It's not summer anymore, but who says ice cream has a season?

The temperatures may be dropping, the leaves are changing, and sweater weather has officially arrived in Northern Virginia. But in Arlington, VA, a great scoop of ice cream is always in season.

Whether you're planning a family outing, looking for a casual date-night idea, or simply exploring the neighborhood, Arlington has plenty of sweet spots worth discovering.

And if you're thinking about moving to Arlington VA, these local favorites offer more than delicious desserts. They're a glimpse into what makes living here so special: walkable neighborhoods, vibrant communities, independent businesses, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy everyday life without traveling far from home.

From creative sundaes in Clarendon to homemade ice cream in Westover, here's your guide to some of the best ice cream shops in Arlington, Virginia.

What Are the Best Ice Cream Shops in Arlington, VA?

Arlington offers everything from traditional homemade ice cream to inventive flavors, extravagant sundaes, and dairy-free alternatives.

Here are seven local favorites worth adding to your list:

1. The Scoop N Scootery: The Ultimate Sundae Experience in Clarendon

Location: 1138 N Irving Street, Arlington, VA 22201

Best for: Date nights, late-night dessert runs, and anyone who believes there's no such thing as too many toppings.

If your idea of ice cream involves a little extra indulgence, The Scoop N Scootery deserves a spot on your Arlington bucket list.

This creative ice cream shop opened its Arlington, Virginia, location in June 2026, bringing its signature loaded sundaes to Clarendon.

Forget the ordinary scoop of vanilla.

The Scoop N Scootery specializes in elaborate ice cream creations featuring combinations of cookies, candy, cake, homemade frosting, whipped cream, and other delicious toppings.

With more than 70 sundae combinations, there's plenty to explore.

And here's what makes it even better: The Scoop N Scootery offers late-night ice cream delivery, making it a fun option when dessert cravings strike after dinner.

Why locals love the location:

Clarendon is one of Arlington's most energetic and walkable neighborhoods. With restaurants, shops, entertainment, and the Clarendon Metro station nearby, it's easy to turn a simple ice cream stop into an entire evening out.

Our Arlington lifestyle tip: Grab dinner in Clarendon, take an evening stroll along the neighborhood's lively streets, and finish with an over-the-top sundae.

It's the kind of spontaneous night out that makes living in a walkable community so appealing.

Website: www.thescoopnscootery.com

2. Toby's Homemade Ice Cream: A Family Favorite in Westover

Location: 5849 Washington Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22205

Best for: Families, classic ice cream lovers, and anyone exploring Arlington's quieter neighborhood shopping districts.

Some ice cream shops feel like part of the neighborhood's history.

Toby's Homemade Ice Cream is one of them.

Located in Westover, this beloved Arlington establishment serves homemade ice cream in a welcoming, casual setting.

You'll find familiar favorites alongside distinctive flavors such as Ube, Coffee Oreo, and Philippine Mango.

It's a wonderful place to bring the kids after school, stop by on a weekend afternoon, or enjoy a simple treat after exploring North Arlington.

Why Westover Is Worth Exploring

If you're moving to Arlington VA with your family, Westover is a neighborhood worth getting to know.

Unlike Arlington's busier urban corridors, Westover offers a more relaxed, neighborhood-centered atmosphere.

Its small commercial district features local restaurants, shops, and gathering spots, creating a sense of community that many homebuyers appreciate.

Imagine walking to grab ice cream on a Sunday afternoon, stopping for coffee, and running into familiar faces along the way.

That's the everyday charm of Westover.

Website: tobysicecream.com

3. Ice Cream Jubilee: Creative Flavors in the Heart of Ballston

Location: 4238 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22203

Best for: Families, friends, casual dates, and anyone who loves experimenting with new flavors.

Located inside Ballston Quarter, Ice Cream Jubilee brings an inventive twist to the traditional ice cream experience.

Known for its creative flavor combinations, this local favorite offers rotating selections that go beyond the usual chocolate and vanilla.

