Beat the Heat: The Best Places for a Cold Treat Across the Golden Strip

With summer-like heatwaves fast approaching the Upstate, finding the perfect way to cool down has become a top priority for local families. Fortunately, the Golden Strip is packed with incredible, homegrown destinations serving up everything from nostalgic hand-dipped scoops to decadent frozen custards.

Whether you are finishing up a sunny stroll downtown or looking to reward the kids after a long week, here is the ultimate news roundup of the best spots for a cold treat in Mauldin, Simpsonville, and Fountain Inn.

Mauldin: Pop’s Cabin Creamery & Dillard’s Ice Cream

• The Vibe: A choice between historic cabin porch-sitting or a neighborhood favorite loaded with specialty toppings.

• Locations: 101 E. Butler Road (Pop’s Cabin) & 1009 Mauldin Road (Dillard’s).

Nestled right next to downtown Mauldin in the historic, 200-year-old Gosnell Cabin, Pop’s Cabin Creamery has fast become a cornerstone of the community’s seasonal culture. Opened by local restaurateur Don Deas, the parlor fulfills a personal dream inspired by his wife’s grandfather, James “Pop” Dorsey, who ran a beloved community ice cream shack in Marion, South Carolina, decades ago. Patrons order through the cabin’s front windows and can enjoy their treats at outdoor tables complete with colorful umbrellas and string lights.

Just a short drive down the road, Dillard’s Ice Cream brings the legendary reputation of its original Greer flagship straight to the Mauldin area. Known for serving up premium, high-quality scoops at a great family price, Dillard’s has built a massive neighborhood following. It is the perfect, welcoming spot to gather after local youth sports games at nearby Conestee Park or a day out with the family. Unlike its cash-only sister location, the Mauldin spot fully accepts cards, making a spontaneous weeknight run entirely seamless.

Must-Try: A classic hand-dipped milkshake at Pop’s Cabin, or a generous scoop of the fan-favorite South Carolina Pothole (rich chocolate ice cream loaded with chocolate chunks and thick fudge ribbons) in a crispy waffle cone at Dillard’s.

Simpsonville: The Ice Cream Station & Andy’s

• The Vibe: A choice between a legendary Main Street train depot walk-up or an ultra-creamy, fast-paced drive-thru.

• Locations: 125 S. Main Street (Ice Cream Station) & 403 Harrison Bridge Road (Andy’s).

Simpsonville boasts a true heavy hitter in The Ice Cream Station. Operating out of a vibrant, depot-style structure right on South Main Street, this landmark walk-up has been anchoring summer nights for area residents for years. Known for its extensive menu of soft-serve cones, dipped flavors, and massive sundaes, it is a staple stop after an evening at Heritage Park.

For those on the other side of town craving a premium, velvety texture, Andy’s Frozen Custard on Harrison Bridge Road delivers high-energy drive-thru service with a classic retro flair.

• • Must-Try: The “Ozark Turtle Sundae” or a custom “Jackhammer” concrete at Andy’s, featuring rich frozen custard blended with your favorite toppings and a center pumped full of hot fudge or caramel.

Fountain Inn: The Chill Factory

• The Vibe: A family-friendly, classic Main Street storefront perfect for a post-dinner stroll.

• Location: 109 N. Main Street.

In the heart of downtown Fountain Inn, The Chill Factory is the undisputed destination for residents looking to satisfy a sweet tooth. This locally owned boutique ice cream parlor blends seamlessly into the city’s historic charm, offering a welcoming interior and an unbeatable location for those wanting to grab a cup and window-shop down Main Street.

The shop is highly regarded for its premium hand-dipped flavors, massive banana splits, and specialty baked goods.

• Must-Try: The “Brownie Sundae”—a rich, warm chocolate chip brownie topped with two generous scoops of ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream, and a cherry.

What’s your go-to order? With temperatures rising across South Carolina, these local small businesses are geared up to keep the Golden Strip cool all season long. Grab a spoon, support local, and stay chilled!