When the North Carolina weather warms up, there’s a good chance you’ll find my husband and me searching for our next sweet treat. There’s something so simple and special about loading the family (and sometimes the dogs!) into the car, grabbing ice cream, and spending time together. Sometimes it turns into an after-dinner tradition, a weekend outing, or a spontaneous reward after a long day, but ice cream always seems to make memories a little sweeter. As a Winston-Salem family photographer, I spend a lot of time exploring the area and chatting with local families about their favorite places around town. And, when it comes to the best ice cream shops, Winston-Salem has no shortage of amazing spots serving everything from classic scoops to creative frozen treats. If you’re looking for the best ice cream shops in Winston-Salem, here are some family-friendly favorites worth adding to your list.
10 Family-Friendly Ice Cream Shops In Winston-Salem, NC
Sam’s Ice Cream
2434 Lewisville Clemmons Rd, Clemmons, NC 27012
Sam’s Ice Cream is one of our family’s personal favorites. The owner and staff are incredibly friendly, and the customer service keeps us coming back time and time again. One thing we especially appreciate is their commitment to offering genuine dairy-free options. Since my husband is lactose intolerant, finding delicious alternatives can be challenging, and Sam’s has been wonderful about meeting those needs. They even added dairy-free milk choices for milkshakes after hearing customer requests. Another bonus for families is the small outdoor play area with picnic tables. When we’re short on time, the convenient drive-thru is a lifesaver. It’s those thoughtful details that make Sam’s stand out.
Twin City Sweets
2594 W Clemmonsville Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27127
Twin City Sweets has developed a loyal following among local families, and it’s easy to see why. Their creative sundaes and specialty treats make every visit feel a little extra special. The outdoor setting is one of the biggest draws. Families can enjoy plenty of seating while kids stay entertained with yard games and play areas. The atmosphere feels more like a neighborhood gathering place than a typical ice cream stop. Their themed weekends add another layer of fun, giving families a reason to come back throughout the year to see what’s new.
Chill Nitro
616 W 4th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
If your family enjoys trying something unique, Chill Nitro should definitely be on your list. Rather than serving traditional scooped ice cream, Chill Nitro creates made-to-order frozen treats using liquid nitrogen. Watching your dessert being made is part of the experience, making this a fun outing for both kids and adults. With customizable flavors, toppings, and dairy-free options available, everyone can create something they love. Located downtown, it’s also a great stop while exploring Winston-Salem together.
Mayberry Ice Cream Restaurants
50 Miller St A, Winston-Salem, NC 27104
If you’re craving a classic ice cream parlor experience, Mayberry Ice Cream delivers exactly that nostalgic charm. With dozens of flavors available and plenty of traditional treats like sundaes, shakes, and banana splits, Mayberry feels like the kind of place families have been visiting for generations. The old-fashioned atmosphere makes it a fun destination for grandparents, parents, and children alike. It’s a wonderful reminder that sometimes you don’t need anything fancy to create a great family memory.
TJ’s Deli & Grill
5017 Country Club Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27104
While many people know TJ’s for its food menu, it’s also a great spot to satisfy a sweet tooth after a meal. This local favorite gives families the opportunity to enjoy lunch or dinner and follow it up with a frozen treat all in one stop. The laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly environment make it an easy choice for casual evenings together.
Cupcake Cuties Cafe & Bakery
8363 NC-109 Unit C, Winston-Salem, NC 27107
Dessert lovers will feel right at home at Cupcake Cuties Cafe & Bakery. Known for its baked goods and sweet treats, this spot combines bakery favorites with frozen desserts, making it easy to satisfy multiple cravings at once. If you’re stopping in for a celebration or simply enjoying a fun afternoon with the kids, there’s always something tempting waiting behind the display case. The cozy atmosphere also makes it a great option for gathering with friends or family.
Buddy Scoops Ice Cream
12640 Old US Highway 52, Winston-Salem, NC 27107
Buddy Scoops is all about fun. From towering sundaes to thick milkshakes, this shop has built its reputation on serving exciting desserts and creating memorable experiences. Families love the playful atmosphere and wide variety of options available. If you’re celebrating a birthday, sports victory, or simply surviving another busy week of parenting, Buddy Scoops offers plenty of reasons to treat yourself.
Zack’s Famous Frozen Yogurt
305 Jonestown Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27104
Sometimes frozen yogurt is exactly what you’re craving, and Zack’s has long been a local favorite. Their extensive topping selections and frozen yogurt flavors make it easy for everyone in the family to create their perfect dessert; kids especially love customizing their topping choice! The casual atmosphere keeps things relaxed, making it a great stop after school activities, shopping trips, or family dinners.
Dream Kreams
102 W 3rd St Ste 102, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Located downtown, Dream Kreams offers handcrafted ice cream creations that feel both creative and approachable. The shop focuses on unique flavors and artisan-quality desserts, making it a wonderful choice for families looking to try something a little different. The inviting atmosphere, handcrafted approach, and variety of creative flavor combinations make it a memorable stop for families exploring downtown together.
Dollops Ice Cream
1351 Lewisville Clemmons Rd, Lewisville, NC 27023
Dollops is a hidden favorite that’s worth the short drive. This family-owned shop offers both classic ice cream favorites and unique frozen treats inspired by Indian desserts. The result is a menu that feels fresh, exciting, and full of variety. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly service make it easy to see why so many local families continue coming back for another scoop.
Make Family Memories One Scoop at a Time At These Ice Cream Shops In Winston-Salem, NC
One of my favorite things about being a Winston-Salem family photographer is discovering local businesses that help families slow down and spend quality time together. If you’re enjoying a quick cone after soccer practice, celebrating a milestone, or simply soaking up a summer evening, these ice cream shops in Winston-Salem, NC provide the perfect setting for creating memories.
If you’re looking for more family-friendly activities, local recommendations, and resources around the Triad, be sure to check out the other blogs on the website. And if you’re ready to preserve your own family’s memories with beautiful, relaxed photographs, I’d love to help. Reach out today to book your family photoshoot and capture this season of life before it slips by.
