From Mexican paletas and Colombian gelato pops to vegan dairy-free treats and boozy flavors for parents, here's where to find the DMV's best artisan popsicles this summer.

While swims and air conditioning are great ways to cool off, try a more creative way to beat the heat by visiting one of the DMV area's best artisan popsicle stands. These delicious treats come in a variety of flavors and styles that make every location unique, and many are within a short drive from the DMV area.

WASHINGTON, DC

Jarabe Gourmet Pops

Offering elite summer treats for kids and adults, Jarabe Gourmet Pops has multiple locations across the DMV so any family can enjoy a cool summer treat. A new twist on Mexican paletas, Jarabe's pops are inspired by Mexican, Latin American, Jamaican and Caribbean flavors. Jarabe features classic flavors like watermelon, mango and lemonade as well as new takes like tamarind, cucumber lime and hibiscus rosemary. Ice cream lovers can also enjoy creamy pops in flavors like strawberry yogurt, chocolate ganache and café con leche. If parents want to relax after a long day of kids' activities and summer fun, they can try a "boozy pop" in specialty flavors that update monthly. Jarabe embraces a zero-waste and upcycling philosophy, utilizing fruits that otherwise would have been thrown away by local grocers and turning fruit rinds into compost.

  • Address: Pops offered at farmers markets across DC and Maryland; check the website for upcoming locations.
  • Who it works for: 10 and up
  • Cost expectation: $5 and up

Maracas Ice Pops

Shake things up at Maracas Ice Pop stand. With locations at FRESHFARM Markets and in the Nationals Stadium, Maracas Ice Pops use all natural flavors and fresh ingredients.

  • Address: FRESHFARM Markets, 1098 New York Ave. NW, Washington, DC; Old Town Farmers' Market, 301 King St., Alexandria, VA
  • Who it works for: 2 and up
  • Cost expectation: $5 and up

MARYLAND

Amano Real Fruit

Offering Colombian-inspired handmade ice pops, Amano combines Colombian flavors with Italian gelato techniques. Located in Rockville, Amano is dedicated to creating fun and healthy treats.

  • Address: Based in Rockville, popsicles are available at restaurants, farmers markets and retail partners. Check social media for upcoming events and partners near you.
  • Who it works for: 10 and up
  • Cost expectation: $3-$10

Tasty Toucan

With a diverse range of flavors, Tasty Toucan's vegan and dairy-free paletas are a delicious way to cool off this summer. Be sure to check out their ice cream and candy treats while you're there.

  • Address: 400 Love Point Road, Stevensville
  • Who it works for: 6 and up
  • Cost expectation: $4 and up

VIRGINIA

Happy Michoacana

Innovative and delicious treats, Happy Michoacana offers cream-based and dairy-free popsicles in addition to their ice cream and drink selections. This Fredericksburg-based family business has unique flavors kids, teens and parents can enjoy.

  • Address: 1146 Patriot Highway, Fredericksburg
  • Who it works for: 8 and up
  • Cost expectation: $3.25 and up

Fantasticks

Home to gourmet custom gelato pops, Fantasticks offers a creative way to enjoy a sweet treat. Kids will love the ability to choose their own flavors, toppings and chocolate drizzle.

  • Address: 44715 Thorndike St., Ashburn, VA, and Rio Lake Front, MD
  • Who it works for: 9 and up
  • Cost expectation: $6 with additional costs for toppings

Big Lick Ice Cream Co.

Big Lick's richly flavored, small-batch ice pops are a family-favorite at the Blacksburg Farmers Market. In addition to their many fruit pops, Big Lick also makes artisan ice cream and cookie sandwiches.

  • Address: 100 Draper Road, Blacksburg
  • Who it works for: 7 and up
  • Cost expectation: $4 and up

Joysicles

Available at multiple farmers markets across the state, these natural popsicles are a unique summer treat. Pops are made from locally grown fruits, vegetables and herbs.

  • Address: Available at farmers markets across coastal Virginia, check the website for more details.
  • Who it works for: 7 and up
  • Cost expectation: $4 and up

Pop Love

Elevate your beach day with a stop at Pop Love at Virginia Beach. This company's gelato on a stick provides tropical flavors in a low-calorie and low-sugar treat.

  • Address: 4291 Holland Road, Suite 111, Virginia Beach
  • Who it works for: 2 and up
  • Cost expectation: $4-$10 per pop