Depending on the season, you might discover flavors inspired by fruit, baked desserts, or unexpected ingredient combinations.

Why Ballston Is Perfect for an Ice Cream Outing

Ballston is one of Arlington's most convenient neighborhoods for combining shopping, dining, and entertainment.

You can spend an afternoon exploring Ballston Quarter, grab lunch, enjoy a scoop of ice cream, and continue your day without needing to drive between destinations.

For families, it's an easy way to plan an outing with multiple activities in one place.

For professionals and couples, it's equally appealing for a casual afternoon or spontaneous after-work treat.

Thinking about living in Ballston?

The neighborhood is particularly attractive to buyers who prioritize Metro access, condominium living, restaurants, and the convenience of having everyday amenities within walking distance.

Website: icecreamjubilee.com/ballston-mall

4. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams: A Sweet Date-Night Stop in Shirlington

Location: 4150 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206

Best for: Couples, date nights, weekend strolls, and dessert after dinner.

Looking for a simple but memorable date idea in Arlington?

Head to Shirlington.

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams is known for its rich, creative flavors and thoughtfully crafted ice cream.

But the real magic is its location.

The Village at Shirlington is one of Arlington's most charming pedestrian-oriented destinations, filled with restaurants, cafés, shops, and entertainment.

The Perfect Arlington Date-Night Idea

Start with dinner at one of Shirlington's restaurants.

Then stop by Jeni's for ice cream before taking a relaxed walk through the village.

Want to make an evening of it? Check the schedule at Signature Theatre for a performance.

No complicated itinerary required.

Just good food, a sweet treat, and a neighborhood designed for enjoying time together.

For couples considering moving to Arlington VA, Shirlington demonstrates how enjoyable everyday life can be when dining and entertainment are concentrated in a walkable village setting.

Website: jenis.com/blogs/scoop-shops/alexandria-va

5. Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream: Unique Flavors Near Pentagon City

Location: 1201 S Joyce Street, Arlington, VA 22202

Best for: Adventurous ice cream lovers, families, and anyone looking for something different.

If you enjoy discovering unexpected flavors, Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream should be on your list.

Located at Westpost near Pentagon City, Mimi's specializes in handmade ice cream with creative combinations influenced by different culinary traditions.

The shop offers ice cream, sorbet, and other frozen treats, including options for visitors seeking non-dairy choices.

One of the most enjoyable parts of visiting Mimi's is discovering flavors you might not find at a traditional ice cream shop.

Explore Pentagon City Beyond the Shopping Mall

Pentagon City is known for its shopping destinations, but the neighborhood also offers restaurants, residential communities, and convenient access to public transportation.

Mimi's makes a great dessert stop during a shopping day or neighborhood outing.

For buyers relocating to Arlington, Pentagon City and nearby National Landing are worth exploring if easy access to shopping, Metro stations, and Washington, DC is high on your priority list.

Website: www.mimishandmade.com

6. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream: A Walkable Treat in Clarendon, Ballston & National Landing

Arlington locations include:

• 2831 Clarendon Boulevard, Arlington, VA, Clarendon
• 4075 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA, Ballston
• 269 19th Court South, Arlington, VA, National Landing

Best for: Couples, friends, after-dinner walks, and anyone looking for dairy-free options.

Van Leeuwen brings its signature rich ice cream to several of Arlington's most walkable neighborhoods.

Known for classic flavors alongside creative combinations and vegan selections, it's an easy addition to an afternoon of shopping or an evening out.

What makes Van Leeuwen particularly convenient is its presence in several popular Arlington destinations.

You can grab a scoop while exploring Clarendon, enjoy dessert after dinner in Ballston, or stop by while spending time in National Landing.

Why This Matters When Moving to Arlington

One of Arlington's biggest lifestyle advantages is having multiple neighborhoods where residents can combine dining, shopping, transit, and recreation.

In areas like Clarendon and Ballston, grabbing ice cream doesn't necessarily require planning a separate trip.

