06/26/2026
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Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
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- Germantown - Penn Knox
- Wayne Avenue
- Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard was the largest Italian Ice concept in the nation, operating in 31 states with over 600 shops. Offering a variety of frozen treats including its famous Italian Ice, made fresh daily, Frozen Custard, Milkshakes, Sundaes, CustardCookie Sandwiches, layered Gelati, as well as signature Misto and Blendini creations, Rita's provided a delightfully different treat experience. Founded by Bob Tumolo and his mother Elizabeth in 1984, Rita's started as a small porch window operation in Bensalem, PA. They developed their own Italian Ice recipe and quickly perfected the flavors and consistency by adding chunks of fresh fruit to some of the flavors. Named after Bob's wife, RITA!, the business grew steadily and spread happiness everywhere it went. Sadly, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard has permanently closed its doors.
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Address
5815 Wayne Avenue
Philadelphia, PA
19144
To reach Wayne Avenue in Philadelphia, you have a few options for public transport and driving/parking:
Public Transport:
1. From Center City Philadelphia, you can take the SEPTA Regional Rail Line (Manayunk/Norristown Line) to the Wayne Junction Station. From there, it's a short walk to Wayne Avenue.
2. Alternatively, you can take the Broad Street Subway Line (Orange Line) or the Market-Frankford Subway Line (Blue Line) to the Erie-Torresdale Station. From there, you can transfer to a bus that will take you to Wayne Avenue.
Driving/Parking:
1. If you're coming from Center City Philadelphia, head northwest on Vine Street and continue onto Ridge Avenue. Follow Ridge Avenue until it intersects with Wayne Avenue.
2. If you're coming from outside of Philadelphia, take I-76 (Schuylkill Expressway) and exit at Girard Avenue. Head east on Girard Avenue until it intersects with Wayne Avenue.
Parking options:
- There are street parking spaces available along Wayne Avenue and the surrounding streets. Be sure to check for any parking restrictions or time limits.
- There may be paid parking lots or garages in the vicinity of Wayne Avenue where you can park your vehicle.
Please note that these directions are provided for general reference and it's always recommended to use GPS or mapping services for more accurate directions based on your specific starting point.
Opening Hours
| Monday | 12pm - 10pm |
| Tuesday | 12pm - 10pm |
| Wednesday | 12pm - 10pm |
| Thursday | 12pm - 10pm |
| Friday | 12pm - 10pm |
| Saturday | 12pm - 10pm |
| Sunday | 12pm - 10pm |
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What people say
Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard on Wayne Avenue in Philadelphia is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a delightful and refreshing treat. As the largest Italian Ice concept in the nation, with over 600 shops across 31 states, Rita's has established itself as a leader in the ice cream industry.
One of the highlights of Rita's is their famous Italian Ice, made fresh daily. With a wide variety of flavors to choose from, you can indulge in classic favorites or try something new and exciting. The consistency and flavors of their Italian Ice are perfected to provide a truly satisfying experience. What sets Rita's apart is their addition of chunks of fresh fruit to some of their flavors, adding an extra burst of flavor and texture.
In addition to their Italian Ice, Rita's also offers Frozen Custard, Milkshakes, Sundaes, Custard Cookie Sandwiches, layered Gelati, as well as signature Misto and Blendini creations. The options are endless, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The story behind Rita's is both heartwarming and inspiring. It all started in 1984 when Bob Tumolo, a former Philadelphia firefighter, began selling Italian Ice from a small porch window in Bensalem, PA. Together with his mother Elizabeth, they created their own recipe for Italian Ice and quickly gained popularity with their fresh and delicious treats. Naming the business after his wife Rita was a testament to the love and dedication that went into building this brand.
Despite its growth and success over the years, Rita's remains committed to its roots. They continue to make their frozen treats fresh every day using real fruit. This dedication ensures that each visit to Rita's is just as refreshing and enjoyable as it was back when they first opened their doors.
Whether you're craving a cool treat on a hot summer day or simply want to indulge your sweet tooth with something delicious, Rita's Italian Ice & Frozen Custard on Wayne Avenue is the place to go. With their wide range of flavors and consistently high-quality products, you're guaranteed to leave with a smile on your face and a satisfied palate. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the joy and happiness that Rita's brings to every customer.