Summer is here, and nothing beats the heat like a scoop of delicious, creamy ice cream. With National Ice Cream Day just around the corner on July 21, there’s no better time to hit the road in your RV and discover unique ice cream stands across North America. From classic cones to inventive flavors, these stands across the US and Canada offer a delightful experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Let’s embark on a journey to some of the most interesting ice cream stands perfect for your next RV adventure.
Top Ice Cream Destinations
1. Salt & Straw – Portland, Oregon
Salt & Straw started as a small cart in Portland and has now become a beloved institution with locations up and down the West Coast. Known for their quirky and creative flavors, such as Arbequina Olive Oil and Pear & Blue Cheese, Salt & Straw pushes the boundaries of traditional ice cream. Their commitment to using local, sustainable ingredients makes every scoop not only delicious but environmentally friendly. Portland is a fantastic RV destination with numerous campgrounds and RV parks, making it easy to stop by Salt & Straw on your travels. If you’re an avid hiker, Portland has plentiful walking and hiking trails with over 279 parks and natural areas, including Tryon Creek State Park, Powell Butte, and Mount Tabor.
2. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – Columbus, Ohio
Jeni’s Ice Creams has garnered a cult following for their innovative flavors and high-quality ingredients. Founded by Jeni Britton Bauer, this ice cream stand prides itself on using whole ingredients and dairy from grass-pastured cows. Flavors like Brambleberry Crisp and Gooey Butter Cake keep customers coming back for more. Columbus, with its vibrant arts scene and beautiful parks, is a great stop on an RV trip, and Jeni’s is a must-visit while you’re there. Once you’re done exploring Ohio’s capital, head northeast to Ohio’s Amish Country and tour nuCamp’s manufacturing facility in Sugarcreek. Hocking Hills State Park is also just a short drive from the city of Columbus.
3. Cows Creamery – Prince Edward Island, Canada
If you’re visiting Canada’s East Coast, a stop at Cows Creamery is a must. Established in 1983, Cows has been delighting locals and tourists with their rich, creamy ice cream made from a secret recipe. The stand is famous for its quirky cow-themed merchandise and playful flavor names like Moo York Cheesecake and Gooey Mooey. PEI offers beautiful landscapes and plenty of RV-friendly campgrounds, making it a perfect destination for ice cream lovers on the road. Though it’s Canada’s smallest province, PEI is home to 61 lighthouses, which are a must-see on the island along the beautiful coastal landscape.
4. Earnest Ice Cream – Vancouver, British Columbia
Earnest Ice Cream in Vancouver is known for its dedication to sustainability and small-batch production. The stand’s commitment to reducing waste is evident in their use of reusable pint jars and focus on local ingredients. With flavors like Whiskey Hazelnut and London Fog, Earnest Ice Cream offers a sophisticated twist on classic favorites. Vancouver’s stunning scenery and RV parks make it an excellent destination to explore with your RV, with a sweet stop at Earnest Ice Cream. Explore the hedge maze at the serene VanDusen Botanical Garden or enjoy the unique urban oasis of the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, which was named the World’s Top City Garden by National Geographic.
5. Creole Creamery – New Orleans, Louisiana
In the heart of New Orleans, Creole Creamery serves up unique flavors inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the city. With options like Creole Cream Cheese and King Cake, each scoop tells a story of local culture and history. The stand also hosts an ice cream eating contest, challenging customers to finish an enormous sundae called the Tchoupitoulas. New Orleans, with its lively music scene and historical sites, is a fantastic stop for your next RV road trip.
6. Mister Artisan Ice Cream – Toronto, Ontario
Mister Artisan Ice Cream in Toronto offers a modern twist on the traditional ice cream stand with their innovative use of liquid nitrogen. This process creates ultra-smooth ice cream that’s almost too beautiful to eat. Flavors like S’mores, featuring toasted marshmallow and graham crackers, and Matcha, a favorite among tea lovers, are made fresh to order. Toronto is a bustling city with RV parks on the outskirts, making it a great stop on your Canadian road trip. Explore the vibrant city life and then take a day trip to Niagara Falls to see the majestic waterfalls.
7. Sweet Action Ice Cream – Denver, Colorado
Located in the vibrant Baker neighborhood of Denver, Sweet Action Ice Cream is a community favorite. Known for its adventurous flavors and commitment to sustainability, Sweet Action sources ingredients from local farmers and producers. Unique offerings like Stranahan’s Whiskey Brickle and Vegan Maple Walnut appeal to a wide range of tastes. Denver’s scenic beauty and ample RV accommodations make it a perfect destination for a summer adventure with Rocky Mountain National Park just north of the city.
8. Kawartha Dairy – Ontario, Canada
A family-owned business since 1937, Kawartha Dairy has been serving up some of the best ice cream in Ontario for generations. With several locations across the province, this stand is famous for its generous portions and traditional flavors like Moose Tracks and Maple Walnut. The rich, creamy texture and nostalgic taste make Kawartha Dairy a beloved stop for both locals and tourists exploring cottage country.
9. Cool Moon Ice Cream – Portland, Oregon
Cool Moon Ice Cream is another gem worth visiting in Portland. Known for its high-quality, small-batch ice cream, Cool Moon offers unique flavors like Thai Iced Tea and Kulfi, inspired by global tastes. Portland’s reputation as a foodie’s paradise extends to its ice cream stands, and with your RV, you can easily explore all the culinary delights the city has to offer.
A Sweep Escape
From coast to coast, these ice cream stands offer a sweet escape with their unique flavors, high-quality ingredients, and charming atmospheres. Celebrating National Ice Cream Day with an RV trip allows you to enjoy the open road and indulge in some of the best ice cream North America has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of classic scoops or adventurous combinations, these stands provide a delightful experience that celebrates the joy of ice cream. So, pack up your RV, hit the road, and make sure to include a visit to one of these iconic ice cream stands. Your taste buds will thank you!
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