The Experience
Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream is the kind of airport stop that feels like a mini-vacation: quick-service, cheerful, and built around genuinely good ice cream rather than novelty toppings. It’s designed for travelers on the move—order at the counter, grab your scoop, and you’re back to your gate with something that tastes like it was made for locals, not just layovers.
What people love about Kelly’s is the sense of “real” ice cream: creamy texture, bold mix-ins, and flavors that don’t taste watered down. Expect rotating seasonal options alongside crowd-pleasers, plus the choice to keep it simple (a single scoop) or go full treat-yourself with a loaded sundae.
Location & Access
Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream is part of Orlando International Airport’s Terminals A and B dining expansion, with Phase 1 openings slated for 2026. Specific details like the exact concourse, gate landmark (for example, “near Gate B12”), and whether it’s pre- or post-security have not been published in the available airport listings. Before you head over, double-check MCO’s interactive map or concessions directory close to your travel date, since locations can shift during construction.
- Terminal: Terminals A/B (planned)
- Security: Not confirmed yet (check map day-of)
- Seating & waits: Expect limited shared seating typical of airport dessert counters; lines usually spike after big boarding waves and during late afternoon/evening.
Menu Highlights
- Fresh waffle cone + a rotating signature scoop: The move here is to ask what’s newest or most popular—Kelly’s is known for creative, mix-in-heavy flavors that shine best in a cone.
- Two-scoop cup “sampler”: Ideal if you’re torn between something chocolatey and something fruity/bright. Great for sharing with kids without committing to a huge sundae.
- Sundae or loaded cup: If you’ve got a long flight (or you’re celebrating the start of vacation), go for a build with sauce and crunchy toppings—ice cream holds up better than you’d think if you eat it right away.
Prices: MCO hasn’t posted airport pricing in the available sources, but expect airport markups versus street locations. If you’re watching spend, a single scoop or small cup is typically the best value.
Dietary options: Flavor availability varies. Most shops like this offer at least a few vegetarian options by default; vegan/dairy-free and gluten-free choices may be available depending on the day’s lineup (ask about allergens and cross-contact). Halal status isn’t listed—if that matters for you, confirm ingredients and sourcing at the counter.
Practical Info
- Mobile ordering: Not confirmed for the airport location.
- Reservations: No—walk-up service.
- Best times to avoid crowds: Aim for mid-morning or mid-afternoon between peak departure banks; avoid the 5–8 p.m. rush when families and delayed flights converge.
- Power outlets: Not specific to the shop; you’ll typically find outlets at nearby gate seating rather than dedicated dessert-counter tables.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Families with kids, anyone wanting a quick comfort treat, and travelers looking for a local Orlando favorite instead of another chain snack.
- Skip if: You’re in a tight connection window (ice cream lines move slower than coffee lines), or you need guaranteed allergen-/diet-specific options without checking with staff.