Summer in Columbia. Whether that means summer courses, working, or both, everyone needs to take a break from life and the heat every now and then. Craving a treat to help you cool off as you embrace your summer? Try one of these MOVE-approved places. (Or, you know, try all of them, because why not?)
**Blenders Smoothies and Juice**
Just a few steps off campus, Blenders offers two sides of smoothies: health-nut-friendly supplement ones and just plain delicious ones for those less concerned with vitamins. With a menu arranged by flavor category and perfectly witty smoothie names, Blenders is perfect for anyone wanting a cool drink after a summer class.
**Andy’s**
How do I even begin to describe my love for Andy’s? Andy’s does not serve plain old ice cream. Andy’s goes the extra mile, serving thick frozen custard churned by God himself. While their malts and shakes are probably to die for, there’s no going wrong with a classic concrete: creamy vanilla custard mixed with whatever glorious toppings your little heart could desire. Even though the walk-up window sometimes draws a crowd, Andy’s custard is worth the wait during a CoMo summer (or any season for that matter).
**El Rancho**
Didn’t think you’d see a Mexican restaurant on here, did you? Aside from its Mexican entrees, El Rancho serves up horchata, a traditional Mexican drink. Commonly made with milk, cinnamon, sugar and vanilla, this refreshing drink is perfect for humid nights in CoMo, and a great fit for daring foodies wanting to try something new. Grab a bite of Mexican food while you’re at it. Best served after midnight.
_and of course…_
**Sparky’s **
There’s no way Sparky’s could not be on this list. If you haven’t tried the crazy flavors Sparky’s has to offer, stop reading this right now and get yourself downtown. Aside from classic – but still delicious – flavors such as chocolate and vanilla, Sparky’s ventures into the more crazy, experimental side of ice cream, with flavors ranging from lavender honey (my personal favorite) to maple syrup and bacon. There’s a reason people of Columbia rave about the painting-filled ice cream parlor, and you don’t want to miss out on any flavors of the summer.
