Top 11 ice cream shops in Downtown San Antonio
Discover the delightful world of "ice cream shops in Downtown San Antonio." From classic American flavors to unique international varieties, these establishments offer a sweet escape in the heart of the city. Indulge in a scoop (or two!) and uncover the coolest spots for a frosty treat in Downtown San Antonio.
1. Mr Ice Cream
Handcrafted ice cream, pet-friendly patio

The service at this establishment appears to be a mixed bag, with some customers praising the friendliness of the staff and others criticizing them for being rude or ignoring customers. It's clear that there is a variation in the level of service provided, which can be frustrating for patrons who expect a consistent experience.
Moving on to the River Walk, it's a popular spot for visitors and locals alike, offering stunning, great, and cool views. Many people enjoy taking a leisurely stroll along the river while enjoying a delicious ice cream cone. The scenic beauty of the area is undeniable and is a major draw for tourists and residents looking to spend time in a beautiful natural setting.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Gluten-Free
2. Lick Honest Ice Creams
Honest ingredients, exceptional flavors, and sustainable practices

The first sandwich in question is described as overrated and having unsatisfactory flavors. The texture of the sandwich is also criticized as being mushy. Additionally, the inside of the sandwich is said to be icy, which detracts from the overall experience.
In contrast, the Caramel Salt Lick ice cream in a chocolate waffle cone is highly praised. The ice cream itself is described as delicious, but the addition of a chocolate waffle cone elevates the experience to new heights. In fact, it is described as being one of the best experiences in the reviewer's life. The combination of the caramel and salt flavors with the richness of the chocolate cone creates a truly memorable dessert.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
3. Justin's Ice Cream Co
Made from scratch, unique flavors

An ice cream shop, situated near the Riverwalk, offers a pleasing experience with its thick and slowly melting ice cream. Uncommon flavors are available, and one such option is the Almond ice cream, which is quite delightful.
The pricing of the ice cream is reasonable and matches the quality of the food. The shop does not offer anything extraordinarily special but provides a decent and enjoyable experience for those looking for a nice ice cream treat.
TOPICS
- Hidden Gems
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
4. Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Shop in Downtown San Antonio
Indulgent, handcrafted, and allergy-friendly options

The Häagen-Dazs® Ice Cream Shop in San Antonio, TX, offers a wide selection of delicious ice cream that leaves customers in awe. The store's location is on the Alamo Plaza, attached to the Menger hotel and next to the Alamo, a popular tourist destination. With such a busy location, the employees work tirelessly to keep up with the demand.
According to 283 reviews, customers rave about the fantastic ice cream served at this Häagen-Dazs® location. The store's popularity is evident in the high volume of reviews, with customers sharing their experiences and opinions. Regular updates and additional information are available to help potential customers make informed decisions about visiting the shop.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Vegetarian Options
5. South Alamode Panini & Gelato Company
Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food

San Antonio has a new and unique addition to its food scene with South Alamode Gelato, which is one of the few stand-alone true gelato places in the city. Compared to Paciugo, a gelato chain, South Alamode offers superior quality gelato. For those who enjoy a variety of flavors, South Alamode has a range of fruit, non-dairy, chocolate, and dairy options.
The interior of South Alamode Gelato boasts a cozy, rustic, and airy ambiance. Customers can expect friendly service, with the option to sample all the flavors before ordering. A large cup for $8 allows customers to choose four flavors. Standout flavors include Mexican chocolate, blackberry ricotta, nutella marscopone, and a unique strawberry flavor with an additional component. South Alamode Gelato uses locally sourced ingredients and offers fresh, delicious flavors without overloading on sweetness.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Italian Cuisine
6. Paleteria San Antonio
Family-owned, local favorite, artisanal popsicles

The ice cream shop offers affordably priced treats, with items ranging from $2.25 to $3. My son, Zen, was particularly fond of the establishment and encouraged me to write a review. During our visit, he and my daughter enjoyed a Watermelon popsicle and a strawberry one, both of which received high praise.
The staff at the shop were friendly and welcoming, engaging in pleasant conversation with us during our visit. Zen and my daughter were delighted by the attentive service and the opportunity to try delicious ice cream flavors. Despite the limited number of customers at the time, the quality of the service and products remained top-notch. Overall, our experience at the ice cream shop was a positive one, thanks to the reasonable prices, tasty treats, and friendly atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
7. Francesco's Gelato
Authentic Italian gelato in the heart of San Antonio

The gelato flavors we tried, including pineapple, creamy mango, dark chocolate, and hazelnut, were enjoyable and satisfying. However, the pina colada drink did not meet our expectations and fell short in taste.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Vegetarian Options
8. Boozy's Creamery & Craft
Alcohol-infused flavors, dog-friendly patio

The ice cream shop in question boasts a fabulous atmosphere, with a fantastic selection of unique flavors to choose from. The owner and staff are reportedly wonderful, contributing to a positive experience. However, the author's expectations may have been a bit too high, as they were hoping for a little more. Despite this, they recommend the ice cream for those interested in trying something with a hint of alcohol.
The ice cream itself is a standout feature, with the author using the word "yummy" five times in their description. While they were anticipating something extraordinary, they acknowledge that the ice cream is still worth trying for those looking for a boozy treat. The shop's excellent atmosphere, kind staff, and unique selection make it a worthwhile destination for ice cream lovers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
9. Kilwins
Nostalgic candy store experience

The ice cream servings we received were generous, with single scoops resembling double scoop sizes. The prices for the delicious treats were reasonable and not overpriced. The ice cream itself is noteworthy, characterized by its exceptional softness and creamy texture. The variety of flavors is impressive, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
In addition to ice cream, the establishment offers an array of other sweet treats. They sell chocolates and fudge for those who prefer classic sweets. For those seeking a refreshing beverage, they have floats on the menu. They also offer cakes and dipped goods for special occasions or simply for an indulgent treat. A personal favorite is their caramel apples, which combine the tartness of the apple with the sweetness of the caramel in a delightful way.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
10. Amigos in Downtown San Antonio
Live mariachi music on weekends

The ice cream and corn served were not fresh and had an unpleasant, old taste. This was an unpleasant dining experience.
Amigos is a food service establishment where customers can go to enjoy a variety of food and drink options. The menu includes a range of items, from individual dishes to beverages and meals. Some menu items that seem affordable at a food service may end up being more costly to make at home.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
11. Ben & Jerry’s
Iconic brand with eco-friendly initiatives

Ben & Jerry's, situated in the midst of the River Walk's many restaurants, is an excellent spot to enjoy an after-dinner treat. While the service may not be the most enthusiastic, it is sufficient to get you your ice cream. The store offers a variety of flavors, with mint chip being a popular choice, especially in a waffle cone.
This Ben & Jerry's store is a smaller establishment located in a busy area and offers the same flavors found in grocery stores. During peak periods, service can be slow, but it is generally quick and satisfactory. What sets this store apart from grocery store selections is the availability of sundaes and shakes, making it a great spot for a sweet treat.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Vegetarian Options