As the last days of summer roll in, there’s no better way to stay cool than with an icy treat. From New Orleans-style snoballs to Asian-inspired shaved cream, here are the best snow cone spots in the USA to get your fix.
Hansen’s Sno-Bliz (New Orleans, Louisiana)
This James Beard Award-winning shaved ice spot has been a hotspot since it opened in 1939—just a few years after Ernest Hansen built the city’s first electric ice-shaving machine. Today, Hansen’s legacy is carried on by his granddaughter, who’s modernized the joint with innovative flavors while honoring its roots. Order strawberry shortcake or honey lavender and top it off with crushed fruit or marshmallow fluff. Expect long lines when you go; it typically spills out the door onto the street.
Hula Girls Shaved Ice (Huntington Beach, California)
Hula Girls is known for blending Hawaiian shaved ice traditions with creative, gourmet touches. Ready to find out why this SoCal gem is a preferred caterer for big names like Disney and the NFL? Order the Ube soft-serve with cheesecake bites or the Shark Attack snow cone – Blue Hawaii shaved ice with Tigerblood syrup, a gummy shark, and a Sour Patch Kid “victim.” Craving something chocolatey? Try The Matterhorn, a pineapple soft-serve treat topped with a hard shell of chocolate.
Oasis Shaved Ice (Cocoa Beach, Florida)
Conveniently located right off the dazzling Cocoa Beach shoreline, Oasis is a family-owned shop serving up classic snow cone flavors made with real sugar and homemade syrups. Order a fan favorite like blue raspberry or birthday cake. They also serve ice cream, burgers, and hot dogs to ensure that every craving is satisfied. Pro tip: try your shaved ice stuffed with ice cream or topped with marshmallow fluff for an extra indulgence.
Detroit Water Ice Factory (Detroit, Michigan)
This snow cone spot garnered widespread acclaim for its philanthropic model—100% of the profits go to SAY Detroit, a charity that supports Detroit locals in need. Detroit Water Ice Factory offers more than 20 “water ice” flavors, from Riverfront Root Beer to Salted Margarita to Mr. Mitch’s Chocolate Peanut Butter. Treat yourself to a Motown Twist – your choice of water ice topped with vanilla or chocolate soft serve. Craving a savory treat? Order a Philly pretzel or a bag of gourmet popcorn.
SnoWhat Snoballs (Louisville, Kentucky)
Louisville’s first snoball truck, SnoWhat Snoballs, is known for its authentic New Orleans-style shaved ice in unique flavors like Cucumber Lime, Vanilla Cupcake, and Pink Champagne. Choose your favorite, then complete the look with edible glitter and a color-changing cup for an Instagram-worthy dessert. Don’t be afraid to ask for a few samples—the staff is happy to oblige. Bringing a furry friend? Order the pup cup; it’s a blend of chicken broth and shaved ice.
Vampire Penguin (Sarasota, FL)
Despite being relatively new on the scene, this spot has quickly become a local favorite for its originality. Vampire Penguin is not your average snow cone joint—they transform shaved ice into gourmet desserts. Looking for a safe bet? Order the Strawberry Shortcake, one of the most popular items on the menu. Prefer something with a kick? Consider the Mexican Candy – mango snow topped with fresh watermelon, Chamoy sauce, tajin, and caramel.
Snopocalypse (Valdosta, Georgia)
With more than 65 flavors of snoballs, there’s truly something for everyone at Snopocalypse. There are even milkshakes and ice cream for visitors craving something creamier! Feeling adventurous? Try the dill pickle snoball, or keep it simple with a classic like blue raspberry, butterscotch, or pineapple. With spacious interiors and ample seating, this family-run spot is the perfect place to take a break from the South Georgia heat and indulge.
Tropical Sno (Phoenix, Arizona)
Since 2005, Tropical Sno has been a place of refuge from the scorching Arizona sun. The popular dessert spot is known for its high-quality, true-to-life flavors. Choose from more than 40 starting flavors, then mix and match to create your own concoction. Not up to the challenge? Opt for one of the clever menu creations like Mastermind (cranberry, margarita, and mango) or Tahitian Treat (piña colada, guava, and orange).
Wailua Shaved Ice (Portland, Oregon)
For a taste of the islands without leaving the mainland, head to Wailua Shaved Ice. The shop serves Hawaiian-style shaved ice with creative flavors and fruit toppings served in a small, bustling space. Beyond ice, you can order candy, mochi, and even CBD tea if you’re looking to relax. Want a dessert you can flex on social media? Order the Lava Flow (pineapple juice, Haupia Foam, strawberry puree, fresh strawberry & pineapple) for a treat that’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is tasty.
