The Absolute Best Ice Cream in Gastonia [Updated 2025]

Having sampled an array of flavors from local gems to beloved chains, I've reviewed a total of 12 unique establishments.

Each spot showcases its own distinct twist on this beloved frozen treat, making it an adventure for my taste buds.

From classic vanilla to exotic creations, I’ve found something special at each location.

Join me as we delve into the delightful world of ice cream in Gastonia, where every scoop tells a story!

Floyd & Blackie's

Highlights
Exceptional service
Flavorful ice cream
Variety of ice cream options
Must-try affogato
Amazing ambience and atmosphere

Floyd & Blackie's in Gastonia is an absolute gem for anyone craving a scrumptious scoop of ice cream! As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by their exceptional service, which immediately set the tone for a delightful visit. The cozy vibe of the shop made me feel right at home, creating the perfect backdrop for indulging in sweet treats.

The range of flavorful ice cream options is truly impressive, with inventive flavors that cater to every palate. I dived into their signature affogato—a delightful combination of creamy vanilla ice cream topped with a shot of rich espresso. It was a heavenly experience, perfectly balancing the sweetness and richness that I crave.

Considering the variety of flavors, from classic favorites to exciting limited-time offerings, my only regret was not being able to try them all! The ambience here makes enjoying ice cream even more special, encouraging you to savor each mouthful while soaking up the lovely surroundings.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best ice cream in Gastonia, Floyd & Blackie's should be at the top of your list. You'll leave with a smile and a craving to return for more delightful scoops!

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Two Scoops Creamery Plaza Midwood

Highlights
Rich and flavorful homemade ice cream
Unique flavor selection
Custom ice cream cakes available
Large variety of options
Friendly and welcoming staff

Two Scoops Creamery Plaza Midwood is an absolute gem and a delightful addition to the ice cream scene in Gastonia. Walking into the shop felt like stepping into an ice cream wonderland, with an array of colors and scents promising something special. Their rich and flavorful homemade ice cream is a game changer—you truly can taste the love and care that goes into each batch!

What really sets this place apart is their unique flavor selection. I indulged in the lavender honey flavor—an unexpected but harmonious blend that danced on my palate. The texture was creamy and smooth, melting perfectly with every bite. For those celebrating special occasions, the option to create custom ice cream cakes adds an exciting twist that visionaries of dessert shouldn't miss.

But let’s not forget the friendly and welcoming staff; they genuinely make the experience more enjoyable. When you can pair delightful ice cream with a warm smile, it’s the cherry on top! For anyone seeking a delicious adventure in Gastonia, Two Scoops Creamery is where you’ll find both happiness and flavor in every scoop. Grab a cone, and let the magic unfold!

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Pelican's SnoBalls

Highlights
Delicious cotton candy flavor
Generous with flavoring
Family-friendly atmosphere
Part of the MRK family

Pelican's SnoBalls is a delightful find in the heart of Gastonia, where each visit feels like a mini carnival for your taste buds! As I stepped in, the vibrant colors and cheerful ambiance immediately captured my attention. The family-friendly atmosphere made it a perfect spot for both kids and adults alike to indulge in sweet treats.

Now, let me tell you about their ice cream—it’s not just your average scoop! I opted for the fantastic cotton candy flavor, and oh my stars, it was like childhood nostalgia captured in a cup. The generous amounts of flavoring they add ensure every bite is a vibrant burst of sweetness. I relished the creamy texture that danced on my palate, blending perfectly with the delightful toppings available.

What makes Pelican's even more charming is its connection to the MRK family, known for their commitment to quality and community. It’s clear they pour their heart into every creation. So, if you find yourself wandering the streets of Gastonia, make sure to stop by Pelican's SnoBalls for a scoop (or two) of pure joy. You won't regret it!

