Zano's at Shipyard Park: Homemade Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt in Charleston

What Zano's offers and where to find it

Zano's at Shipyard Park is a casual ice cream and frozen yogurt shop located in the Shipyard Park shopping center in Charleston. The shop makes its ice cream and frozen yogurt in-house, which means the flavors change with the seasons and reflect what the owners decide to create rather than what a corporate menu dictates. You can walk in and order a cone, cup, or bowl, and sit at one of the small tables inside or take your order outside to eat in the shopping center.

The shop sits in a neighborhood spot rather than a tourist corridor, so the crowd tends to be local families, students, and people running errands in the area. Parking is straightforward—you park in the Shipyard Park lot like you would for any other store there. The space itself is small and unpretentious, which fits the homemade approach.

Key Takeaways

• Zano's makes its ice cream and frozen yogurt fresh in-house, so flavors rotate seasonally rather than staying the same year-round.
• The shop offers both traditional ice cream and frozen yogurt options, so you can choose based on what you're in the mood for.
• Zano's is located in Shipyard Park, a neighborhood shopping center with ample parking and nearby retail and dining options.
• The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with seating inside and the option to eat outside in the shopping center.

Homemade ice cream and rotating flavors

Because Zano's makes its ice cream on-site, the flavor lineup shifts. You might find classics like vanilla and chocolate available most of the time, but seasonal specials and limited-run flavors appear and disappear. This approach means regular customers have a reason to check what's new, and first-time visitors might discover something unexpected rather than the same menu they'd find at a chain.

The homemade process also affects texture and richness—ice cream made in small batches tends to have a different mouthfeel than industrial product. If you have preferences about how dense or creamy your ice cream is, or if you're sensitive to certain additives, asking the staff about ingredients is worth doing.

Frozen yogurt as an alternative

Zano's also serves frozen yogurt alongside its ice cream, giving you a lighter option if that's what you want. Frozen yogurt typically has a tangier taste than ice cream and fewer calories, though the exact difference depends on the specific recipe and toppings you choose. Like the ice cream, the frozen yogurt is made in-house.

Some people prefer frozen yogurt on warmer days or if they're looking for something less rich. Others use it as a way to have a frozen treat more often without the heaviness of traditional ice cream. The choice between the two is personal preference.

Toppings and customization

Most ice cream and frozen yogurt shops offer toppings—sprinkles, sauces, nuts, candy pieces, and similar add-ons. Zano's has options available, though the specific selection may vary. You can ask what's on hand when you visit, and the staff can tell you what combinations work well together.

Customization is part of the appeal of a small shop. You're not locked into preset combinations; you can build what sounds good to you in that moment.

Hours and what to bring

Zano's operates year-round, though hours may shift seasonally. It's worth checking current hours before you go, especially if you're planning a visit on a weekday evening or Sunday, as smaller shops sometimes have different schedules than chain restaurants. You can call ahead or check online to confirm they're open.

Bring cash or a card—most small shops accept both, but it's always smart to have a backup payment method. If you're bringing children, note that the shop is indoors with limited seating, so on very busy days it can feel crowded. Off-peak times (mid-afternoon on a weekday, for example) tend to be more relaxed.

Nearby in Shipyard Park

Shipyard Park is a neighborhood shopping center, so Zano's sits alongside other retail and dining options. If you're making a trip to the area, you might combine your ice cream visit with other errands or grab lunch or dinner nearby. The center has the feel of a local shopping area rather than a strip mall designed around a single anchor store.

The location also means Zano's draws from the surrounding neighborhoods rather than relying on tourist traffic, which shapes the vibe and the customer base you'll encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Zano's have dairy-free or vegan options?

That depends on what Zano's has made in a given week. Because the shop makes everything in-house and flavors rotate, you'll need to ask when you visit. Call ahead if you have dietary restrictions, and the staff can tell you what's currently available or what might be coming soon.

Can I order ice cream cakes or large quantities for an event?

Many small ice cream shops do custom orders for parties and events, but policies vary. Contact Zano's directly to ask whether they take orders for cakes, pints, or bulk quantities, and how much advance notice they need.

Is there seating outside?

Zano's has seating inside the shop, and you can take your order outside to eat in the Shipyard Park shopping center area. There may be benches or tables in the center itself, depending on the layout. On nice weather days, eating outside is a pleasant option.

What's the price range for a cone or cup?

Prices at small ice cream shops vary based on size and toppings. A basic single or double scoop will cost less than a large cup with multiple toppings and mix-ins. Call or visit to see current pricing, which may have changed since this guide was written.

Does Zano's take credit cards?

Most small shops accept both cash and cards, but it's worth confirming when you visit or call. Having both payment methods available is always a safe approach.