McConnells Fine Ice Creams

McConnells Fine Ice Creams is a beloved Santa Barbara institution serving up artisanal ice cream with inventive flavors that excite both kids and adults. With outdoor seating on State Street, it's the perfect spot to treat the family after a day of exploring downtown, offering generous portions of creamy, locally-made ice cream that consistently earns rave reviews from visitors and locals alike.

• ✓Award-winning artisanal ice cream made locally with premium ingredients
• ✓Creative seasonal flavors that change regularly alongside beloved classics
• ✓Friendly staff who are patient with indecisive kids and generous with samples
• ✓Prime State Street location perfect for people-watching
• ✓Dairy-free and vegan options available for kids with dietary restrictions

1. 1.Lines can get long on summer evenings and weekends,visit mid-afternoon on weekdays for shorter waits and better outdoor seating availability
2. 2.Ask for sample spoons before committing! The staff is extremely friendly about letting kids taste unique flavors before deciding
3. 3.Bring cash if possible as it speeds up the transaction, though they do accept cards
4. 4.The outdoor seating fills up quickly,have one parent grab a table while the other orders with the kids
5. 5.Portion sizes are generous, so consider sharing with younger children or ordering the smaller size to avoid ice cream meltdowns

Weekday afternoons between 2-4pm offer the best balance of avoiding lunch and dinner crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather. Winter months mean shorter lines but chillier outdoor seating, so spring and fall offer the sweet spot of manageable crowds and comfortable temperatures.

Expect to spend around $6-8 per person for a scoop or two. Street parking on State Street can be challenging; consider using nearby public parking lots. The shop has outdoor seating only, so dress appropriately for weather.

Open year-round with seasonal flavors rotating throughout the year. Summer brings peak crowds and special fruit-forward flavors, while fall features pumpkin and spice options. Holiday flavors appear in winter, making it a festive treat destination.

La Super-Rica Taqueria (a few blocks away) offers authentic, kid-friendly Mexican food, or head to Sambo's Restaurant on Cabrillo Boulevard for classic American breakfast and lunch with ocean views.