The Scoop on Brenham: Why We’re the Ice Cream Capital of Texas

If you’ve ever enjoyed a scoop of Blue Bell and felt instantly happy, then you’ve already tasted a little bit of Brenham magic. Nestled in the heart of Washington County, Brenham isn’t just a Texas town—it’s the Ice Cream Capital of Texas. And we wear that title proudly, with sprinkles on top!

Home of Blue Bell Creameries

5 freezer displays filled with various Blue Bell ice cream flavors. On top are stacks of Blue Bell cartons spelling out "Blue Bell."
Blue Bell Creameries, Brenham

Blue Bell Creameries, one of the most iconic ice cream brands in the country, got its start right here in Brenham in 1907. What began as a local creamery delivering butter and milk has turned into a household name, known for its rich flavors and Texas roots.

Today, Blue Bell still makes its ice cream in Brenham, and people from all over come to visit the creamery. The Blue Bell Visitor Center and Ice Cream Parlor is open to the public and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the history of the company—and of course, a scoop of your favorite flavor for just $1.

A Town That Loves Ice Cream

Ant Street Inn, Downtown Brenham

Here in Brenham, ice cream isn’t just a dessert—it’s part of our culture. On sunny days, you’ll see families, couples, and visitors strolling through town with cones in hand. Locals grow up on Blue Bell, and many even have a family member who has worked at the creamery at some point. There’s a real sense of pride in having Blue Bell as part of our story. It’s not just a treat—it’s a tradition.

A Flavor-Filled Experience

Downtown Brenham

Beyond the Little Creamery, Blue Bell touches every corner of our community. You’ll find its story on murals downtown, its flavors on restaurant dessert menus, and its legacy in the hearts of locals who grew up with a freezer full of Homemade Vanilla.

Want to dive deeper? Head over to the Blue Bell Visitor Center and Museum, where you can walk through the history, peek into production, and grab some fun merch to remember your trip.

Come for the Ice Cream, Stay for the Charm

Downtown Brenham

Of course, we’re more than just a pint of ice cream. Brenham is bursting with historic charm, boutique shopping, cozy coffee spots, and stunning wildflowers. But being the Ice Cream Capital of Texas? That’s the cherry on top!

So grab your friends, bring your sweet tooth, and head to Brenham—where every day is a little cooler and a whole lot sweeter!

Looking for the best spots to grab a scoop in Washington County? Check out our ice cream blog for seven sweet stops: 7 Places in Brenham to Get a Scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream!

7 Places in Brenham to Get a Scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream

Midsummer in this crazy Texas heat means one thing–it’s time for Blue Bell Ice Cream! And what better place to get a scoop of the best ice cream in the country than right in the hometown of the little creamery?

Here are SEVEN places in Brenham/Washington County to get a scoop of refreshing Blue Bell Ice Cream!

1. Blue Bell Ice Cream Parlor
Blue Bell Creameries, Brenham

Is it really a trip to Brenham if you don’t visit the creamery? A visit to the Blue Bell Ice Cream Parlor will take you back in time to your first scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream! Enjoy free samples, and scoops are only one dollar! The Blue Bell Country Store adjoins the Ice Cream Parlor, so you can shop for souvenirs while you’re there. Be sure to grab a free paper Blue Bell hat to complete the experience.

Blue Bell Creameries, Brenham
2. Must Be Heaven
Must Be Heaven, Downtown Brenham

Located in the heart of Downtown Brenham, Must Be Heaven is home to an old-fashioned soda parlor. Get a scoop of your favorite Blue Bell flavor, or indulge in a sundae with a cherry on top! Must Be Heaven is also known as a favorite stop for sandwiches, quiche, and homemade pie. Dine inside or sit on the patio, and don’t forget to snap a picture in front of one of their murals before you leave!

Must Be Heaven, Downtown Brenham
3. SCOOPS
Scoops, Brenham

Scoops may look like a regular convenience store, but the locals know that this inconspicuous place is the home of the biggest selection of Blue Bell flavors in Brenham! With 32 flavors to choose from, go for a double or triple-scoop!

4. R Place
R Place, Washington

You won’t find as many flavor options at R Place in Washington, but you will find BBQ and loads of character to go with your scoop of Blue Bell! Located right next to Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, this is a must-stop when you visit where Texas became Texas. R Place is only open on weekends, so make it part of your weekend getaway.

5. Yumm! Sweets & Eats
Yumm! Sweets & Eats, Downtown Brenham

Another Downtown Brenham favorite, Yumm! Sweets & Eats offers Blue Bell along with a plethora of other sweets to fuel your Downtown stroll. Don’t miss their homemade pizzas on the restaurant side!

6. Kippers Kountry Store
Kippers Kountry Store, Downtown Chappell Hill

Kippers Kountry Store in the heart of historic Chappell Hill is the perfect place to get a scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream! Take it with you as you stroll and shop in one of Texas’ prettiest little towns.

7. Mescalito Coffee
Mescalito Coffee, Downtown Brenham

Locating on the square in Downtown Brenham, Mescalito Coffee is a favorite to refuel and refresh. Get a scoop of your favorite flavor, or enjoy a scoop featured in one of Mescalito’s delicious specialty drinks. Indoor seating is available, as well as a front porch and a balcony overlooking several of the Downtown Brenham Murals. Bonus: stay and shop at sister company Ballad of the Bird Dog.