It can simply become part of your evening walk home.

And sometimes, those little conveniences are what make a neighborhood feel like home.

Website: vanleeuwenicecream.com

7. La Moo Creamery: A Fun Ice Cream Experience for Families

Location: 2501 N Harrison Street, Arlington, VA 22207

Best for: Kids, families, and anyone who enjoys interactive desserts.

La Moo Creamery offers something a little different from the traditional ice cream counter.

This North Arlington shop specializes in Thai-style rolled ice cream, prepared with mix-ins and served in beautifully arranged rolls.

Watching the ice cream being made is part of the fun, especially for younger visitors.

The menu also includes other sweet treats and beverages, giving families plenty of choices.

A Sweet Stop in North Arlington

La Moo is located in the Lee-Harrison shopping area, surrounded by established residential neighborhoods.

While this part of Arlington has a different feel from the dense Metro corridors, it offers convenient neighborhood shopping and dining options.

It's a reminder that Arlington isn't just one type of community.

From urban condominiums to quieter residential streets, there's a wide range of lifestyles to explore.

Website: www.lamoocreamery.com

Best Arlington Ice Cream Shops for Families, Couples, and Weekend Adventures

Not sure where to start? Here are our picks based on the experience you're looking for.

Best for Families With Kids

Toby's Homemade Ice Cream and La Moo Creamery

Toby's offers classic neighborhood ice cream shop charm, while La Moo adds an entertaining twist with its rolled ice cream creations.

Both make fun stops for a weekend family outing.

Best for a Casual Date Night

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams in Shirlington

Pair your ice cream with dinner and a stroll through The Village at Shirlington.

It's an easy, relaxed date that doesn't require traveling into Washington, DC.

Best for Late-Night Ice Cream

The Scoop N Scootery in Clarendon

When you're craving dessert after a night out, The Scoop N Scootery offers elaborate sundaes and late-night service.

Best for Exploring a Walkable Neighborhood

Ice Cream Jubilee in Ballston or Van Leeuwen in Clarendon

Both are located in lively neighborhoods where you can easily combine ice cream with shopping, restaurants, and other activities.

Best for Adventurous Flavors

Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream

If you enjoy trying something unexpected, Mimi's rotating selection makes every visit a little different.

What Are the Most Walkable Neighborhoods in Arlington, VA?

If you're considering moving to Arlington VA, walkability might be one of the biggest factors influencing your home search.

Arlington offers several neighborhoods where restaurants, cafés, shopping, and entertainment are within walking distance of many homes.

Here are four areas worth exploring.

Clarendon: Restaurants, Nightlife & Metro Convenience

Clarendon is known for its energetic atmosphere, restaurants, shops, and convenient Metro access.

Residents of centrally located apartments, condominiums, and townhomes can often walk to coffee shops, grocery stores, fitness studios, and dessert spots.

Ice cream stop: The Scoop N Scootery or Van Leeuwen.

Ballston: Urban Convenience & Entertainment

Ballston combines residential high-rises, office buildings, restaurants, and shopping.

Ballston Quarter and the surrounding streets provide plenty of options for dining and entertainment.

Ice cream stop: Ice Cream Jubilee or Van Leeuwen.

Shirlington: A Village Atmosphere

Shirlington offers a pedestrian-friendly commercial district with restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

It's particularly appealing to people who enjoy having a neighborhood destination for dinner, coffee, or an evening stroll.

Ice cream stop: Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams.

Westover: Neighborhood Charm

Westover offers a smaller, more traditional neighborhood shopping district.

Its local businesses and relaxed atmosphere create a different experience from Arlington's urban centers.

Ice cream stop: Toby's Homemade Ice Cream.

A note for homebuyers: Walkability can vary significantly from one street to another, even within the same neighborhood. If walking to restaurants, schools, parks, or Metro stations matters to you, it's important to evaluate specific homes rather than relying on a neighborhood's general reputation.

