Van Leeuwen Ice Cream - The Point
About
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream at The Point offers an entertaining ice cream experience where kids can watch their frozen treats being made with liquid nitrogen, creating a fun science-show atmosphere. This trendy El Segundo spot serves up creative flavors including vegan options, making it perfect for families with various dietary needs who want a sweet treat after exploring the nearby beach or shops.
Highlights
- ✓Watching ice cream made with billowing liquid nitrogen clouds
- ✓Unique flavor options including kid favorites with creative twists
- ✓Vegan ice cream options that taste just as indulgent as regular
- ✓Outdoor seating area at The Point for enjoying treats
- ✓Instagram-worthy smoke effects that make kids feel like scientists
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during off-peak hours (2-4pm weekdays) to ensure kids get a front-row view of the liquid nitrogen ice cream-making process
- 2.Ask staff if kids can watch their specific order being made - they're usually happy to explain the process and create extra 'smoke' for entertainment
- 3.Try their vegan options even if you're not vegan - they're surprisingly creamy and kids often can't tell the difference
- 4.Park in The Point's main lot and make it a combo trip with playground time at the nearby Recreation Park
- 5.Bring a light jacket as the shop can get chilly from all the liquid nitrogen action
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (2-4pm) before the after-school and dinner rush provide shorter lines and more opportunities for kids to interact with staff. Late mornings on weekends work well for a post-beach treat without the evening crowds.
What to Know
Prices are budget-friendly at one dollar sign level, with kids' portions available. The Point shopping center offers ample free parking and outdoor seating, plus it's stroller-accessible with no stairs.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, though Southern California's mild climate makes it popular even in winter. Summer evenings and weekends can have 15-20 minute waits. No major seasonal closures, but hours may vary on holidays.
Nearby Eats
The Point shopping center offers several family-friendly options including The Beach Pit BBQ for casual dining, or head a few blocks to Main Street El Segundo for additional restaurants and the weekly farmers market on Thursdays.
More Activities Near El Segundo
Main Street
Main Street in El Segundo offers families a charming, walkable downtown experience with a classic small-town vibe just minutes from LAX. This pedestrian-friendly strip is perfect for strolling with kids, featuring family-friendly restaurants, old-fashioned ice cream parlors, unique boutique shops, and regular community events that bring the whole neighborhood together.
El Segundo Parks & Recreation
El Segundo Parks & Recreation offers families a versatile neighborhood park perfect for active play and outdoor fun. With well-maintained playground equipment, sports courts, and expansive grassy areas, it's an ideal spot for everything from pickup basketball games to picnic lunches while the kids burn off energy.
The Lakes at El Segundo
The Lakes at El Segundo is El Segundo's premier family destination, offering something for kids of all ages across its expansive grounds. With multiple playgrounds, sports fields, open green spaces for running around, and picnic areas perfect for birthday parties or casual family gatherings, this highly-rated park provides hours of outdoor fun just minutes from the beach.
Apollo Park
Apollo Park is a welcoming neighborhood gem in Downey that's perfectly sized for families with young children seeking a low-key outdoor outing. This cozy park combines essential play features,modern playground equipment, a full basketball court, and open grassy spaces,making it ideal for toddlers through elementary-aged kids who need to burn energy without the overwhelming crowds of larger regional parks.