Top Picks for Cool Summer Treats in Austin

Beyond the cooling oasis of local swimming spots, Austin’s neighborhood shops have just the remedy to beat the heat — indulge in refreshing, cold treats. Check out our list of top dessert destinations dishing out delicious sweets to combat the Texas sun.

Gati Ice Cream

Favorite by: Heidi Okla, Editor-in-Chief

Gati offers some of the best vegan ice cream around! Chef Jam Sanichat and her team make small-batch, coconut milk-based ice creams using the highest quality ingredients. You cannot go wrong with a scoop of their chocolate ice cream, but they offer a rotating selection of flavors and all are delicious!

Poppi

Favorite by: Morgan Seminaro, Media Coordinator

Traditional diet sodas are out and Poppi is in! Whether you use it as a mixer in your mocktail/cocktail or drink it straight from the can, Poppi brings nostalgic flavors with new age ingredients and benefits, plus the packaging is just as fun as the flavors. My favorite flavors are Root Beer and Strawberry Lemon, but I can’t wait to get my hands on their newest flavor, Wild Berry.

Amy’s Ice Creams

Favorite by: Krissy LittleStar Hearn, Publisher

Since their first shop on Guadalupe opened 40 years ago, Amy’s Ice Creams has been growing alongside Austin with 14 locations around town. My kids love watching the ice cream scoopers juggle, toss, and serve up unique flavors and toppings and I don’t have to miss out because both of their signature flavors, Belgian Chocolate and Mexican Vanilla, are available in vegan options. My personal favorite combo is Mexican Vanilla with crushed Oreos!

Juiceland 

Favorite by: Cassie Butterfield, Associate Editor

For years Juiceland has remained an iconic hub for juice and smoothie enthusiasts in Austin. With numerous locations scattered across the city, Juiceland is the ultimate go-to spot for those craving refreshing and healthy beverages and snacks. Whether you’re embarking on a juice cleanse, seeking an immunity boost, or simply indulging in a fruity dessert, Juiceland is perfect to satisfy your cravings. My all-time favorites are the Wundershowzen (almond milk, banana, spinach, hemp protein, peanut butter) and Bam Bam (pineapple, almond milk, banana, mango, almond, hemp protein, spirulina, coconut oil).

Suerte

Favorite by: Georgie Miller, Brand Strategy Director

A meal at this East Austin favorite is not complete until you’ve had Chef Dereck Flynn’s version of the beloved ice cream classic. Suerte’s spin on the classic is infused with their signature Mexican flavors and cooking techniques. The mouthwatering ice cream treat is made with a cinnamon semifreddo enclosed in a chocolate masa waffle cone shell, rich peanut caramel and topped with roasted peanuts. 

Kitty Cohen’s

Favorite by: Ashley Sauls, Account Executive

Experience the epitome of summer refreshment with Kitty Cohen’s Dreamsicle—a frozen cocktail with a delightful blend of creamy goodness and citrus zest. Indulge poolside for the quintessential summer vibe, where the cool sweetness of this treat harmonizes perfectly with the retro charm of the cocktail lounge ambiance.

RELATED: The Best Margaritas in Austin

Lick Honest Ice Creams

Favorite by: Liz Harroun, Contributing Editor

With three locations around town, Lick offers honest ice creams for refined pallets. With various seasonal flavors made with locally sourced ingredients, including dairy-free and vegan options, there’s something for everyone. Try out their unique seasonal flavors that incorporate fresh, in-season locally sourced ingredients. And don’t miss out on getting your scoop in a waffle cone, which are rolled daily from their homemade recipe.

Lou’s

Favorite by: Rachel Staples Tieleman, Art Director

The best post-bike ride around Lady Bird Lake treat is Lou’s Vanilla Frozen Custard with Rainbow Sprinkles. With its creamy texture and vibrant sprinkles, their frozen custard is the ultimate reward for a summer’s day of outdoor adventure.

Prana Café

Favorite by: Isabel Neumann, Editorial Intern

Prana Cafe in East Austin is the ultimate spot to cool down on a hot summer day with their refreshing smoothies. They serve a variety of drinks and snacks, including coffee, tea, fresh juices, pastries, and toasts, all made with fresh ingredients. With thoughtfully crafted drinks named after affirmations to align your chakras, Prana Cafe offers a unique and relaxing way to beat the heat.