple locations) 

You can’t get ice cream more creamy and delicious than at Dolcezza Gelato Factory and Coffee Lab. Made in-house fresh every morning, you will surely not be disappointed with its namesake treat. Since everything is so fresh, the menu changes everyday. I guarantee you’ll find something you’ll love!

Courtesy of Dolcezza

2. Milk Cult

Retailers: Union Kitchen Grocery (multiple locations)

This D.C. favorite is known for their handmade ice cream and their blocky ice cream sandwiches. You'll find Milk Cult products at a number of venues including Union Kitchen Grocery!

Courtesy of Milk Cult

3. Thomas Sweet Ice Cream

Address: 3214 P St. NW | Washington, D.C.

At Thomas Sweet, you can get delicious ice cream in a wide variety of flavors and blend-ins. Their attention to detail including premium ingredients is what makes their ice cream so memorable. Don't forget to try some of their handmade chocolates as well.

Courtesy of Thomas Sweet

4. Pitango Gelato

Address: 660 Pennsylvania Ave. SE | Washington, D.C. (multiple locations)

The organic ice cream at Pitango Gelato is made with milk from grass-fed cows. Does it get any fresher? The owner spent his summers in Trieste, Italy, and that’s where his inspiration came from to open the shop. Their ice cream and sorbet is not made with excessive fats and sugars, making it naturally delicious. 

Courtesy of Pitango Gelato

5. Ice Cream Jubilee

Address: 301 Water Street SE | Washington, D.C. (multiple locations)

It’s all in the name. Owner Victoria Lai believes that eating ice cream is meant to be a happy time and one shared by those you love. That is why she created these adorable shops to indulge in your favorite sweets. Ice Cream Jubilee is known for its seasonal flavors, international flair, and special events. They make their waffle bowls and cones fresh, so be prepared to have your mind blown.

Courtesy of Ice Cream Jubilee

6. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

Address: 1925 14th Street NW | Washington, D.C.

Sometimes you just want to take your deliciousness home for later. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams serves up unique flavors like sweet cream biscuits and peach jam (yes, that's ONE flavor), Gooey Butter Cake, and every wino's favorite, Frosé Sorbet. Yum! Eat it there or grab a pint – either way, you'll be swooning!

Courtesy of Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

As you can see, you have a wide range of options if you're looking for a unique frozen treat in the city. Head to one of these D.C. favorites and let us know what you think!

Did your go-to spot make the list? Are we missing anyone? Let us know in the comments!