Overland Park's Top Cold Treats
When the Kansas sun turns up the heat, there’s nothing quite like a cold treat to cool you down.
Local shops serve everything from scoops packed with nostalgic flavors to handcrafted paletas and dairy-free options that everyone can enjoy. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up a few favorites you’ll want to check out.
The Golden Scoop
The Golden Scoop pairs small-batch ice cream with a bigger purpose. The shop employs and mentors very talented individuals who happen to live with a disability as “Super Scoopers” behind the counter. Guests can choose from rotating flavors, seasonal specials, and dairy-free options, all served in a warm, welcoming setting that reflects the spirit of the community.
The Paleta Bar
The Paleta Bar brings a customizable twist to frozen desserts with paletas made fresh daily. Guests start with a traditional Mexican popsicle in flavors like mango, strawberry, or cookies and cream, then add dips, drizzles, and toppings to build their own creation. The result is a colorful treat that feels both playful and indulgent, perfect for cooling off after a day exploring Downtown Overland Park.
Betty Rae's Ice Cream
Betty Rae’s has earned a loyal following with ice cream that balances creativity and nostalgia. The menu ranges from classics like cookies and cream to inventive flavors such as lavender honey or cereal milk, all made in small batches. Guests can enjoy their scoops in house-made waffle cones, piled into sundaes, or even sandwiched between cookies for a treat that feels both familiar and new.
Summer Salt Ice Cream
Summer Salt Ice Cream keeps things local with small-batch flavors crafted right in Overland Park. The shop is known for its rich, creamy texture and its commitment to offering options for everyone, including vegan and gluten-free choices. Flavors rotate often, so each visit brings a new excuse to stop in for a scoop.
I Am Frozen Dessert Cafe
Betty Rae’s has earned a loyal following with ice cream that balances creativity and nostalgia. The menu ranges from classics like cookies and cream to inventive flavors such as lavender honey or cereal milk, all made in small batches. Guests can enjoy their scoops in house-made waffle cones, piled into sundaes, or even sandwiched between cookies for a treat that feels both familiar and new.
Flying Cow Gelato
In 2024, The Flying Cow Gelato Shop officially opened its doors! They serve frozen gelato, a healthier alternative to frozen yogurt. The team makes it fresh every day, and complete your orders with freshly chopped toppings of your choice. This is the only location that is open year-round, so be sure to check it out as you're exploring Downtown OP.
Tad's Shaved Ice
Tad’s Shaved Ice delivers summer in a cup with heaping servings of finely shaved ice drenched in bright, flavorful syrups. With dozens of combinations on the menu, guests can go classic with cherry or lime or branch out with tropical blends that taste like vacation. The colorful treats are as fun to look at as they are to eat, making Tad’s a go-to stop when the heat sets in.
Sweet Caroline's
Sweet Caroline’s is a shop where ice cream meets candy in colorful, nostalgic ways. Patrons browse shelves of novelty treats, chocolates, and handmade fudge before choosing a scoop or two of ice cream to enjoy in house or take home. The décor leans vintage sweet-shop meets modern dessert corner, making each visit feel like stepping into something fun and familiar.
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream has been serving its signature recipes since 1945, and now Overland Park gets a taste of the tradition. The shop near Oak Park Mall offers a lineup of 48 flavors every day, with everything made fresh on site. Choices range from classics like chocolate and butter pecan to creative scoops such as Black Raspberry Chunk or Cinnamon Graham Cracker.
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