Frozen Treats for Sweet Moments in East Tennessee
Whether you prefer your ice cream in a waffle cone, piled high in a bowl, blended into a milkshake, or served as a classic banana split, one thing is certain- summer is sweeter in the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee. After a day of hiking scenic trails, paddling quiet coves, exploring charming downtowns, or spending time on the water, there’s no better way to cool off than with a frozen treat.
Fortunately, the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee is home to plenty of places to satisfy your sweet tooth. Discover everything from nostalgic soda fountains and hometown ice cream shops to handcrafted gelato, frozen custard, shaved ice, snoballs, and internationally inspired desserts. Whether you’re planning an East Tennessee lake vacation or simply looking for the best ice cream near the lake, these local favorites are the perfect stop for a refreshing summer treat.
From family outings to weekend getaways, every adventure is a little sweeter with ice cream waiting at the end. Here are some of the best places across the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee to beat the heat and enjoy a taste of summer.
Cruze Farms–Downtown Knoxville, East Knoxville, Morristown & Sevierville
This popular ice cream spot features fresh churned ice cream made with milk from Jersey Cows at a local Dairy Farm. Servers wear signature red and white checkered uniforms. Flavors change regularly
The Creamery on Broadway- Newport
Frozen coffee concoctions and ice cream creations make this a go to before a trek in the Smokies or traveling the East Tennessee Crossing Byway
Tic Toc Ice Cream Parlor– Loudon
Step inside the store and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. This beloved ice cream spot churns out at least two dozen flavors. While there, take time to stroll through this historic downtown district.
Burr-Ville Sweet Treats- Clinton
One of the relatively new places to enjoy frozen treats is located near Historic Downtown Clinton. In addition to cups and cones of ice creams, Burr-Ville also serves up over the top milk shakes. Enjoy your frozen creations in the nice seating area outside featuring swings and tables.
The Chunky Monkey– Clinton
If you’re enjoying time at Norris Dam State Park or riding the Norris Area Trails, the Chunky Monkey isn’t too far way. Located along Highway 61, this walk-up ice cream shop and grill features a wide array of treats from scoops and blasts to malts and shakes.
Tinsley- Bible Drug Store– Dandridge
When you are in the second oldest town in Tennessee, the allure of getting ice cream at an old-fashioned drug store soda fountain is irresistible. The Tinsley-Bible Drug Company on Gay Street has been serving the Dandridge and Jefferson County area since the early 1900s.
Hoskins Drug Store- Downtown Clinton
In the mood for a banana split or a milkshake while antique shopping in Downtown Clinton? Step down the street and walk up to the counter or grab a booth at Hoskins Drug Store. This business has been in the same family for more than 80 years and is a hot spot for ice cream treats, burgers and more.
Baby Razzleberry’s –Oak Ridge
This long-time fixture in Historic Jackson Square features a variety of ice creams made with cream and natural flavorings
Tellico Beach Drive Inn–Tellico Plains
Heading out on the Cherohala Skyway? Then make a stop at this local spot for ice cream treats and food. Outdoor picnic tables along river.
Tanners Historic Café- Wartburg
In the heart of Wartburg, you’ll find this local eatery in a building that’s more than 100 years old. In addition to serving up ice cream, milkshakes and fruitshakes, you can also get breakfast and lunch there.
Mugs– LaFollette
Home of over-the-top creations like Fruity Pebbles and Sugar Overload Freakshakes, this ice cream stand is sure to have a flavor to savor during the summer after a day of play on Norris Lake.
La Michoacana- Lenoir City & Knoxville
Downtowns with ice cream shops are always a hit on hot summer days and in Lenoir City, this place puts a Mexican twist on frozen treats served up in a colorful and vibrant atmosphere. You’ll also find a location in Knoxville.
Frosty Freeze- Tazewell
A giant neon ice cream cone has been guiding people to this small drive-in since the 1950s. Located on old U.S. 25-E (East Tennessee Crossing Byway) the Frosty Freeze serves up classic ice cream dishes and made to order hot foods.
Sweetwater Valley Farm-Philadelphia
Hand dipped shakes, cheese cafe, and cows… What else do you need to get more local?
The Original Freezo- Knoxville
Located in Knoxville’s “Happy Holler” neighborhood, this business has been a part of the community since 1942. Known for its soft serve ice cream and milkshakes, The Original Freezo also serves up a wide variety of hot foods.
Loli and Bobos– Knoxville
Hand scooping ice cream from Wisconsin, Unique flavors, rotating seasonally.
Peaceful Side Creamery– Townsend
Locally sourced ingredients and colorful flavors. Enjoy a treat with served up with the peaceful backdrop of the Smokies.
Sweet P’s Snowball Shack- Clinton
The New Orleans style snowball is alive and well at this small establishment in Clinton. Choose from dozens of flavors from Mardi Gras King Cake to Hurricanes. You can also get smoothies, milkshakes and slushies.
Indulge!