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Bumblebee Creamery

Highlights
Old-fashioned ice cream shop
Unique rotating flavors
Gluten-free options available
Rich and creamy gelato
Thoughtful customer service

Bumblebee Creamery, an old-fashioned ice cream shop nestled in the heart of Gastonia, captured my heart (and tastebuds) during my visit. Stepping inside, I was immediately enveloped by the delightful aroma of freshly made waffle cones. The place is known for its unique rotating flavors, making each visit an adventure. I couldn’t resist trying the lavender honey, which was a whimsical blend that danced on my palate with floral notes.

What truly sets Bumblebee apart is their commitment to inclusivity; they offer a variety of gluten-free options that delighted my gluten-sensitive friend. As for their gelato? Rich and creamy doesn’t even begin to describe it. I sampled the dark chocolate—each spoonful was a heavenly indulgence that melted effortlessly in my mouth.

Beyond the delectable flavors, the thoughtfulness of the customer service made my experience even more enjoyable. The staff was warm and welcoming, eager to provide recommendations tailored to my tastes. If you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth or escape the everyday grind, Bumblebee Creamery is a must-visit. It's not just ice cream; it's a delightful journey in every scoop!

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Two Scoops Creamery McAdenville

Highlights
Unique and delicious flavors
Friendly staff
Plenty of seating options
Dairy-free options available
Best ice cream in Gaston County

What a delightful escapade I had at Two Scoops Creamery McAdenville! Nestled in the heart of Gastonia, this charming spot truly lives up to its name, offering not just one but two scoops of happiness in every serving. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by a friendly staff that welcomed me with warm smiles and enthusiastic recommendations.

The real magic, however, lies in their unique and delicious flavors. From classic favorites to inventive creations, every scoop seems crafted with a hint of whimsy. I couldn't resist trying the lavender honey flavor—it was a luscious balance of floral notes and rich sweetness, a delightful surprise!

Plus, for those with dietary restrictions, fear not; they have a solid selection of dairy-free options that don’t skimp on flavor. Their ample seating makes it a cozy place to enjoy your treat while chatting away with friends.

Without a doubt, Two Scoops Creamery has earned its title as the best ice cream destination in Gaston County. If you’re in the area, don’t just take my word for it—indulge and experience the joy for yourself!

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Dreamery Creamery

Highlights
Generous portion sizes
Fantastic customer service
Quick and efficient service
Delicious ice cream flavors
Reasonably priced options

When I stepped into Dreamery Creamery, I was immediately enchanted by the vibrant atmosphere and delightful aromas wafting through the air. Their generous portion sizes alone make it feel like a treasure trove of sweet treats! I opted for the salted caramel and cookie dough flavors, and let me tell you—each bite was a heavenly experience!

What truly stood out was the fantastic customer service. The staff was not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable about the flavors, which made choosing a scoop a thrilling adventure. I was promptly served, thanks to their quick and efficient service—even during the peak hours, the line moved smoothly.

The flavors themselves are where Dreamery Creamery shines the brightest. Each scoop was rich, creamy, and bursting with taste, ticking off all boxes for a perfect ice cream experience. Plus, with prices being reasonably priced, it’s great to indulge without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for the ideal place to satisfy your sweet cravings in Gastonia, I wholeheartedly recommend Dreamery Creamery. It’s a dream come true for ice cream lovers! 🍦

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Carolina Scoops

Highlights
Best ice cream in town
Super friendly staff
Amazing selection of flavors
Affordable pricing
Generous portions

Stepping into Carolina Scoops feels like entering an ice cream lover's paradise. The vibrant colors of the shop instantly lift your spirits, and you're greeted by the super friendly staff who genuinely seem to enjoy serving up smiles along with their ice cream. I was impressed by their amazing selection of flavors, ranging from classic vanilla to tantalizing unique options like lavender honey. It took me a moment to decide, but I eventually settled on a scoop of their seasonal peach—perfectly creamy and bursting with flavor.

One of the standout features of Carolina Scoops is their generous portions; my single scoop was almost enough to share! As someone who values quality without breaking the bank, I found their affordable pricing absolutely delightful. It’s hard to believe that such a high-quality treat can come at such a great value!

