Dive into a dessert on National Ice Cream Day
President Ronald Reagan made some world-changing decisions during his time in office, but my favorite might be his choice to declare the third Sunday in July “National Ice Cream Day.” I can’t think of a more appropriate way to celebrate the summer.
You can dust off that ice cream maker that’s been gathering dust in your garage, or you can support your local sweets shop by purchasing a shake, scoop, or sundae. Not sure where to go? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Located in the Seminole Heights neighborhood, Bo’s has been around for over half a century. If you’re in a hurry to get home you can use the convenient drive-thru window, or get to know your neighbors at an outdoor picnic table. Everything’s tasty, but if you’re looking for a unique experience try the upside down banana split.
Bo’s is located at 7101 N. Florida Avenue in Tampa.
This shop feels old even though it’s only been around since 2002. The ice cream is delicious; chocolate lovers should consider the Rocky Road or Marty’s Mix. Sweets n’ Treats is especially fun for kids because of the incredible candy selection. Forgotten treasures like clove glum, Lemonheads, Mary Jane’s, and Valomilk sit comfortably alongside Hershey and Nestle standbys.
Sweets n’ Treats is located at 10641 Gulf Blvd. in Treasure Island. It’s in the shopping center with Gigi’s across from the Bilmar Beach Resort.
The only thing better than fresh ice cream might be ice cream topped with homemade hot fudge sauce. Or ice cream and cake. Or ice cream fashioned into a pie. Or…
Forgive me for fantasizing. But you can make all those fantasies a reality and Strachan’s. Minty ‘grasshopper pie,’ fudge, brownies, and of course ice cream make this shop very popular with Palm Harbor residents. Bill and Susan Strachan are even generous enough to share their secrets with you; if you’re interested in opening your own ice cream shop, you can enroll in their 3-day Ice Cream School to learn more about the business.
Strachan’s is located at 105 Palm Harbor Blvd. in Palm Harbor.
Fun fact: About 9% of all milk produced by U.S. dairies is used to make ice cream. By eating ice cream today you’re helping the U.S. economy! Info courtesy of the
International Dairy Foods Association.
Recommend your favorite Tampa Bay ice cream shop here in the comments or find me on Twitter!