Get Yourself a Cold Treat: 5 Local Ice Cream Shops

Did you know that July is National Ice Cream Month? 

In 1984, President Ronald Reagan designated the entire summer month to ice cream, recognizing the joy and fun this cold treat brings to the much of the nation's population, according to the International Dairy Foods Association. 

In his proclamation, Reagan called for all people of the United States to observe these events with "appropriate ceremonies and activities." 

So why not celebrate? Here are five local ice cream shops to help you take part in the final days of National Ice Cream Month.  

• Kip's Ice Cream at 1136 Thorn Run Road in Moon is a local favorite. The Moon Township shop sells a range of ice cream and frozen yogurt, including sugar free and low-calorie items.

• If you like your dessert and food in one place—the original Shake & Twist serves ice cream, shakes and hot foods. It's not too far at 800 Fourth Ave. in Coraopolis. 

• Clever Cone on the corner of Clever Road and Silver Lane, is a neighborhood icon. Stop by for ice cream, milk shakes, sundaes or hot foods. Located at 528 Clever Road.

• With flavors like sponge candy and lemon pound cake, Sewickley Confectionery at the corner of Beaver and Chestnut streets in nearby Sewickley is hard to resist. For a twist, try the Movie Time ice cream. It tastes like popcorn. 

•  Rita's frozen ice and custard is another place to celebrate ice cream this month. Try an old-fashioned frozen custard in a cup or a cone at 6154 Steubenville Pike. Be sure to add some sprinkles, hot fudge or caramel toppings.