All in all, my experience at Carolina Scoops was a joyous one. If you're on the hunt for the best ice cream in town, do yourself a favor and drop by this charming spot—you'll leave with both a full belly and a happy heart!

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Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams

Highlights
Rich, Creamy Dark Chocolate
Cute Indoor and Outdoor Space
Half-Scoops to Try More Flavors
Long Lines Indicate Popularity
High-Quality Ingredients Used

At Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, the first thing that struck me was the inviting atmosphere, both inside and out! The cozy decor adds a charming touch, providing the perfect backdrop for choosing your ice cream. I opted for a rich, creamy scoop of Dark Chocolate, and let me tell you, it was a heavenly experience that danced on my palate. The indulgent flavor was deep yet balanced, showcasing the high-quality ingredients Jeni's is known for.

One delightful feature is the option for half-scoops – this was a game changer, allowing me to experiment with multiple flavors in one visit. I couldn’t resist trying a few more, and this made my taste buds sing with joy!

While the lines can be long, they speak volumes about Jeni's popularity among residents and visitors alike. It's a testament to the quality and creativity of their offerings, ensuring you won’t be disappointed after the brief wait. If you find yourself in Gastonia and are on the hunt for the best ice cream, I wholeheartedly recommend stopping by Jeni's. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

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Cold Stone Creamery

Highlights
Friendly and attentive service
Issues with order accuracy
Manager responsiveness lacking
Mixed experiences reported
Enjoyable whipped cream option

Cold Stone Creamery in Gastonia is a delightful pit stop for any ice cream aficionado. From the moment I entered, the friendly and attentive service welcomed me like a warm scoop of chocolate fudge. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, and I could hardly wait to dive into my sweet adventure. I decided to treat myself to their signature mix-ins, expertly crafted right before my eyes on a cold stone.

However, amidst the fluffy whipped cream and tantalizing flavors, I encountered some hiccups. A few issues with order accuracy left me scratching my head over my unexpected toppings. Unfortunately, I found the responsiveness of the management to be somewhat lacking when I sought clarification. Nonetheless, the creamy texture of their ice cream made it easy to forgive small mistakes.

Despite mixed experiences reported by fellow patrons, I can confidently say that Cold Stone still offers a memorable ice cream experience. The flavors are rich and vibrant, and their whipped cream option is a delightful addition. If you’re on the hunt for a fun ice cream escapade in Gastonia, stop by Cold Stone—just keep an eye on your order!

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Tony's Ice Cream

Tony's Ice Cream in Gastonia is an absolute delight! From the moment I stepped inside, the nostalgic ambiance whisked me back to carefree summers. Their homemade flavors stand out, particularly the rich and creamy butter pecan—a true showstopper! Each scoop is a celebration of texture and taste, melting effortlessly in my mouth. The friendly staff adds to the charm, serving up smiles with every cone. Don’t miss their iconic root beer float—it's simply magical! If you're hunting for the very best in Gastonia, Tony’s is a must-visit, where delicious memories are made one scoop at a time!

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Handel's Homemade Ice Cream

At Handel's Homemade Ice Cream, every scoop feels like a delightful journey! Their rich and creamy texture is a standout, with flavors that resonate like a soft serenade. I indulged in their signature Buckeye Brownie, a divine mix of chocolate and peanut butter that danced on my palate. The charming atmosphere added to the experience, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a sweet treat. Their commitment to quality ingredients is evident, ensuring every bite is pure joy. If you’re in Gastonia and craving something cold and luscious, Handel's should definitely be your destination!

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Sweet Scoops

Tucked away in a vibrant corner of Gastonia, Sweet Scoops offers a delightful escape for ice cream enthusiasts. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a kaleidoscope of flavors that danced playfully across the menu. I opted for their signature Cookies and Cream, which was a luscious blend of creamy goodness and generous cookie chunks. Each bite was a celebration of crunch and cream—a true delight for the senses! The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for families and friends to enjoy a sweet treat. Sweet Scoops undoubtedly stands as a top contender for the best ice cream in town!

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