Petersen's Ice Cream

For over a century, Petersen's Ice Cream has been an enduring beacon of sweetness in Oak Park, Illinois, and a cherished landmark for residents across the Chicagoland area. Established in 1919, Petersen's has remained committed to crafting "Old Fashioned" ice cream using a time-honored recipe that prioritizes quality ingredients, particularly a high butterfat content, which contributes to its renowned richness and creaminess. It's more than just an ice cream shop; it's a living piece of local history, where generations have created lasting memories over a scoop of their favorite flavor or a decadent sundae.

Petersen's Ice Cream is celebrated not only for its longevity but also for its consistently delicious products. The shop has earned numerous accolades, including multiple blue ribbons at the Illinois State Fair, a testament to its commitment to excellence. When you step into Petersen's, you're not just getting ice cream; you're experiencing a nostalgic vibe, a comforting reminder of simpler times. Whether it's the packed cookie dough in a classic scoop or the perfectly layered decadence of a turtle sundae, Petersen's aims to deliver a satisfying and memorable treat that honors its rich heritage while continuing to delight new and old fans alike in the Illinois region.

Petersen's Ice Cream is centrally located at 1100 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA. This prime address places it within the heart of Oak Park, a vibrant and historic suburb just west of Chicago. Chicago Avenue is a major thoroughfare, ensuring excellent visibility and straightforward navigation for both local residents and visitors from surrounding Illinois communities.

Accessibility to Petersen's is a significant advantage. For those traveling by car, parking is generally available in the vicinity, either on the street or in nearby public lots, making it a convenient stop for families and individuals. For public transportation users, the shop is easily reachable. It’s just over a half-mile walk from the Oak Park stop on the Green Line of Chicago's "L" train, providing a fantastic option for those commuting from Chicago or other areas served by the Green Line. Additionally, various Pace bus routes serve the area, further enhancing accessibility. Its prominent location and multiple transportation options make Petersen's Ice Cream a highly accessible and practical choice for anyone in the Illinois region looking to indulge in a classic ice cream experience in a charming, historic setting.

Petersen's Ice Cream is renowned for its selection of "Super Premium Ice Cream" and a variety of classic, handcrafted treats, all made with their award-winning recipes. Their menu focuses on quality and rich flavors.

• Super Premium Ice Cream Scoops: Petersen's offers a wide array of flavors made with 18% butterfat, resulting in an exceptionally creamy and dense texture. Popular flavors include:
  • Black Walnut
  • Cappuccino (a combination of coffee and chocolate)
  • Caramel Ripple
  • Chocolate (a blue ribbon winner at the Illinois State Fair)
  • Cookie Dough (packed with chocolate chips and cookie dough chunks)
  • Green Mint Chocolate Chip
  • Mackinac Island Fudge
  • New York Vanilla (French vanilla with a hint of egg)
  • New York Cherry
  • Cookies 'N Cream
  • Pistachio
  • Strawberry
  • Turtle (chocolate ice cream with swirls of rich caramel and butter-roasted pecans)
  • Vanilla (a multi-award winner at the State Fair)
• Sundaes: Classic and indulgent sundaes are a signature offering, artfully prepared with their premium ice cream and various toppings. Notable sundaes include:
  • Turtle Sundae:
  • The Turtle Pie:
  • Hot Fudge Sundaes: Two mounds of luscious vanilla ice cream accompanied by a pitcher of viscous hot fudge.
• Milkshakes and Malts:
• Floats:
• Take-Home Pints and Quarts:
• Shop Specialties:

The menu is designed to cater to both classic preferences and those seeking a unique, decadent treat, all while upholding a century-long tradition of quality.

Petersen's Ice Cream in Oak Park boasts several compelling features and highlights that solidify its status as a beloved institution and a top destination for ice cream lovers in Illinois.

• Centennial Legacy and History:
• Award-Winning, Super Premium Ice Cream:
• Nostalgic Vibe and Old-Fashioned Charm:
• Signature Turtle Sundae and Turtle Pie:
• Consistency and Reliability:
• Prime Location with Public Transit Access:
• Focus on Quality Ingredients:

These features collectively make Petersen's Ice Cream a cherished local gem and a must-visit for anyone seeking a timeless and delicious ice cream experience in Illinois.

For those in Illinois looking to experience the timeless charm and delicious treats of Petersen's Ice Cream in Oak Park, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 1100 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA

Phone: (708) 386-6131

It is always a good idea to check their current operating hours, especially as they may vary by season (they traditionally close for winter and reopen in spring, often around March to May). Calling the provided phone number is the best way to confirm their hours, inquire about specific flavors, or get details on their various offerings before your visit, ensuring a smooth and informed experience.

Petersen's Ice Cream in Oak Park is truly an ideal destination for locals in Illinois for a variety of compelling reasons. Foremost, it represents a cherished piece of local history, having served award-winning ice cream for over a century. For many, a visit isn't just about enjoying a cold treat; it's a nostalgic journey, a chance to reconnect with childhood memories, or to start new traditions with family and friends in a place that feels authentically classic.

The commitment to "super premium" quality, with high butterfat content and rich, consistent flavors (like their famously decadent Turtle Sundae), sets Petersen's apart from many other ice cream shops. You're not just getting a scoop; you're getting a meticulously crafted dessert that has won numerous accolades. The nostalgic vibe and old-fashioned charm of the shop add to the overall experience, making it a comfortable and inviting place to relax and savor your treat. Its convenient location on Chicago Avenue, coupled with easy accessibility via both car and public transport, ensures that it’s a practical and straightforward option for residents across Oak Park and surrounding Chicagoland suburbs. For Illinoisans seeking a blend of rich history, exceptional taste, and a genuinely charming atmosphere, Petersen's Ice Cream is undoubtedly a local treasure worth visiting time and time again.

Petersen's Ice Cream

1100 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA