Try these 7 great heladerías + paleterias in Huntsville, Decatur + Athens for delicious ice cream + more

Thanks to a cute new Mexican ice cream and snack shop around the corner from my home, I am finally initiated into the world of heladerías (“ice cream parlors” in Spanish).

While much of this is old news for those in the know, perhaps you’ll discover a new-to-you spot. For those yet to try them, get ready to meet your new craving.

What are heladerías + paleterias?

As you may have deduced from the Spanish word for ice cream parlor being heladería, ice cream is “helado.”

If the spot also sells paletas (popsicles), you may hear it referred to as a paleteria (popsicle shop). Paletas are either water-based (paletas de agua) or milk-based (paletas de leche), like Mexican ice cream, usually feature fresh fruit and other natural ingredients.

Some other major differences you’ll discover between Mexican ice cream and traditional American styles:

🥣 Freshly handcrafted in small batches
🥭 Many creative, unique combinations
🌱 Much less preservatives + sugar
🍧 A denser texture similar to gelato

Why are many of these shops called ‘La Michoacana?’

Many heladerías are called “La Michoacana” or some variation. While they are not all connected businesses under one brand, the name is used by many different shops. It refers to Michoacán, a state in Mexico, and specifically the town of Tocumbo, which made paletas famous in the 1930s and 40s.

🇲🇽 Here’s a great background breakdown on Tocumbo, Michoacán, its delicious paletas, and the shared brand story.

Heladerías + paleterias in Huntsville

🍨 Pepitos Snacks

In addition to the ice cream, people rave about the drinks, elote, churros and many other treats here.

• Where: 1109 Jordan Ln NW UNIT D, Huntsville, AL 35816
• When: Daily, 11AM-9PM
• More Info

🍧 La Michoacana

This one is midway between Bandito Burrito and El Azteca, perfectly positioned for dessert after your meal at either place.

• Where: 2719 Clinton Ave W, Huntsville, AL 35805
• When: Daily, 10AM-9PM
• More Info

🍦La Reyna Michoacana Paleteria y Neveria

Swing by this spot when you’re shopping at Parkway Place, or make a trip solely for a scoop of your favorite flavor.

• Where: 2801 Memorial Pkwy SW, Huntsville, AL 35801
• When: Monday-Saturday, 11AM-6PM; Sunday, Noon-6PM
• More Info

Heladerías + paleterias in Decatur

🍨 La Michoacana Express

This shop, located near the intersection of Central Parkway and 14th Avenue, was Decatur’s first and is the largest in terms of seating. I tried the cookies and cream and cappuccino flavors and enjoyed them.

• Where: 1711 Central Pkwy SW, Decatur, AL 35601
• When: Daily, 11AM-9PM
• More Info

🍦La Michoacanita Camila

La Michoacanita Camila has been on the Beltline for a couple of years and is a favorite for its esquites (a street-corn-in-a-cup concoction, hot Cheetos optional) as well as its ice creams and sweets.

• Where: 901 Wimberly Dr SW Unit C, Decatur, AL 35603
• When: Tuesday-Thursday, 11AM-9PM; Friday-Saturday, 11AM-10PM
• More Info

🍧 El Antojito

At this new shop that opened late this summer, I loved trying the “Beso de Ángel” ice cream, which translates to “angel’s kiss.” It’s a traditional Mexican ice cream flavor with a cherry base full of colorful marshmallows, pecans, almonds, coconut and walnuts.

• Where: 137 14th St SW, Decatur, AL 35601
• When: Monday-Thursday, 11AM-9PM; Friday-Sunday, 11AM-10PM
• More Info

Heladerías + paleterias in Athens

🍨 Pepitos Snacks and Tacos

This outpost of the Huntsville favorite (see above) is like the original, offering plenty of delicious sweets and much more, such as Korean corn dogs, street tacos, tortas, Mexican hot dogs, seafood and even ramen.

• Where: 659 US Hwy 72 W, Athens, AL 35611
• When: Daily, 9AM-9PM
• More Info

Map: Local heladerías + paleterias

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