In the heart of Colorado’s Yampa Valley, summer in Steamboat Springs brings sunshine, wildflowers, and the perfect excuse to indulge in something cold and delicious. Whether you’re coming off a day of hiking, tubing the Yampa River, or strolling downtown, there’s no better way to cool off than with a frozen treat. From locally churned ice cream to refreshing smoothies and unique frosty desserts, here are the best spots in Steamboat to satisfy your sweet tooth and beat the heat.
Lyon’s Corner Drug & Soda Fountain
Where? 840 Lincoln Ave
A Steamboat institution since 1956, Lyon’s Corner Drug & Soda Fountain is more than just a place to cool off, it’s a step back in time. Located right in the heart of downtown, this charming pharmacy and old-fashioned soda fountain is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its nostalgic vibe and classic treats.
The soda fountain counter serves up hand-dipped milkshakes, root beer floats, phosphates, malts, and sundaes using rich, creamy ice cream and vintage-style syrups. Choose from traditional flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, or get adventurous with seasonal specials. The staff wears crisp white uniforms, adding to the retro feel, and the checkerboard floor and swivel stools complete the Americana aesthetic.
Perfect for families, date nights, or anyone with a soft spot for simpler times, Lyon’s is the kind of place where you can relax, strike up a conversation, and watch your sundae being made right in front of you. It’s not just a place to beat the heat, it’s an essential Steamboat experience.
Johnny B Good’s Diner
Where? 738 Lincoln Ave
Step into Johnny B Good’s Diner and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight into the 1950s. With red vinyl booths, black-and-white checkered floors, jukebox tunes, and walls decked out in retro memorabilia, this iconic Steamboat eatery serves up old-school Americana with a side of fun. It’s a family-friendly spot that’s perfect for all ages, whether you’re in the mood for a full meal or just something sweet.
When it comes to frozen treats, Johnny B Good’s doesn’t hold back. Their milkshakes are thick, rich, and hand-spun to order – available in all the classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, plus indulgent specialties like Oreo, peanut butter banana, and the popular Funky Monkey (a dreamy combo of banana and chocolate). For those looking to go all-in, their banana splits, floats, and towering sundaes are generously portioned and just as photogenic as they are delicious.
Whether you’re cooling off after a day exploring downtown or looking for dessert after dinner, this diner offers a fun, nostalgic atmosphere that makes every treat feel like a celebration. The friendly staff and lively ambiance make it easy to linger a little longer, enjoying a spoonful of sundae or a sip of shake while soaking in the feel-good vibes of this Steamboat staple.
Emerald
Where? 700 Yampa Street Unit A-105 (Entrance on 7th St)
Tucked just off the Yampa River Core Trail, Emerald is a bright, welcoming spot dedicated to serving fresh, nutrient-packed smoothies and bowls in the heart of downtown Steamboat. Whether you’re coming off a morning walk, finishing a yoga class, or just looking for something cool and wholesome, this locally loved café delivers vibrant flavors and feel-good ingredients all year round.
The menu features a wide variety of smoothies made with real fruits, vegetables, and plant-based milks – no added sugars, syrups, or fillers. Tropical blends with mango and pineapple are customer favorites, but you’ll also find green powerhouses with spinach, kale, and spirulina, plus energy boosters like matcha and chia seeds. Their smoothie bowls are just as popular – thick, spoonable creations topped with granola, sliced fruit, coconut flakes, and drizzles of honey or nut butter.
With its convenient location near the river and friendly, health-focused vibe, Emerald has become a go-to destination for both locals and visitors craving something refreshing and nourishing. The bright interior and quick service make it easy to pop in and grab a smoothie to-go – or hang out for a bit and enjoy the cool mountain air on their patio.
Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory
Where? 845 Lincoln Ave
Walking into Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory feels like stepping into a sugar-coated dream. Located right in the heart of downtown Steamboat, this colorful shop is packed wall-to-wall with every kind of candy imaginable – from nostalgic childhood favorites to novelty sweets and international treats. It’s a wonderland for kids and adults alike, featuring cheerful décor, fun music, and bins of bulk candy that beg to be scooped.
But Fuzziwig’s isn’t just about gummies and gumballs – they also serve up soft serve ice cream in a variety of rotating flavors. Whether you prefer a simple vanilla cone or a swirl of chocolate and strawberry, it’s the perfect cool-down treat after a sunny stroll along Lincoln Avenue. You can also load up your froyo with toppings straight from the candy bins – think gummy bears, mini M&Ms, sour worms, or crushed cookies – for a customizable sweet creation. They also have caramel apples with fun toppings for everyone.
This is one of those spots that’s pure fun, whether you’re rewarding the kids after a day of outdoor adventure or indulging your own inner child. The friendly staff is always happy to offer samples or help you mix and match, and the location makes it an easy stop during a downtown shopping spree. For a playful and colorful twist on the classic ice cream stop, Fuzziwig’s is a can’t-miss treat in Steamboat.
Wild Plum
Where? 2525 Village Dr
Located in the base area near Steamboat Resort, Wild Plum is a gourmet market, deli, and café that offers far more than meets the eye, including some surprisingly delicious frozen treats. Whether you’re staying in the mountain village or just passing through after a day of hiking or biking, it’s a convenient and stylish spot to grab something refreshing.
Inside, you’ll find a small but satisfying selection of gelato and ice cream, often featuring locally made or small-batch options. Flavors rotate, but you can expect rich classics like chocolate and salted caramel alongside seasonal picks with a Colorado twist. Grab a cone or cup to enjoy on their shaded outdoor patio, or take a pint back to your condo for a sweet après-adventure indulgence.
