Bruster's Real Ice Cream
About
Bruster's Real Ice Cream in Franklin Park is a family favorite where kids can watch their ice cream being made fresh daily right on-site. With outdoor seating and a welcoming atmosphere, it's the perfect spot for a quick treat after school, weekend family outings, or celebrating those special moments with your little ones.
Highlights
- ✓Fresh ice cream made on-site daily in rotating flavors
- ✓Generous portion sizes even for kids' orders
- ✓Outdoor picnic-style seating perfect for letting kids enjoy their treats
- ✓Friendly staff who are patient with indecisive young customers
- ✓Seasonal flavors that keep the menu exciting year-round
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on Tuesday evenings when they sometimes feature special flavor tastings for kids
- 2.Bring wet wipes or hand sanitizer,ice cream cones and little hands can get messy quickly, especially at the outdoor tables
- 3.Ask about the flavor of the day before ordering; kids love being 'taste testers' and trying small sample spoons
- 4.Park around back for easier access with strollers and to avoid the busier front lot
- 5.Order kid-sized portions first,they're generous and you can always go back for more
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons between 2-5 PM offer shorter lines and a relaxed atmosphere. Summer evenings get busy but have a fun, festive vibe. Avoid weekend evenings during baseball season when local teams celebrate wins here.
What to Know
Budget-friendly with most kids' treats under $5. Outdoor seating only, so dress for the weather. Parking lot can fill up quickly on warm evenings, but turnover is fast.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, though hours may be reduced in winter months. Summer features special flavors like fresh peach and strawberry. Fall brings pumpkin and apple crisp options that kids love. Call ahead during severe winter weather to confirm hours.
More Activities Near Franklin Park
Franklin Park
Franklin Park offers families a classic neighborhood park experience with well-kept facilities perfect for a day of outdoor fun. The modern playground equipment keeps kids entertained while parents appreciate the clean, safe environment and ample space for running around. With sports fields and covered pavilions, it's an ideal spot for everything from casual playdates to birthday parties and family reunions.
Nicola's Ristorante Italiano
Nicola's Ristorante Italiano is a beloved family-owned gem in Franklin Park that genuinely welcomes children with open arms. This warm, neighborhood Italian spot offers classic comfort food like pizza, pasta, and meatballs that even picky eaters will enjoy, all served by friendly staff who understand the realities of dining out with kids.
Franklin Park & Recreation
Franklin Park & Recreation is a community hub that keeps kids active year-round with everything from organized sports leagues to engaging summer camps. With highly-rated programs and a welcoming atmosphere, this recreation center offers parents a reliable go-to for structured activities that help children build skills, make friends, and burn energy in a supervised environment.
North Park Boathouse
North Park Boathouse is a charming lakeside destination where families can rent paddle boats, kayaks, and rowboats while enjoying stunning views of North Park Lake. The historic boathouse provides a perfect blend of gentle outdoor adventure and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities for kids to spot ducks, geese, and other wildlife along the shoreline.