Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia is a city with a serious sweet tooth. While we are famous for cheesesteaks and pretzels, the city's ice cream game is equally legendary. From historic soda fountains that date back over a century to trendy spots serving vegan masterpieces, there is no shortage of ways to get a brain freeze in the City of Brotherly Love.
Here are the top 10 spots to find the best milkshakes in Philadelphia right now.
1. The Franklin Fountain
Location: Old City Best For: The ultimate historic experience
Stepping into The Franklin Fountain is like stepping back in time. Located in historic Old City, this beloved venue features staff dressed in turn-of-the-century bow ties and vests. They don't just scoop ice cream; they craft experiences using homemade ice cream and authentic soda syrups. Their milkshakes are thick, classic, and served in an atmosphere that screams Americana.
- Address: 116 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
2. Bassetts Ice Cream
Location: Reading Terminal Market Best For: Rich, high-butterfat classics
You can't talk about Philly ice cream without talking about Bassetts. As America's oldest ice cream company (established in 1861), they are the anchor of the Reading Terminal Market. Their shakes are made with their famous 16.5% butterfat ice cream, making them arguably the creamist, richest shakes in the city. With 40 flavors available, the combinations are endless.
- Address: 45 North 12th Street (Reading Terminal Market), Philadelphia, PA 19107
3. Nifty Fifty's
Location: South Philly Best For: Variety lovers
Nifty Fifty's is a neon-lit, kitschy diner paradise that takes the concept of a milkshake very seriously. They are famous for having the "World's Largest Soda Fountain Variety," offering dozens upon dozens of flavors ranging from classic Chocolate to exotic options like Toasted Marshmallow and Cotton Candy. It's the perfect spot for a burger, fries, and a shake.
- Address: 2700 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA 19148
4. Goldie
Location: Center City / Rittenhouse Best For: Vegan perfection
You don't need dairy to make a world-class shake. Goldie, a vegan falafel shop from the team behind Zahav, has gained a cult following for their Tehina (Tahini) Shakes. Made with sesame paste instead of milk, these shakes are impossibly creamy, nutty, and distinct. The Turkish Coffee and Banana flavors are absolute must-tries.
- Address: 1526 Sansom St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
5. Joe's Steaks + Soda Shop
Location: Northeast Philly / Tacony Best For: Retro vibes and egg creams
Joe's Steaks is a Northeast Philadelphia institution. While they are famous for their cheesesteaks, the "Soda Shop" part of their name is equally important. They serve quintessential old-fashioned milkshakes, malts, and egg creams that pair perfectly with a greasy steak. It's a no-frills, high-flavor trip down memory lane.
- Address: 6030 Torresdale Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19135
6. Craftsman Row Saloon
Location: Center City / Jewelers' Row Best For: Over-the-top "Extreme" shakes
If you are looking for a milkshake that will break the internet, head to Craftsman Row Saloon. This laid-back hangout is famous for its "Extreme Shakes"—towering creations often garnished with whole slices of cake, cookies, and candy. They are particularly renowned for their seasonal holiday themes, making them a viral sensation year-round.
- Address: 112 S 8th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
7. Oh, Brother Philly
Location: Old City Best For: Late-night indulgence
Located right in the heart of Old City, Oh, Brother Philly is a casual, counter-serve spot that nails the comfort food classics. Their milkshakes are thick, sweet, and the perfect chaser to their creative burgers and cheesesteaks. It's a convenient and delicious stop for tourists visiting Independence Hall.
- Address: 206 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
8. Scoop DeVille Ice Cream
Location: Midtown Village Best For: Custom creations
At Scoop DeVille, you are the architect of your own dessert. This parlor specializes in "blends," where you choose your ice cream base and mix-ins, and a machine swirls them together into soft-serve consistency (which can also be made into a shake). With a buffet of toppings and endless combinations, it's a hit for kids and adults alike.
- Address: 1109 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
9. Sweet Charlie's
Location: Rittenhouse Square Area Best For: Rolled ice cream
Sweet Charlie's brought the Thai-style rolled ice cream trend to Philadelphia. Here, the milk base is poured onto a freezing cold metal plate and scraped into rolls right before your eyes. While famous for the rolls, these fresh ingredients can be blended into a fresh, customized milkshake that tastes as good as it looks.
- Address: 1921 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
10. Shake Shack
Location: University City Best For: Frozen custard consistency
While it is a national chain, Shake Shack has earned its spot on the list for reliability and texture. They use dense, rich frozen custard rather than traditional ice cream, resulting in a shake that is smoother and silkier than the competition. The "Black & White" shake remains a gold standard for fast-food desserts.
- Address: 3200 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Bill Zimmerman