
Hot Days, Cold Scoops
July 2026
Article by Kara Schwalbe
What screams summer more than a family outing for a cold treat on a sweltering evening? Here are 10 Billings spots with frozen goodies you have to try.
Softies
Seasonal | 2407 Broadwater Ave
A beloved Billings’ classic steeped in nostalgia. Ordering soft serve at the walk-up window is a local milestone that brings back every summer memory. The menu features flavor-burst edges, dipped cones, refreshing slush mixes, and their signature "Bliz-it" mix-in cups.
Spinners
Open year-round | 3031 Grand Ave
With 12 rotating soft-serve and frozen-yogurt flavors and dozens of toppings, this is the ultimate destination for "create-your-own-masterpiece" types. Since everything is sold by weight, you can let your creativity soar!
Big Dipper
Open year-round | 100 N Broadway,
A Downtown fixture serving handcrafted hard ice cream, sundaes, and shakes. Choose from their selection of classic or rotating specialty flavors.
Town & Country Foods
Open year-round | 1603 Grand Ave
Don’t overlook the grocery store for a great selection of Wilcoxson’s. A Huckleberry ice cream sandwich is the quintessential Montana treat.
Aloha Coffee & Hawaiian Shave Ice
Seasonal | 3925 Grand Ave
This drive-thru serves Hawaiian shave ice made with homemade simple syrup and concentrates from the islands. Grab one to enjoy in their picnic area at a nearby park like Landon’s Legacy or Rimrock West.
Candytown USA
Open year-round | 1025 Shiloh Crossing Blvd
Step back in time at this old-fashioned soda fountain and ice cream parlor. Look for weekly discounts like Milkshake Monday or Sundae Sunday.
Brockel's Chocolates
Open year-round | 117 N 29th St
While primarily a chocolate shop, they offer hand double-dipped, chocolate-coated ice cream bars in a couple of different flavors. The perfect pick-me-up while you’re wandering downtown.
The Local Berry
Open year-round | 605 24th St W Suite 4
Originally a food truck, this storefront has been a Billings staple since 2023. They serve made-to-order acai bowls for a healthier, refreshing alternative.
Crispy Cones
Open year-round | 1001 Shiloh Crossing Blvd #7
See what the hype is about at this new shop in Shiloh Crossing. Freshly grilled dough cones are lined with a creamy spread, dusted with sugar, and piled high with soft-serve ice cream and your favorite toppings.
Banano
Open year-round | 1001 Shiloh Crossing Blvd
Founded right here in Billings, this Shiloh Crossing shop serves real-fruit smoothies and frozen yogurt for those seeking a lighter frozen treat.
Gelavita
Open year-round | 520 Wicks Lane
The newest “craveable” treat in town: gelati. Delicious layers of smooth Italian ice and frozen custard, all made fresh in-house. This shop pairs cool treats with a fun, chill atmosphere built for hanging out. They’re even developing high protein options, giving you every excuse to make this your regular neighborhood pit stop.
Originally printed in the July 2026 issue of Simply Local Magazine
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