Our Top 5 Ice Cream Spots in Downtown JC

If you’ve spent any time at the Hamilton Park splash pad or the Newport waterfront, you know that ice cream isn't just a treat—it’s a tactical tool. Whether it’s a bribe for "one more mile" in the stroller or a celebratory "you didn't have a meltdown in Target" reward, Jersey City is packed with amazing creameries.

Here is my mom-approved list of the best spots to grab a scoop with your toddler in tow.

1. Torico Ice Cream

You cannot live in (or visit) Jersey City without a trip to Torico. It’s been here since 1968, and the tropical-inspired flavors are legendary.

The Vibe: Nostalgic and bustling. There is almost always a line, but it moves fast, and the staff is used to kids pointing wildly at the glass.

What to Order: Ube or Lychee (so refreshing!). For the little one: A small cup of Vanilla Bean with Rainbow Sprinkles or Banana.

Mom Hack: There’s a tiny parklet right outside with benches, but for more room to run, walk two blocks over to the City Hall plaza.

2. Ample Hills Creamery

Located right near the Urby building and the waterfront, Ample Hills feels like a whimsical playground in ice cream form.

The Vibe: Fun, colorful, and very spacious compared to other downtown shops. The views of the Manhattan skyline from the nearby pier are a huge bonus.

What to Order: Ooey Gooey Butter Cake (it’s famous for a reason) and Cotton Candy—theirs is made with all-natural colors and has mini-marshmallows hidden inside.

Mom Hack: Ask for a "Baby Scoop." It’s the perfect size for a 3-year-old’s appetite (and their ability to keep things relatively clean).

3. Milk & Cream Cereal Bar

If you have a kid who is obsessed with cereal, this place will make you a hero. They blend your favorite childhood cereals directly into soft serve.

The Vibe: Retro and high-energy. It’s very Instagrammable, so have your camera ready for the "first lick" photo.

What to Order: A swirl with Froot Loops and Cornflake Crunch and The "Cereal Milk" soft serve with Lucky Charms marshmallows on top.

Mom Hack: This spot is right on the Newark Ave Pedestrian Plaza. It’s great because there are no cars, so you can let the toddler walk (or wobble) while they eat without the "street safety" panic.

4. Downtown Yogurt

Sometimes you just need a place where the kids can "do it themselves." This self-serve froyo spot is a regular stop for our family.

The Vibe: Bright, clean, and very low-pressure.

What to Order: Parisian Tarte (plain tart) with fresh berries, Vanilla Custard or Cake Batter.

Mom Hack: The topping bar is both a blessing and a curse. To avoid a sugar-induced riot, I tell my toddler they can pick three colors. It turns it into a game and keeps the cup from weighing 10 pounds (and costing $20).

5. Stack Creamery

If a scoop isn't enough and you need a cookie (or two), head over to Stack on the edge of downtown/Heights.

The Vibe: Modern and sweet-smelling. They specialize in custom-built ice cream sandwiches.

What to Order: An ice cream sandwich with Coffee ice cream between two Double Chocolate Chip cookies.

Mom Hack: Their ice cream sandwiches are huge. For a toddler, I suggest getting a cup of ice cream with a single cookie on the side. It’s much easier for them to manage than a giant sandwich that will inevitably end up on their shirt.