Wild Plum is also a great one-stop-shop for picnic essentials, craft beverages, and grab-and-go snacks, making it ideal for those planning a day on the mountain. The upscale yet approachable vibe and friendly service make it feel more like a hidden gem than a resort convenience store. If you’re looking for a frozen treat off the beaten path, Wild Plum is definitely worth the detour.
Jax’s Micro Creamery by Beard & Braid
Where? 116 9th St
Tucked inside the stylish Beard & Braid marketplace, Jax’s Micro Creamery is one of Steamboat’s coolest new spots for artisan ice cream. Sharing a location with Milk & Honey and a curated selection of local makers and goods, this micro creamery brings bold flavors and small-batch quality to the heart of downtown. It’s not just ice cream – it’s a culinary experience in a cone.
Jax’s prides itself on using premium ingredients and creative mix-ins, resulting in ultra-smooth, flavorful scoops that rotate regularly. You might find indulgent offerings like Brown Butter Pecan, Lavender Honey, or Dark Chocolate Sea Salt, each made in small batches to ensure maximum freshness and taste. Vegan and dairy-free options are also available, making it inclusive for all kinds of treat-seekers.
The setting is just as unique as the ice cream itself. With cozy seating, local artwork, and a modern mountain vibe, Beard & Braid feels more like a boutique than an ice cream parlor – yet it’s the perfect place to linger with a cone in hand. Whether you’re ending a downtown shopping stroll or starting your evening out, Jax’s delivers a memorable, flavor-forward way to cool off in true Steamboat style.
Sundance Health Zone
Where? 425 Anglers Dr Suite D
Sundance Health Zone offers a refreshing alternative to traditional frozen treats with its focus on wholesome, nutrient-packed smoothies and frozen desserts designed to fuel your body after an active day. Conveniently located near the Yampa River Core Trail, this vibrant spot is popular with locals who want to cool off without sacrificing health or flavor.
Their menu features a variety of smoothie blends using fresh fruits, organic greens, and superfood add-ins like spirulina, chia seeds, and protein powders. They also have loaded teas, protein coffees, and other kinds of shakes.
Whether you’re recovering from a mountain bike ride, hiking nearby trails, or just looking for a guilt-free frozen treat, Sundance Health Zone delivers vibrant flavors with a health-conscious twist. The bright, airy interior and friendly staff make it easy to grab something to-go or relax inside to recharge.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
Where? 624 Lincoln Ave
For those who want to sweeten their summer day with more than just frozen treats, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in downtown Steamboat offers a delicious variety of chocolate-covered delights that perfectly complement ice cream and smoothies. While their specialty is handcrafted chocolates and fudge, they also serve rich, creamy chocolate-dipped frozen bananas and other frozen confections that are perfect for cooling off.
This family-friendly shop invites you to explore an array of decadent sweets, from caramel apples to truffles, but the frozen treats are especially popular on hot days. The combination of smooth chocolate and cold fruit makes for a refreshing yet indulgent snack, ideal after a day spent hiking or exploring the mountain village.
With its inviting storefront and mouthwatering aromas, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is a must-visit for anyone looking to add a little extra sweetness to their Steamboat summer experience. Whether you’re grabbing a frozen chocolate treat to-go or browsing their selection of candies, it’s a delightful stop for all ages.
Dairy Queen
Where? 1755 Central Park Dr
No list of frozen treats in Steamboat Springs would be complete without mentioning the classic Dairy Queen. Conveniently located near the Central Park shopping area, this beloved chain offers all the familiar favorites that have been cooling down families for decades. From Blizzard treats packed with mix-ins like Oreo, Reese’s, and Butterfinger to classic soft-serve cones and Dilly Bars, Dairy Queen is a reliable go-to for a quick, satisfying frozen dessert.
Perfect for families with kids or anyone craving a nostalgic, no-fuss ice cream fix, Dairy Queen delivers consistent quality and friendly service. It’s an especially handy stop if you’re on the way to or from a day on the slopes or a hike and want a fast, delicious treat to cool off. The menu also includes sundae classics, shakes, and seasonal specialties, so there’s always something new to try alongside the favorites.
Beyond the classic treats, Dairy Queen often features fun limited-time offerings and seasonal specials that keep regular visitors coming back to see what’s new. Whether you’re in the mood for a fruity Dilly Bar or a rich chocolate Blizzard, it’s a spot that combines convenience with dependable indulgence – perfect for satisfying sweet cravings anytime during your Steamboat adventure.
Chill Out, Steamboat Style
No matter how you choose to cool off, Steamboat Springs delivers when it comes to frozen refreshments that delight locals and visitors alike. From quirky downtown diners serving up retro milkshakes to vibrant smoothie stands tucked alongside the river, every stop on this list adds a little extra sweetness and a whole lot of local charm to your summer adventure.
Whether you’re savoring a hand-dipped cone at a nostalgic soda fountain, indulging in inventive small-batch ice cream flavors, or fueling up with a nutrient-packed smoothie after a day outdoors, Steamboat’s frozen treats are the perfect way to refresh and recharge. The mountain air, friendly faces, and welcoming vibes make each bite or sip feel like a celebration of the season and the stunning Yampa Valley surroundings.
So grab a spoon (or a straw), find your favorite sunny spot, and let the cool mountain breeze and tasty treats do the rest. Your summer in Steamboat just got a whole lot sweeter.