Scoop into summer with Connecticut’s coolest spots! From classics to wild, flavor-packed twists, these local ice cream shops and creameries are serving up sweet bites and serious creativity—one cone at a time.
Whether you're craving a classic cone or ready to try something bold, we've rounded up the best ice cream spots to hit in Connecticut this summer.
Ferris Acres Creamery (Newtown)
Ferris Acres Creamery is set on a picturesque family farm and serves up delicious homemade ice cream made with the freshest local ingredients. Favorite flavors like Cow Trax and Raspberry Swirl Chunk keep ice cream lovers coming back for more.
Plasko’s Farm Creamery & Cafe (Trumbull)
At Plasko’s Farm, premium homemade ice cream is made fresh daily using top-quality ingredients. Watch the magic happen through their viewing window, then sample a few fan-favorite flavors.
Saugatuck Sweets (Fairfield)
Saugatuck Sweets is a local gem known for its wide selection of delicious ice cream flavors and creative toppings. With its friendly service and outdoor seating, it’s the ideal place to indulge in a sweet treat on a warm day.
Walnut Beach Creamery (Milford)
Steps away from the Long Island Sound, Walnut Beach Creamery is in the heart of Milford. It offers a variety of ice cream flavors made with high-quality ingredients, including traditional favorites and unique creations like Muddy Cheesecake.
The Big Dipper Ice Cream Parlour (Prospect)
A local legend since 1986, The Big Dipper serves award-winning, small-batch ice cream made fresh on-site with local dairy. With over 50 flavors and decades of family tradition, it’s a must-visit scoop spot.
Wells Hollow Creamery (Shelton)
Set on a fifth-generation farm, Wells Hollow offers over 60 flavors and a spacious outdoor patio perfect for summer nights. It's a must-visit for classic cones, sundaes, and sweet memories.
Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream (Griswold)
Known for its creamy texture and farm-fresh flavors, Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream is a summer staple in Griswold. Their Sunflower Ice Cream is a hit during the annual Sunflowers for Wishes event, which also supports a great cause.
Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream (Mystic)
Located by the scenic Mystic River, Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream provides a delightful experience with its premium, handmade ice cream. Their unique flavors, such as Mystic Mud, reflect the local charm.
Rich Farm Ice Cream (Oxford)
At Rich Farm Ice Cream, you get a taste of tradition with every scoop, thanks to their century-old family recipes. Their seasonal flavors, like Pumpkin and Eggnog, are eagerly anticipated each year.
Ashley’s Ice Cream (Madison)
Ashley’s Ice Cream has been a Connecticut favorite since 1979, famous for its rich, creamy texture and diverse flavor selection. Their signature Ashley’s Mud Pie is a must-try for any first-time visitor.
Sweet Claude’s Ice Cream (Cheshire)
Sweet Claude’s offers a nostalgic vibe with its quaint setting and classic ice cream parlor feel. Their Salty Pretzel and Claude's Cupcake flavors have garnered a loyal following over the years.
Capital Ice Cream (Hartford)
Capital Ice Cream is a must-visit for any ice cream lover, offering a delicious selection of handcrafted flavors. The vibrant, welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to enjoy a sweet treat with friends and family.
Arethusa Dairy Farm (Bantam)
A true farm-to-scoop concept, Arethusa uses fresh milk and cream directly from its own dairy farm, ensuring an unparalleled level of quality and flavor. Each scoop is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Their classic flavors are tried and true, but we love the seasonal additions to the menu.
Tulmeadow Farm (West Simsbury)
Tulmeadow Farm offers a delightful escape into creamy indulgence with their locally renowned ice cream. Treat yourself to a scoop (or two) amidst the picturesque farm setting.
Timothy’s Ice Cream (Bridgeport)
Timothy’s Ice Cream is a small, family-run shop known for its top-notch quality and friendly service. Their flavors like Mocha and Peppermint are a testament to their commitment to deliciousness firsthand.