There’s a stretch of the Suncoast that doubles as a dessert trail, and it starts on Anna Maria Island. Two Scoops has been serving since 2007 with 32 flavors, including Sea Salt Caramel and Gator Tracks. Wander down Pine Avenue and you’ll find Dips, a Pine Avenue fixture since 1993 where the scoops come with a side of candy and sports memorabilia. Head over the bridge into Cortez and Tyler’s Homemade Ice Cream has been churning on-site since 1984, which says something about staying power in a climate that melts cones fast.
Keep going into Bradenton and you hit Shake Pit, open since 1959 and still the spot for thick shakes and crinkle-cut fries. Beyond the classics, the area has plenty of newer options too: MilkShake Factory, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, plus gelato, frozen custard, sorbet, frozen yogurt, acai bowls and dairy-free selections for anyone with dietary restrictions. Whether you want a cone after dinner or a full afternoon outing, there’s a stop for it.
One tip before you go: hours can change seasonally, particularly at the smaller island shops, so a quick call ahead saves a wasted trip. The suggested route runs Anna Maria Island to Cortez to Bradenton, which makes an easy weekend plan for locals and snowbirds alike. So which shop is your first stop, and what flavor are you ordering?
