Whitey's Ice Cream

In the heart of East Moline, Illinois, Whitey's Ice Cream stands as a pillar of the community and a testament to enduring quality. The location at 1335 Avenue of the Cities is more than just a place to get dessert; it's a part of the local fabric, a destination that for many residents is a "rite of passage." Whitey's has a storied history in the Quad Cities, starting with its founding in Moline in 1933 by Chester “Whitey” Lindgren. The business was later purchased in 1953 by Bob and Norma Tunberg, whose family continues to run the company today. This deep-rooted, family-owned tradition is a significant part of the shop's identity and a source of immense pride for the community. The East Moline store, which opened in 1982, was one of the brand's early expansions, demonstrating its commitment to serving the entire Quad Cities region. What sets Whitey’s apart, and what has kept generations of customers coming back, is the incredibly smooth and rich texture of its ice cream, which a customer aptly describes as "really good creamy Ice Cream."

The reputation of Whitey's extends far beyond its local roots. As one enthusiastic visitor noted after a stop on their way west, they placed it in their "top 10 best ice cream shops in the USA." This sentiment is not uncommon, as the brand has received national recognition, having been named "Best in the Midwest" by Midwest Living Magazine and one of the "Best Ice Cream Shops in the World" by Condé Nast Traveler. This is not just a local chain; it's a world-class ice cream destination. This acclaim is a direct result of the company's long-standing principles: a high-quality product, a clean and welcoming environment, fair prices, and a friendly, knowledgeable staff. These values, instilled by Bob and Norma Tunberg, are carried on today by their sons, Jeff and Jon, who serve as co-owners. The consistency of this quality over decades is what makes Whitey’s a trusted name in the Quad Cities, a place where locals can be proud to bring friends and family from out of town.

Beyond the classic scoops, Whitey's is also known for its innovative spirit. The company is credited with pioneering several industry staples, including the use of high-powered malt machines to create extra-thick shakes and malts, and the invention of candy bar shakes and chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream. This blend of classic charm and forward-thinking creativity is what makes a visit to Whitey's so exciting. A customer review highlighted the fantastic variety, recommending not only the "can't-miss" White Chocolate Raspberry scoop but also a variety of inventive shakes like the Lemon Bar, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, or Turtle shakes. This wide-ranging and creative menu, as one reviewer put it, shows that they "truly do it all" and "know what they're doing," creating an experience that is both familiar and full of delightful surprises.

The Whitey's Ice Cream location in East Moline is situated at 1335 Avenue of the Cities, East Moline, IL 61244, USA. This is a very prominent and easily accessible location for anyone in the East Moline area and the surrounding Quad Cities. Avenue of the Cities is a major thoroughfare, making it simple for customers to find the shop whether they are running errands, heading home from work, or specifically making a trip for a treat.

The accessibility of this particular store is a key advantage. It is a known landmark in the area, which means first-time visitors and longtime regulars can find it with ease. The storefront is welcoming and visible, and there is ample parking available, which is especially important during the busy summer months when the demand for ice cream is at its peak. This convenience makes Whitey's an ideal spot for a quick stop or a longer, more leisurely visit with friends and family. Its location near other local businesses also makes it a great part of a day out in East Moline, whether it's after a meal or a community event.

Whitey's Ice Cream provides a comprehensive menu of frozen treats that goes far beyond simple scoops. The menu is crafted to cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

• Ice Cream Scoops: The foundation of the menu, with a vast and rotating selection of over 30 flavors. These include timeless classics and unique, inventive options like the fan-favorite White Chocolate Raspberry and the John Deere. The smooth, rich texture is a key highlight of their scoops.
• Shakes and Malts: Whitey's is legendary for its extra-thick shakes and malts, made with high-powered machines. They offer a wide variety of flavors, including both classic and special creations like the Turtle Shake and Pineapple Upside Down Cake Shake, as praised by customers.
• Sundaes and Splits: The menu includes a variety of sundaes, such as Turtle, Brownie Under, and Cherry Bon Bon, as well as the classic Banana Split, all made with their signature creamy ice cream and generous toppings.
• Novelties: For a convenient handheld treat, Whitey's offers homemade Novelties, including their famous Chippers and Mint Chippers, which are two homemade cookies with ice cream in the middle.
• Custom Creations: The options are virtually endless, with countless combinations of ice cream flavors and mix-ins for shakes and sundaes, allowing customers to create their perfect dessert.
• Take-Home Options: Customers can purchase pints, quarts, or half-gallons of their favorite flavors to take home, with one reviewer expressing regret that they didn't buy a quart to take with them on their road trip.

The East Moline Whitey's location stands out for several key reasons that make it an essential stop in the community.

• Exceptional Ice Cream Quality: The "super smooth" and "creamy" texture of the ice cream is a consistent highlight for customers, setting it apart from other shops.
• Creative and Varied Menu: Whitey's offers a wide range of unique and delicious flavors and shake combinations, such as the Lemon Bar Shake and White Chocolate Raspberry ice cream, that keep the menu fresh and exciting.
• Local Institution with National Acclaim: The shop's status as a beloved local chain with a history dating back to 1933 is a point of community pride, which is only enhanced by its recognition as one of the best ice cream shops in the world.
• Famous Thick Shakes: The extra-thick shakes and malts, a Whitey's innovation, are a must-try for any visitor and a well-known feature that draws in customers.
• Friendly, Midwestern Charm: As one reviewer noted, the staff and overall feel of the shop exude a "Midwest charm" that makes every visit a pleasant and welcoming experience.

For those who want to visit or get in touch with the East Moline location, here are the details:

Address: 1335 Avenue of the Cities, East Moline, IL 61244, USA

Phone: (309) 755-4313

For the people of East Moline and the broader Quad Cities area, Whitey's Ice Cream is more than just a dessert shop—it's a cherished local institution. Its suitability for locals is rooted in its long history, unwavering commitment to quality, and deep ties to the community. A visit to the Avenue of the Cities location is a chance to participate in a local tradition that has been enjoyed for generations. The ice cream itself is a source of regional pride, with its signature smooth texture and an incredible array of flavors that have earned it a spot among the best in the nation. The menu caters to every taste, from classic scoops to creative and indulgent shakes, ensuring that there is always something to satisfy a craving. For visitors from out of town, as one reviewer's glowing praise shows, Whitey's provides a taste of the Quad Cities that is truly unforgettable. For locals, it's a reliable source of joy, a place to celebrate, and a comfortable spot that feels like home. The friendly staff and convenient location make it a hassle-free and delightful destination, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of the East Moline community.

Whitey's Ice Cream

1335 Avenue of the Cities, East Moline, IL 61244, USA