What do you need on a hot summer day? Ice cream. It’s sweet and chilling, and let’s face it: A family trip to an ice cream parlor can make for a tasty and affordable night on the town.
Here are a few classic Denver ice cream stops.
Bonnie Brae Ice Cream, 799 University Blvd., 303-777-0808
This old-time parlor is located in the heart of what sometimes seems to be the city’s family-friendliest neighborhood. The place can get crowded on weekend nights, but the waiting provides plenty of time to choose among all those flavors.
Liks Ice Cream 2039 E. 13th Ave., 303-321-2370,
Liks is the perfect topper for a family stroll through Cheesman Park on a warm eve. It’s small and sweet enough to forgive the line that snakes out the door at the height of summer. There’s a good supply of outdoor seating. Bring your dog.
Gelazzi Gelato Italiano Cafe 1411 Larimer St., 303-534-5056,
This ice cream parlor/cocktail lounge on Larimer Square makes its cool and creamy offerings fresh every day. It also changes up the flavors often enough to make each return trip an adventure. The swell selection of ice cream-based cocktails makes it an attractive option for bigger kids, as well.
Delite
Longtime neighborhood fixture Deluxe has turned up the volume in its new watering hole/eatery next door, Delite. Come early to score a seat at the bar, then nurse a cocktail while ordering a succession of small plates created in the Deluxe kitchen. 32 S. Broadway, 303-722-1550. Tucker Shaw
