Need an excuse to cool down during the summer? Look no further: National Ice Cream Day is Sunday, July 19! (In fact, the entire month of July is National Ice Cream Month.)

In 1984, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to “observe these events with ‘appropriate ceremonies and activities,'” according to the International Dairy Foods Association. So, obviously, we’re all obliged to at least one scoop… right?

But where to celebrate in St. Louis? Check out some of the best in local ice cream below!

Arch View Caf’ On the dock of the Gateway Arch Riverboats; 50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63102

I scream, you scream, we all scream for… enjoying ice cream alongside views of the Mississippi River and the Gateway Arch! The Arch View Caf‘ is indeed a one-of-a-kind place for a casual, lickety-split dessert, especially after a sightseeing cruise or Journey to the Top tram ride. Satisfy your sweet-tooth craving with the classics: ice cream sandwiches, cookies and cream, and vanilla nutty cones! Mmmmm!

One more thing: If you’re on the Arch grounds, look for the Jefferson National Parks Association’s ice cream stand!

Fountain on Locust 3037 Locust, St. Louis, MO 63103

Voted the best ice cream shop in Missouri by Foursquare and one of St. Louis Magazine’s Best Restaurants, The Fountain on Locust is a must-try for locals and visitors alike. With Ice Cream Martinis, Old Fashioned Ice Cream Specialties, and Classic Malts and Milkshakes, not to mention a retro vibe and hand painted art deco interior, the dining experience is one of the most unique in St. Louis. 

Serendipity 8130 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, MO 63119

“Life is uncertain… eat dessert first.” We can’t help but agree with Serendipity! And you will, too, once you try their delectable homemade ice cream, which has been a St. Louis favorite since the shop opened in Webster Groves in 2003. The selection of ice cream flavors changes regularly, keeping us coming back to try the best new varieties. A favorite: The Cookie Monster – a combination of cookie dough and cookies ‘n’ cream – colored BLUE! Nom, nom, nom!

Crown Candy Kitchen 1401 St. Louis Ave., St. Louis, Mo. 63106

It’s been around since 1913, but its treats are some of the freshest in St. Louis. Crown Candy Kitchen is a local landmark; and their homemade, rich and creamy ice cream is the perfect amount of “sweet” – possibly a result of their unique blending process in an antique copper candy kettle. The menu features “World’s Fair Sundaes,” malts and shakes, delicious homemade sandwiches and of course, homemade candy. They even have the oldest soda fountain in St. Louis!

Clementine’s Creamery 1637 South 18th Street, St. Louis, Mo. 63104

St. Louis’ first microcreamery recently opened in Lafayette Square, and it’s already earned a spot on the Riverfront Times’ list of St. Louis’ best ice cream parlors. All treats are made with 100% natural ingredients, and many incorporate local ingredients. There are “naughty” (boozy) flavors like “Chocolate Stout” and Banana Rum with Salted Butterscotch Caramel Swirl”; as well “nice” (non-boozy) flavors like “Gooey Butter Cake” and “Strawberry with Balsamic & White Pepper.”  

Bailey’s Range 920 Olive, St. Louis, Mo. 63101

With both classic (i.e., Bailey’s chocolate, salted caramel, vanilla) and innovative (i.e., banana Nutella, three-chili chocolate, mint pistachio) homemade ice cream flavors, Bailey’s Range has something for everyone! The restaurant is known for its grass-fed beef burgers and delectable shakes, but the ice cream is just as notable. Fun fact: Any of their ice cream flavors can be made into a shake. Can’t decide between cocktail and dessert? Don’t! Bailey’s offers boozy shakes as well.