Why Moving to Arlington, VA Is About More Than Finding a Home

When people start researching moving to Arlington VA, they often focus on home prices, commute times, schools, and transportation.

Those are all important considerations.

But there's another question worth asking:

What will everyday life actually feel like here?

Will you be able to walk to your favorite coffee shop?

Is there a neighborhood restaurant where you can become a regular?

Can you take the kids out for ice cream without turning it into an all-day excursion?

Are there places nearby where you can enjoy a spontaneous date night?

These small details can make a meaningful difference in how much you enjoy your community.

Arlington offers a variety of lifestyles within a relatively compact area, from Metro-accessible urban neighborhoods to established residential communities and quieter local shopping districts.

That's why finding the right home isn't just about bedrooms, bathrooms, or square footage.

It's also about finding the neighborhood that fits how you want to live.

At KS Team, we help buyers explore both the homes and the communities that make Northern Virginia such a desirable place to live.

Whether you're relocating from another state, buying your first home, or searching for more space, our team can help you compare Arlington neighborhoods based on your lifestyle, priorities, and long-term goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ice Cream and Living in Arlington, VA

What is the best ice cream shop in Arlington, VA?

Some popular ice cream shops in Arlington include Toby's Homemade Ice Cream in Westover, Ice Cream Jubilee in Ballston, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams in Shirlington, Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream near Pentagon City, and The Scoop N Scootery in Clarendon. The best choice depends on whether you prefer traditional scoops, creative flavors, or elaborate sundaes.

Where can families get ice cream in Arlington, VA?

Toby's Homemade Ice Cream in Westover, La Moo Creamery in North Arlington, and Ice Cream Jubilee in Ballston are good options for family ice cream outings. Each offers a different experience, from classic flavors to rolled ice cream and creative combinations.

What are some fun date ideas in Arlington, VA?

A simple Arlington date night can include dinner in Shirlington followed by ice cream at Jeni's, or an evening exploring Clarendon's restaurants before visiting The Scoop N Scootery. Ballston also offers dining and dessert options in a walkable setting.

Where can you get ice cream late at night in Arlington?

The Scoop N Scootery in Clarendon is known for its late-night sundae service and delivery. Some other Arlington ice cream shops also offer evening hours. Always check current hours before visiting.

Is Arlington, VA a walkable place to live?

Yes, many parts of Arlington are highly walkable, particularly areas near Metro stations such as Clarendon, Ballston, and National Landing. Shirlington also has a pedestrian-friendly village center. However, walkability varies by neighborhood and individual property.

Is Arlington, VA a good place to move?

Arlington is an attractive option for buyers seeking proximity to Washington, DC, public transportation, restaurants, parks, and a variety of housing options. Whether it's the right fit depends on your budget, commute, preferred housing style, and lifestyle priorities.

What should I know before moving to Arlington, VA?

Before moving to Arlington, compare neighborhoods, housing costs, transportation options, property types, and access to the amenities that matter most to you. Working with a local real estate team can help you identify communities that align with your needs.

Thinking About Moving to Arlington, VA? Let's Find Your Perfect Neighborhood.

A great neighborhood isn't just where you live.

It's where you build routines, discover favorite places, and create everyday memories.

Maybe it's a Friday night ice cream date in Clarendon.

A Saturday afternoon with the kids in Westover.

Or a relaxed evening walking through Shirlington.

These are the experiences that make Arlington feel like home.

At KS Team, we know that choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the right property.

Whether you're moving to Arlington for work, searching for your first home, or looking for a home that better fits your lifestyle, we're here to help.

Ready to discover where you belong in Arlington?

Explore available Arlington homes, compare neighborhoods, and connect with our local real estate experts.

Search Homes in Arlington, VA: kerishull.com/home-search/listings

Schedule Your FREE Arlington Homebuyer Strategy Session: kerishull.com/contact

Call KS Team: (571) 487-8060

Because finding the perfect home is about more than the house itself. It's about finding a community where even the simplest moments feel a little sweeter.