When the Illinois summer sun starts blazing and the humidity kicks in, nothing cools you down (or makes your day sweeter) like a big scoop of ice cream. Luckily for Gurnee, IL residents, there’s no shortage of incredible spots to satisfy your frozen treat cravings. Whether you’re into classic cones, over-the-top sundaes, frozen yogurt, or dairy-rich indulgence, Gurnee has a little bit of everything to help you chill out and treat yourself.
From nostalgic neighborhood shops to nationally loved favorites, these five ice cream spots in Gurnee offer flavor, fun, and that perfect summer escape.
Original Rainbow Cone at Portillo’s
Yes, you read that right—Original Rainbow Cone, a legendary Chicago staple, has made its way to Gurnee via Portillo’s, and it’s a must-visit. This famous dessert features five colorful and flavorful slices of ice cream—chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (New York vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet—all layered in one cone. It’s a beautiful, nostalgic creation that dates back to 1926 and has delighted generations.
Located inside select Portillo’s locations, including the one near Gurnee Mills, this treat offers both a taste of history and a visual delight perfect for Instagram. The combination may sound unusual at first, but one bite will show you why this quirky cone has become a beloved Chicago tradition.
TCBY at Gurnee Mills
Looking for something lighter? TCBY (The Country’s Best Yogurt) inside Gurnee Mills is a frozen yogurt lover’s paradise. With options like soft-serve and hand-scooped froyo, non-dairy sorbets, and even no-sugar-added flavors, there’s something here for every diet and craving.
Top your cup with fresh fruit, chocolate chips, or go wild with candy pieces—build your own dream sundae and stroll the mall while staying cool. TCBY is great for families, especially those with dietary needs, as it offers a variety of healthy options without sacrificing taste. It’s a smart way to stay cool without feeling guilty.
Dockside Ice Cream
If you’re in the mood for a true local gem, Dockside Ice Cream should be at the top of your list. Located just minutes from Gurnee in nearby Wadsworth, this charming seasonal ice cream stand is worth the short drive. With a vintage dockside theme and plenty of outdoor seating, it’s a great stop after a day at the park or out on the boat.
Their hand-dipped ice cream flavors are rich and creamy, and the sundaes, banana splits, and shakes are old-school perfection. Dockside’s cozy, small-town vibe makes it a local favorite and a great spot for kids and date nights alike.
Oberweis Dairy
If you’re in the mood for premium, ultra-creamy ice cream, Oberweis Dairy in Gurnee delivers indulgence with every scoop. Known for its farm-fresh milk and traditional recipes, Oberweis has been crafting dairy delights since 1927. The ice cream here is made with high butterfat content, giving it that rich, velvety texture that just melts in your mouth.
From Black Cherry and Chocolate Peanut Butter to tried-and-true Vanilla Bean, the flavor options are classic and crowd-pleasing. Don’t miss their famous milkshakes—thick, old-fashioned, and served in chilled glasses. Oberweis is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down and enjoy the sweet life.
Carvel Ice Cream
You can’t talk about ice cream in Gurnee without mentioning Carvel, located on West Grand Avenue. Known for their soft-serve and iconic ice cream cakes, Carvel is a nostalgic favorite that delivers on flavor and fun. Whether you’re picking up a treat after a long day or grabbing a cake for a celebration, this spot knows how to please a crowd.
Their soft-serve cones are silky smooth, and their toppings—from rainbow sprinkles to hot fudge—make customizing your dessert a blast. Carvel is a reliable favorite with a long-standing reputation for creamy, flavorful fun for birthdays, barbecues, or a spontaneous ice cream craving.
Wrap-Up
From iconic layered cones and rich frozen custards to health-conscious froyo and local favorites, Gurnee, IL is filled with sweet spots to help you survive and thrive in the summer heat. Whether you’re shopping at Gurnee Mills, heading home from a park day, or just treating yourself on a Tuesday, these five ice cream shops offer something for every taste and every member of the family.
And while you’re making summer memories, don’t forget about the upkeep on your home, especially your garage door! If your garage door is acting up or could use an upgrade, Overhead Garage Door is here to help. Serving Gurnee and the greater Chicago area, our team offers reliable garage door repair and installation services to keep your home running smoothly, so you can focus on the important stuff, like which flavor you’re getting next.
Photo by Lama Roscu on Unsplash