As we make our way through the doggiest days of summer, you might find yourself looking for some relief from the heat. That could mean a trip to a Wichita ice cream shop or drink stop where chilly treats await.
In the Heart of the Country, you’ll find plenty of options, from root beer floats to ice-cold smoothies.
Gelato fans will love the quality at Elderslie Farm and the flavor selection at Cocoa Dolce (Bradley Fair, Downtown or New Market Square). Find delicious ice cream in Wichita at Bakesale Treat Parlor and Jimmie’s Diner. Don’t forget to add creamy custard from Andy’s Frozen Custard (College Hill, East and West) to your list. Or, head to the first Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers in the country.
NuWay
Head to the original NuWay Burgers in Wichita, which is still operating in its original 1930 location on West Douglas Avenue, for a creamy, delicious root beer float. The root beer is made in-house using a proprietary recipe that has been a closely guarded secret since the restaurant opened. Taste it for yourself to see why it’s a beloved classic.
Papa’s Ice Cream & Treats
Papa's Ice Cream & Treats isn’t home of the extreme shake for no reason. Their over-the-top milkshakes start with rich ice cream and are stacked high with a variety of toppings such as Oreo cookies, donuts, cheesecake, a Moon Pie and Cinnamon Toast cereal. The Confetti Cake Explosion comes with a giant piece of cake on top!
The COOP
If something light and refreshing is what you crave, then order a Fruit Fizz from The COOP. The ingredients are simple: mineral water and fruit puree. Choose from strawberry, banana, mango, peach, berry or watermelon.
Old Mill Tasty Shop
Sit at the vintage soda fountain counter to watch an Old Mill Tasty Shop’s soda jerk make one of their legendary milkshakes or malts the old-fashioned way. They blend premium ice cream with malted milk powder, milk, and flavored syrups for a taste that has withstood the test of time.
Fartleks
On a quest for post-workout refreshment? Fartleks in historic Delano is the perfect fit. They offer a wide range of delicious and nutritious smoothies, made from fresh, high-quality ingredients. Keep it simple with their 5K Finisher, which includes strawberry, banana and apple juice, or treat yourself to the Runners High, made with strawberry, pineapple, vanilla protein, flaxseed, chia seeds and apple juice.
Insomnia Cookies
Open as late as 3 a.m. Thursday through Saturday, Insomnia Cookies is your go-to for late-night sweet treats. Try their Cookie’wiches, a decadent sandwich that has two scoops of ice cream between two warm cookies. They also offer ice cream in pints and warm cookies and brownies served with creamy ice cream in a cup.
White Crow Cider Company
If you need a jolt of energy with your chilly treat, try one of Wichita’s many coffee shops for iced espresso drinks or blended energy drinks. You can also cool off with a hard cider from White Crow Cider Company or a hand-crafted cold one from a Wichita brewery. Browse more dining options and start planning your tasty getaway to the Heart of the Country.
