Leopold's Ice Cream

Leopold's Ice Cream is as essential to a Savannah visit as the squares and Spanish moss. Founded in 1919 by three brothers from Greece, this Broughton Street institution has been serving its original-recipe ice cream for over a century, and it remains one of the most beloved family stops in the city.

The shop's interior is a charming throwback to mid-century soda fountains, with vintage tile work, a long marble counter, and walls lined with movie posters from owner Stratton Leopold's Hollywood career. The atmosphere is cheerful and bustling, with staff who clearly love their work — they'll happily explain flavors, offer samples, and help indecisive kids narrow down their choices.

The ice cream is made from scratch using the original Leopold family recipes, and the difference is immediately noticeable. The texture is dense and creamy, the flavors are bold without being artificial, and the quality stands up to any artisan ice cream shop in the country. Signature flavors include Tutti Frutti (with house-candied fruit), Chocolate Chewies, Rum Bisque, and seasonal specials that rotate throughout the year.

The line at Leopold's is legendary — on peak evenings and weekends, it can stretch down Broughton Street. But it moves steadily, and most families find that the wait builds anticipation rather than frustration. Kids watch through the windows, debate flavor strategies with their siblings, and practically vibrate with excitement by the time they reach the counter.

Many families consider the wait part of the experience.

After getting your scoops, the best move is to walk to one of Savannah's nearby squares to enjoy them. Chippewa Square (3 minutes south) and Wright Square (2 minutes west) both offer shaded benches under live oaks where families can savor their ice cream in quintessential Savannah style.