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Carl's Ice Cream Factory

Ice Cream Shop · Inexpensive ·

University Park Plaza Shopping Center, 1700 W College Ave, Normal, IL 61761, United States

Menu and hours last checked

Carl's Ice Cream Factory

About Carl's Ice Cream Factory

Located inside the University Park Plaza Shopping Center in Normal, Illinois, Carl's Ice Cream Factory feels like the kind of neighborhood ice cream shop people keep coming back to when they want something sweet without overcomplicating the experience. The place has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, so it works equally well for a quick afternoon stop, a casual dessert run after dinner, or even a laid-back coffee break during the day. Since the shop offers both dine-in seating and takeout options, visitors can either settle in and enjoy their treats slowly or grab something on the go when time is tight. The drive-through also adds a lot of convenience, especially during busy evenings or warm summer weekends when everyone seems to be craving ice cream at once.

Carl's Ice Cream Factory stands out because it balances a classic ice cream shop vibe with a comfortable local feel. Families, students, and groups of friends all seem to fit naturally into the space, creating an energetic but still easygoing environment. The onsite services make ordering smooth, while the layout keeps things casual instead of overly formal. Even though delivery is not available, the quick service and accessible location near West College Avenue make stopping by feel simple and worth the trip.

Another detail that gives the shop extra appeal is the addition of coffee on the menu. That small touch makes the place more versatile, especially for visitors who want something warm alongside a frozen dessert. Whether someone is dropping in for a fast treat through the drive-through or spending time inside with friends, Carl's Ice Cream Factory delivers the kind of straightforward comfort that keeps an ice cream shop memorable in a busy college-town setting.

Where this information comes from

Prices and dish names are transcribed from the restaurant's printed menu, photographed in August 2026 and reproduced on the menu page. Hours, address and service options come from the restaurant's public business profile. An editor confirmed the restaurant was trading on 4 September 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

Photos

Business info

Service options

  • Drive-through
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • No Delivery

Popular for

  • Solo dining

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Wheelchair accessible restroom

Offerings

  • Coffee

Dining options

  • No Table service

Amenities

  • Restroom
  • Wi-Fi

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Trending

Crowd

  • Groups

Planning

  • Quick visit

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Children

  • Good for kids

Opening hours

  • Monday 10:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Tuesday 10:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Wednesday 10:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Thursday 10:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Friday 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Saturday 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Sunday 10:00 AM - 09:00 PM

Hours can change on public holidays. Call ahead if you are making a special trip.

Location

University Park Plaza Shopping Center, 1700 W College Ave, Normal, IL 61761, United States

Diner notes

4.4 4.4 out of 5 · 1132 notes
  • 5 stars 783
  • 4 stars 216
  • 3 stars 75
  • 2 stars 33
  • 1 stars 60
4 out of 5
This is a nice little diner-type spot with food and ice cream. I have yet to try the actual food, but I did find myself tempted by some of the lunch specials they had going on. Instead, I went for two scoops.if.Almond Joy in a waffle cone and it was pretty darn good. The atmosphere is kitchy and fun with a 50s feel to it.
TM Tommy Mac Ate here , 21:49 am
5 out of 5
If you ever wondered what chocolate covered cheesecake on a stick is like apply your brakes here. They have a brownie ice cream sandwich that is the size of a regular sandwich.
EH Ed Huggler II Ate here , 18:14 am
5 out of 5
Had lunch burgers at Carl's today with part of my family. Nice meaty burgers, great fries. Good, fast service, food delivered to our table. We've been there before, and we'll be back.
ME michael edwards Ate here , 18:39 am

Eaten at Toddle Inn?

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