King of Pops: Handmade Popsicles and Frozen Treats in Charleston

What King of Pops is and where to find it

King of Pops is a Charleston-based popsicle shop that makes frozen treats by hand using fresh fruit, herbs, and other ingredients. The original location sits on King Street in downtown Charleston, and the business has expanded to a second location and a mobile cart that appears at farmers markets and events around the Lowcountry. Every popsicle is made fresh in small batches, which means flavors change with the seasons and what's available from local suppliers.

The shop opened in 2010 and has become a fixture in Charleston's dessert scene. Unlike mass-produced popsicles, King of Pops uses real fruit juice, purees, and whole ingredients—no artificial flavors or high-fructose corn syrup. The result is a popsicle that tastes like what it claims to be: strawberry tastes like strawberries, not strawberry-flavored sugar.

Key Takeaways

• King of Pops makes all popsicles fresh daily in small batches, so flavors rotate based on seasonal fruit and ingredient availability.
• The downtown Charleston location on King Street is open year-round, with extended hours during warmer months and reduced hours in winter.
• Popsicles cost between $4 and $6 depending on size and whether you choose a basic fruit flavor or a specialty blend.
• The shop also sells popsicle molds and other frozen treats like ice cream sandwiches and sorbets, making it a destination for multiple dessert options.

Seasonal flavors and what to expect

King of Pops rotates its menu based on what fruit and herbs are in season. Summer brings flavors like peach, blueberry, and watermelon. Fall and winter see offerings like apple cinnamon, pumpkin, and citrus blends. The shop also creates savory or herb-forward popsicles—cucumber mint, basil strawberry, and jalapeño mango appear regularly depending on the season.

The shop typically has 8 to 12 flavors available on any given day, split between classic options that appear most weeks and rotating specials. If you have a favorite, ask the staff when it last appeared; they can often tell you when it's likely to return. During peak summer months, the shop may sell out of popular flavors by late afternoon, so arriving earlier in the day improves your chances of getting what you want.

Pricing and size options

A standard popsicle runs $4 to $5, depending on whether you choose a single-stick pop or a larger format. Specialty popsicles—those with multiple ingredients, premium fruit, or added elements like chocolate coating—cost closer to $6. The shop also sells popsicle molds if you want to make your own at home, and ice cream sandwiches made with house-made ice cream and cookies run $6 to $8.

King of Pops accepts cash and card. If you're visiting during summer, bring cash or check their current hours before you go, as the shop sometimes closes earlier than posted if they sell through their daily batch.

The downtown King Street location and hours

The main King of Pops shop is located at 409 King Street in downtown Charleston, in the heart of the shopping and dining district. Parking is street parking or nearby lots; the shop is also walkable from the Market Hall area and the historic district. The location is open year-round, though hours shift with the seasons.

During summer months (roughly May through September), the shop is typically open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. In cooler months, hours contract to afternoons and early evenings, often closing by 6 or 7 p.m. The shop is closed on major holidays. Before visiting, check their website or call ahead to confirm current hours, especially if you're traveling from outside Charleston or visiting in shoulder seasons when hours may vary.

The mobile cart and second location

King of Pops operates a mobile cart that appears at Charleston-area farmers markets, festivals, and community events throughout the year. The cart carries a rotating selection of popsicles and is a good option if you're already at a market or event. The schedule changes seasonally, so check their social media or website to see where the cart will be on a given weekend.

A second brick-and-mortar location has opened in the Charleston area in recent years, though it operates on a seasonal schedule. Both the mobile cart and secondary location carry the same fresh, small-batch popsicles as the King Street shop, so you'll find the same quality and rotating flavors no matter which location you visit.

Why King of Pops stands out in Charleston's dessert scene

Charleston has no shortage of dessert options, from traditional bakeries to ice cream shops to fine-dining pastry programs. King of Pops occupies a specific niche: it's a casual, affordable, and ingredient-focused alternative to mass-produced frozen treats. The shop's commitment to using real fruit and local suppliers aligns with Charleston's broader food culture, where sourcing and seasonality matter.

The popsicles are also Instagram-friendly—the bright colors and clean presentation make them popular with visitors documenting their Charleston trip. But beyond the visual appeal, the shop delivers on flavor. A strawberry popsicle tastes like summer, and a basil popsicle tastes like an herb garden. That attention to ingredient quality is what keeps locals returning, not just tourists.

What to know before you visit

King of Pops is a walk-up shop with limited seating, so plan to eat your popsicle while walking or find a nearby bench or park. The shop is small and can get crowded during peak afternoon hours in summer, so expect a short wait on hot days. If you're sensitive to cold, note that popsicles melt quickly in Charleston heat, so eat promptly after purchase.

The shop does not take reservations or pre-orders for popsicles, though they may accommodate special requests for events or large groups if you call ahead. If you're visiting with children, know that popsicles are messy by nature—bring napkins or plan for sticky hands. The shop itself is family-friendly and welcoming to all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are King of Pops popsicles made with real fruit?

Yes. The shop uses fresh fruit, fruit purees, and whole ingredients like herbs and spices. There are no artificial flavors or high-fructose corn syrup. The exact ingredients vary by flavor and season, but the commitment to real fruit is consistent across the menu.

Can I find King of Pops outside of Charleston?

King of Pops is based in Charleston and operates locations in the Charleston area. The shop does not have locations in other cities, though you may find their products at some specialty retailers or farmers markets in the region. Your best bet is to visit during a trip to Charleston or check their website for any expanded distribution.

Do they have sugar-free or dairy-free options?

Popsicles are naturally dairy-free since they're frozen fruit-based treats. Sugar content varies by flavor—some use added sugar, while others rely on fruit's natural sweetness. Call ahead or ask the staff on the day you visit about specific dietary needs or ingredient questions for a particular flavor.

What's the best time to visit King of Pops?

Early afternoon on a weekday in summer offers shorter lines and a full selection of flavors. Weekends and late afternoons can get crowded, and popular flavors may sell out. Winter visits are quieter but with reduced hours and a smaller flavor selection. If you have a favorite flavor in mind, ask the staff when it's likely to return.

Can I buy King of Pops popsicles for a party or event?

Call the shop ahead of time to discuss larger orders or special requests. While they don't take formal reservations, the staff can work with you on quantities and timing for events. The mobile cart is also available for some private events or gatherings, depending on scheduling.