Scoop & Stroll: 5 Ice Cream Shops Only a Short Trip From Your Front Door

If there's one thing that makes the Florida heat truly sweet, it's a perfect scoop of ice cream enjoyed on a sunny afternoon. At The District at Clearwater, not only do you have all the luxury and comfort of resort-inspired living, but you're also tucked into a vibrant neighborhood with a host of nearby treats-especially when it comes to delicious desserts.

Whether you're a lover of classic cones, daring with whimsical flavors, vegan by choice, or seeking a fun outing for the whole family or your furry friend, Clearwater serves up some awesome spots within minutes. Here's our guide to five must-visit ice cream shops just a short trip from your apartment in Clearwater, FL.

Ice & Cream Creamery- A Classic Clearwater Experience

Located about ten minutes from The District at Clearwater, Ice & Cream Creamery is a neighborhood favorite that has earned its reputation for generous servings and creative flavors. You'll find everything from classic chocolate and vanilla to inventive options (think Guava Cheesecake or Toasted Coconut). The interior is reminiscent of a timeless parlour-perfect for casual dates, family nights, or picking up a pint for your own wraparound lanai at your 2-bedroom apartment.

Why Residents Love It:

• Fresh house-made ice cream and milkshakes
• Rotating selection of unique flavors
• Fun atmosphere for kids and adults alike

Crispy Cones- A European Soft Serve Delight

A quick drive through Clearwater gets you to Crispy Cones, an Ice Cream shop that has brought a delightfully unique twist to Clearwater's dessert scene. Specializing in fresh, warm European dough cones grilled to order and filled with smooth soft-serve ice cream, each freshly baked pastry cone gets dusted in sweet cinnamon sugar or crushed cookies, creating an unforgettable coastal treat for sweet lovers of all ages. The outdoor picnic tables make this pet-friendly spot a hit among District at Clearwater residents who want to treat their pups after a stroll around our community's beautifully landscaped walking paths.

Don't Miss:

• Add your own toppings
• Non-dairy, gluten-free, and vegan options
• Pet-friendly outdoor seating

Dairy Kurl- Old-School Florida Charm

No list of Clearwater's sweet spots would be complete without Dairy Kurl. This iconic walk-up stand takes you back to the golden age of Florida roadside treats. Locals rave about their perfectly swirled soft-serve, dipped cones, and classic banana splits. If you call The District at Clearwater home, Dairy Kurl is a fantastic tradition for post-beach days, after hitting the resident pool, or even just a quick dessert after dinner in your 1-bedroom apartment.

What to Try:

• Chocolate-dipped cones
• Peanut-butter parfaits
• Legendary hot fudge sundaes

The Mint Fox Cookies and Ice Cream - Sweet and Social

The Mint Fox Cookies and Ice Cream is a beloved Clearwater hot spot that elevates late-night cravings into a gourmet experience. Known for warm, freshly baked cookies paired alongside ultra-creamy ice cream, this local shop lets visitors craft custom ice cream sandwiches or enjoy signature scoops made with top-tier ingredients.

Features:

• Creative toppings bar and mix-ins
• Custom Cookie Ice Cream sandwiches
• Ideal spot to celebrate birthdays and milestones, just a stone's throw from home

Why Ice Cream Outings Are Even Sweeter at The District at Clearwater

At The District at Clearwater, luxury apartment living and Tampa Bay's best attractions are always close at hand. Imagine coming home after a treat-filled afternoon to your light-filled, hardwood-style floorplan, unwinding in your modern living room or on a private lanai. With floor plans ranging from efficient 1-bedroom to spacious 3-bedroom layouts-all featuring full-size washers and dryers and chef-inspired kitchens-living here means embracing both comfort and convenience.

Not only does our Clearwater location place you within easy reach of the beaches and excellent dining options, but you'll find pet-friendly amenities li