Summertime treats in New Orleans include the Creole Creamery

If you're planning a trip to New Orleans this summer, I feel it's my duty to inform you that it's going to be hot. Really, really hot. As in, melt your face off kind of hot. The summer heat in NOLA is like nothing I've ever felt before -- in short, it's almost unbearable, unless of course you cool off with some great, frozen drinks and other delicacies.

That's where the amazing Creole Creamery in Uptown New Orleans comes into play. The Creamery is, quite simply, one of the best places on Earth to enjoy some of the most unusual ice cream flavors you'll ever have.I've been a huge fan of the Creole Creamery for years now, and I've watched with glee as thousands of New Orleans visitors discover the wonder that is this place. A few years ago, a friend from Ohio wrote me, asking about an ice cream place she'd just seen in an episode of MTV's Real World (New Orleans).

I explained that Creole Creamery is a favorite among locals and was apparently making major waves as an ice cream mecca for tourists, too. This place (which has locations Uptown and in the Lakeview area of NOLA), offers so many interesting, creamy delights, it's really hard to make a decision on just one when you arrive.

Traditionalists will love the Creole Creamery's vanilla, chocolate and cookie dough ice creams. But if you're feeling a little more adventurous, I'd highly recommend giving the Lavender Honey or the Salted Caramel a try. All of the ice creams are made at the Creamery, so the taste is always fresh and delicious!  The last time we visited I tried two vastly different flavors (not together -- I made two trips!): I can also recommend the Thai Basil Coconut and the Pink Grapefruit. Yum!

A complete list of flavors (and it's a long one) can be found on the New Orleans Creole Creamery's official website. Trust me, you'll be amazed.

Add a visit to the Creole Creamery to your list of great places to cool off if you're heading to the Big Easy this summer, and you won't be sorry!