So when the temperatures start climbing, finding a way to cool off while still having a seriously fun day in the city is a win. Enter the Museum of Ice Cream in SoHo.
And honestly, the fun starts the second you walk through the door. Cold air conditioning. Ahhh. After stepping in from a steamy NYC sidewalk, that first blast of cool air feels like an attraction all on its own.
Forget the traditional museum experience. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported into a colorful, candy-coated world where pretty much everything is designed to make you smile, play, and, of course, eat ice cream.
The recently reimagined 3-story experience is packed with interactive spaces, unexpected surprises, and plenty of opportunities to jump right in. You’re not just walking through exhibits -- you’re part of them.
One minute you’re exploring the Hall of Freezers, opening doors that lead to secret spaces; the next, you’re getting creative in the Sundae House or wandering through the larger-than-life Banana Split Jungle. There’s a carnival-inspired playground too, along with plenty of colorful corners that practically beg to be photographed.
Then there are the Museum of Ice Cream classics that have become famous for a reason. The Sprinkle Pool is exactly what it sounds like, and every bit as playful as you’d hope. There’s also the indoor slide, which gives you an unforgettable way to move through the experience.
And, of course, there’s the ice cream.
Tastings are part of the experience throughout the museum, but at the end, more unlimited scoops of ice cream are waiting for you! There are different flavors to try, but the gluten-free coconut was my favorite. Let's just say it was very hard to stop at one.
Three small bowls later... (no one needs to know.)
What makes the Museum of Ice Cream so much fun is that there really isn’t a wrong way to experience it. You can explore, play, take photos, taste your way through the exhibits, or simply embrace the fact that you’re spending a few hours in a giant, whimsical ice cream dream.
So, if a sweltering NYC summer day has you looking for an escape, skip the heat for a little while and head to SoHo. The Museum of Ice Cream may just be the sweetest way to cool down.
(Photos courtesy The Brand Guild/The Museum of Ice Cream)
