We all have different things that help us relax, right? Mine is 100% ice cream. And it's National Ice Cream Day! This is practically a national holiday at my place. Today, I thought I'd share a roundup of my favorite ice cream that you can buy in pints, and my favorites ice cream shops.

Buy at the Store

• Talenti Salted Caramel
• Ben & Jerry's Half Baked
• Coolhaus Molten Chocolate Cake
• Tillamook Jam Packed Sugar Cookies
• Ben & Jerry's Urban Bourbon

Go out for a Scoop

• Sweet Peaks, Missoula, Montana

In Montana, Big Dipper reigns supreme, but I prefer the smaller, less flashy Sweet Peaks. It's an unassuming little spot, but totally worth it. Favorites? Gravel Road and Pine + Chocolate.

• Izzy's, Minneapolis, MN

Izzy's is a Minneapolis staple. Every scoop comes with an "izzy" or an extra small sample scoop on top. The line is always long, but the wait is worth it. MY favorite is getting an Izzy Sampler for a bunch of Izzy scoops instead of full-size ones.

• Van Leeuwen's, Brooklyn, NY

Hipster-infested Williamsburg has this gem. I recommend their vegan flavors. I have nothing against vegans, but vegan ice cream? Kind of a no for me. It's about the texture. Their vegan options are actually great. Creamy, soft, perfect. My favorite is Salted Caramel, but for something different, try Planet Earth, flavored with matcha. 

• Milkjam, Minneapolis

Milkjam is one of my favorite spots to go in the Twin Cities. It's in trendy Lyndale, and has a flavor for everyone. It's also beautiful. If you're feeling adventurous, they also offer adult floats made with champagne or beer. My favorites are black, a deep dark chocolate, and milkjam, a goatmilk ice cream.

• Lik's, Denver, CO

This is an adorably tiny shop near Capitol Hill, family-owned. Unlike the other ones on this list, this is about as Ma and Pop as it gets. Try the Apple Pie flavor.

Honorable Mention: Grandpa's in Fridley, MN. Stop by, say hi to Grandpa, and try the black licorice! 

Happy Ice Cream Day, wherever you get your ice creams!