The best Mexican ice cream in Huntsville, Decatur + Athens—7 to try now
Reading time: 4 minutes
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.
Guide to Mexican ice cream in Huntsville, Decatur + Athens
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, they 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 🥭
- Fewer preservatives + less sugar 🌱
- A denser texture similar to gelato 🍧
Why are many of these shops called ‘La Michoacana?’
Many Mexican ice cream shops 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. New menu items added in late 2026 include yogurt bowls and mini pancakes.
- 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 heladería. I especially like the cookies-and-cream and cappuccino flavors at this spot.
- Where: 1711 Central Pkwy SW, Decatur, AL 35601
- When: Daily, 11AM-9PM
- More Info
Mi Michoacanita Ice Cream & Snacks 🍦
Mi Michoacanita Ice Cream & Snacks opened just off the Beltline in December 2025, taking over a space previously occupied by a different ice cream shop. This spot is a favorite for esquites (a street-corn-in-a-cup) and other savory snacks, plus a good selection of aguas frescas alongside its fresh ice creams and other sweets.
- Where: 901 Wimberly Dr SW Unit C, Decatur, AL 35603
- When: Tuesday-Thursday, 11AM-9PM; Friday-Saturday, 11AM-10PM
- More Info
El Antojito 🍧
This tiny shop opened in summer 2025, and my favorite ice cream there is the “Beso de Ángel,” 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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