Gracie’s in Union Square is but one of several top-quality ice cream shops dotted throughout the city.

By Molly Rains

It’s midsummer in Somerville, and with temperatures in the high 90s and humidity to match, there’s nothing better than a cone of ice cream to boost the spirits. We’ve got the scoop on local ice cream shops to satisfy your sweet tooth and keep you cool.

Tipping Cow: Winter Hill

At 415 Medford St., visit what owners Gerly Adrien and David Lindsey describe as the only 100% peanut, tree nut, and sesame-free ice cream purveyor in all of New England. With classic flavors alongside funky cones like key lime and peach cobbler, this cozy shop has something for every sweet tooth. Open from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.

Forge Baking Company and Ice Cream Bar: Spring Hill

Peach Cobbler is just one of the unique flavors found at Tipping Cow Ice Cream on Medford St. — Photo courtesy of Hannah Fortier

Ice cream is an added bonus at Forge Baking Company, a bakery and café at 626 Somerville Avenue serving up flavors including lychee sorbet, malted vanilla, and, fittingly, cold-brew coffee. Craving caffeine? Try a decadent affogato: two shots of espresso served over ice cream of your choosing. To get your hands on some Forge ice cream, order online at https://www.forgebakingco.com/. Open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day.

Gracie’s Ice Cream: Union Square

At 22 Union Square, the crew at Gracie’s make small batches of ice cream right behind the counter. Choosing between fun and fresh flavors like sweet cream, grape nuts, salty whiskey, and devil dogs is tough, but you can’t go wrong! Order online at https://icecreamgracies.com/ for pickup at the storefront in Union Square. Open from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m. every day.

J.P. Licks: Davis Square

This vibrant shop in Davis Square is a great place to pick up fun flavors of ice cream, frozen yogurt, and shakes. J.P. stands for Jamaica Plain, where the company was founded in 1981. Today, 17 locations in Greater Boston ensure that you’re never too far from great ice cream, including a rotating selection of fun flavors as well as vegan and lactose-free options. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; 11:00 a.m. through 12:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday.