Do you scream for ice cream? I’m always up for a cone on a hot summer’s day (and hardly shy away when the snow flies!). For all you ice cream lovers, here’s my ever-growing list of some of the BEST ice cream in Canada — most are small-batch / homemade! Whether you’re close to home or heading across the country, these are delicious spots you’re gunna wanna try (if you haven’t already).
Ice Cream Road Trip Across Canada
I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!
Last Update: January 7, 2024
A few years ago, I learned that Icelanders have a specific word that translates to ice cream road trip. That’s right! The word is “ísbíltúr” (ease-beel-tour). Shouldn’t Canada have a word like that? (I could probably be really happy in Iceland).
Even without our own cool word (pun intended), many Canadians love ice cream road trips all year round. My fondness for what the French call crème glacée led to the creation of this massive ice cream road trip itinerary (Side note: I really hope someone does the full trip one day… but probably better in chunks — like Ben and Jerry’s). Before we get started, I want to say that I relished every minute of research that went into this article. If it’s on the list, I’m sure you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds (I sure did).
DISCLAIMER: Ice cream may cause brain freeze and will most certainly result in heaps of happiness. If brain freeze results, press your tongue or thumb against the roof of your mouth or drink something warm.
Since I’m originally from the East Coast, let’s take this Ultimate Ice Cream Road Trip Across Canada from east to west! Buckle up and get ready for over 50 taste-tested and delicious ice cream spots to try. Here we go!
Growlers Ice Cream (Fogo Island, NL)
We’re starting off strong! I was very impressed by the homemade ice cream options in Newfoundland and Labrador. If you make it to Fogo Island, your trip will be made better with Growlers Ice Cream. Handmade ice cream with delicious local touches, like local berry flavours to choose from (YES, PLEASE). Partridgeberry jam tart and wild blueberry made their way onto my cone. Honestly, this could be the best ice cream in Newfoundland! Definitely worth a stop before or after exploring several coastal hiking trail options or the vibrant arts scene on Fogo (don’t miss Adam Young’s Studio).
Open: Seasonal
Address: 125 Main Street, Joe Batt’s Arm, Newfoundland and Labrador
Website: Facebook and Instagram
Pssssst. Did you know that Brimstone Head Hiking Trail is only 20 minutes away?
Lickety Split (Twillingate, NL)
Twillingate is one of the most popular summer destinations in Newfoundland, with plenty of hiking trails, sea kayaking, delicious restaurants and craft beer, and of course, Lickety Split. The wild blueberry sundae (made with fresh Newfoundland blueberries) had me coming back for more. In fact, Lickety Split was my first stop after hiking the Rockcut Twillingate Trails on a hot summer’s day. Yummm!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 28 Toulinquet Rd, Twillingate, Newfoundland & Labrador
Website: Facebook
Read next: 7 Best Things To Do in Twillingate, Newfoundland
Sweet Rock Ice Cream (Rocky Harbour, NL)
You can’t visit Newfoundland and Labrador without stopping at Sweet Rock Ice Cream. They make small-batch and locally inspired ice cream, and use ingredients from The Rock whenever possible. Started in the historic town of Trinity, Sweet Rock now has ice cream shops in several locations across Newfoundland. I had a cone with blueberry and vanilla in Rocky Harbour before heading out on the Long Range Traverse.
Open: Seasonal
Address: Various locations. 41 Main St N, Rocky Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador
Website: https://sweetrockicecream.ca/
Read next: Green Gardens Trail: Hiking in Gros Morne National Park
COWS (Cavendish, PEI)
If you’re from the East Coast, you no doubt know about COWS Ice Cream. Since 1983, COWS has been creating tasty flavours in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island and now has several locations across Canada (and one in Beijing, China!). COWS makes unique homemade flavours (like Wowie Cowie and Moo York Cheesecake) that have enlightened countless taste buds over the years — including mine! PEI Apple Crisp is my favourite. For my Alberta friends, you may have visited COWS in Banff. Their ice cream is great, but their t-shirts might be even better!
Open: Year-round (Cavendish Boardwalk is seasonal)
Address: 9193 PE-6, Cavendish, Prince Edward Island
Website: https://cows.ca/
Holman’s Ice Cream Parlour (Summerside, PEI)
It’s not every day that ice cream surprises me — Holman’s Ice Cream was one of those days! Not only is this small-batch, homemade ice cream made with local ingredients, but these were also the smoothest and richest flavours I’ve had in a while. Could this be the best ice cream in PEI? This family-owned and operated ice cream haven has over 100 homemade recipes waiting for you. Chocolate orange was delicious (then again, I’m sure they all are!). On your next visit to PEI, Holman’s should be on your list!
Open: Year-round
Address: 286 Fitzroy St, Summerside, PEI
Website: https://www.holmansicecream.com/
Masstown Creamery (Masstown, NS)
The Masstown Creamery has been open since August 2018, making small-batch ice cream with milk from local dairy farms. I tried their blueberry ice cream on a waffle cone and it was… delicious! Visitors can watch dairy processing through the viewing window in the creamery. Don’t forget to check out the Masstown Market right across the street, too!
Open: Year-round
Address: 10635 Hwy #2, Masstown, NS
Website: https://masstownmarket.com/shop/creamery/
Tatamagouche Ice Creamery (Tatamagouche, NS)
Tatamagouche Ice Creamery, a Nova Scotia gem, serves up homemade ice cream with a local twist. A scoop of the date square flavour was very tasty. This cozy spot in Tatamagouche not only offers delicious ice cream, but also embodies the warm, small-town charm of the area. If you’re heading through, why not stop for a cone?
Open: Seasonal
Address: 271 Main Street, Tatamagouche, Nova Scotia
Website: https://www.tatamagoucheicecreamery.com/
DeeDee’s Ice Cream (Halifax, NS)
Do you want out-of-the-box flavours in Halifax? DeeDee’s Ice Cream is definitely with a visit. Over the Christmas season, I was craving some chilly goodness and tried their candy cane flavour. Can’t wait to try more! With Nova Scotian suppliers and a socially conscious attitude, this ice cream shop is one of my favourites.
Open: Year-round
Address: 5668 Cornwallis St, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: https://deedees.ca/
Pssssst. Did you know that Pennant Point Trail is only 30 minutes away?
The Fog Company (Halifax, NS)
Don’t miss The Fog Company on the Halifax Waterfront! As soon as you walk through the door, you’ll be hit with the aroma of fresh waffle cones and many different small-batch ice cream flavours to choose from. If you’re not into ice cream, try one of their many sweet treats made in-house. A trendy and fun addition to the waterfront!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 1709 Lower Water St #108, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Website: https://thefogcompany.com/
Sweet Treasures Confectionary (Lunenburg, NS)
In the charming seaside town of Lunenburg, Sweet Treasures Confectionery is a delightful stop for anyone with a sweet tooth — nostalgic candies, handmade fudge, and of course, ice cream! Grab a homemade cone and find out why Sweet Treasures lives up to its name.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 110 Montague Street, Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Website: Facebook
The Real Scoop (Wolfville, NS)
While The Real Scoop hasn’t been around very long, they’ve gained major points for their tasty homemade ice cream! You can take classic flavours like vanilla and chocolate, add in whatever “mix-in’s” you want, and have it served up in a homemade waffle cone bowl. Yum! They’ve got vegan-friendly options, too.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 10 Gaspereau Ave, Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Website: https://realscoop.ca/
Pssssst. Did you know that Cape Split Trail is only 40 minutes away?
Jonny’s Cookhouse & Ice Cream (Berwick, NS)
In the summer, you might have the wait a few minutes to get the best soft serve ice cream around — but it’s worth it! Johnny’s chocolate, vanilla, or twist cone is the creamiest soft-serve I’ve ever had. They have plenty of other frozen treats, too. Not in the mood for ice cream? Johnny’s Cookhouse is one of the hottest burger joints in town.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 4287 Evangeline Trail, Berwick, Nova Scotia
Website: https://jonnysberwick.com/
Truman Blueberry Farms (Aulac, NB)
A local favourite, Truman Blueberry Farms is a family-run business that offers visitors the chance to pick their own juicy blueberries and raspberries in the summertime. They also make some of the best homemade flavours around! Could it be the best ice cream in New Brunswick? Hard to say, but certainly the tastiest raspberry ice cream I’ve ever had. Don’t miss Truman Blueberry Farms on your drive from Nova Scotia to New Brunswick. Worth the stop!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 255 Etter Ridge Rd, Aulac, New Brunswick
Website: https://truemanblueberryfarms.ca/home/
Ice Cream Delight (Shediac, NB)
Are you spending time in Shediac this summer? After you’ve visited the giant lobster (yep, it’s a thing!), I highly suggest stopping by Ice Cream Delight in downtown Shediac. While the ice cream isn’t homemade, their Belgium dip is a tasty treat on a hot summer’s day. You can’t go wrong with their Ferrero Rocher flavour — over 50 flavours to choose from!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 320 Main St, Shediac, New Brunswick
Website: Facebook
Lost and Found Ice Cream (Moncton, NB)
Started during the pandemic, Lost and Found Ice Cream quickly became a fantastic addition to Moncton’s culinary scene. Known for unique, handcrafted flavours, this ice cream shop combines traditional techniques with imaginative twists (like The Movies). For whatever reason, I decided to go with chocolate this time around — and I wasn’t disappointed!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 108 St. George St, Moncton, New Brunswick
Website: https://www.lostandfoundicecream.com/
Sully’s Ice Cream Parlour (Sussex, NB)
Locals go wild for Sully’s! I can understand why — lots of variety and flavours to choose from, and even locally-made Sussex Ice Cream (which I love). If you’re looking for a cool treat, stop by Sully’s for a homemade waffle cone. Sully’s was called one of the best ice cream shops in Canada run by students in 2017, providing summer employment options in this New Brunswick town. Many good reasons to stop by.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 66 Broad St, Sussex, New Brunswick
Website: Facebook
Octopus Ice Cream (St. Martin’s, NB)
St. Martin’s is a quaint coastal village next to the Bay of Fundy, about 40 minutes from Saint John. If you’ve never been, it’s worth taking the drive and continuing onto Fundy Trail Parkway. You could pop into Octopus Ice Cream for a cold treat while perusing the local art gallery. A cute little shop!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 404 Main St, St. Martins, New Brunswick
Website: https://www.octopusicecream.com/
Kredl’s Corner Market (Hampton, NB)
You’ll find lots of things at Kredl’s Corner Market, including locally-made Sussex Ice Cream. I have to say, their honeycomb flavour is my favourite. Honestly, could be the best ice cream New Brunswick has to offer? After stopping by the market, you could take a drive along the stunning Kingston Peninsula or hop on a ferry to explore the area.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 1171 Main St, Hampton, New Brunswick
Website: https://www.kredls.com/
Bella’s Traditional Ice Cream (Saint John, NB)
Looking for small-batch ice cream in Saint John? Bella’s Traditional Ice Cream is the place to go. Artisanal ice cream made with dairy from Maritime farmers. Not a dairy fan? No problem. Bella’s has several dairy-free alternatives, with oat, almond, and coconut bases. Kudos to Bella’s for striving to be environmentally friendly, using only compostable or reusable materials (no plastic!). Bring the glass pint back to be reused another day.
Open: Year-round
Address: 87 Germain St, Saint John, New Brunswick
Website: http://bellastraditional.ca/
Pssssst. Did you know Split Rock Trail is only 20 minutes away?
Pete’s Dairy Bar (St. George, NB)
In the town of St. George, Pete’s Dairy Bar is something of an institution. Since 1984, Pete’s has been offering dozens of ice cream flavours to locals and visitors alike, including Maritime classics like moon mist and orange pineapple (yum!). Florence Marion Garnett (nicknamed “Pete” by her brother) was a pillar of the community and her spirit lives on in this little ice cream parlour.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 7 Main St, St. George, New Brunswick
Website: http://petesdairybar.com/
Pssssst. Did you know Barnaby Head Trail is less than 20 minutes away?
McGuire Chocolate Company (St. Andrews, NB)
Are you heading to St. Andrews by-the-Sea? Don’t miss the McGuire Chocolate Company, located on the main drag. I first met owners Mark and Victoria McGuire in a Spanish class in Calgary. Years later, imagine my surprise to bump into them at their beautiful chocolate and ice cream shop in St Andrews. Of all the ice cream I’ve tasted, McGuires has some of the best in Canada. Plus ethically sourced chocolate and coffee, too! Ask them about Hank.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 174 Water St, St. Andrews, New Brunswick
Website: https://mcguirechocolate.com/
Read next: Sam Orr Pond Trail in the Caughey-Taylor Nature Preserve
Le Scoop Royal (Edmundston, NB)
Are you driving from New Brunswick to Quebec? Along the way, visit Le Scoop Royal in Edmundston for some tasty ice cream on a hot summer’s day. When you’re done at the largest dairy bar in town, take a stroll through the town and explore local shops.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 8 Rue Court, Edmundston, New Brunswick
Website: Facebook
Le Bilboquet (Montreal, QC)
My friend from Montreal was adamant, “You have to try Le Bilboquet!” Now that I’ve been, I can understand the hype. Two scoops of chocolate orange and vanilla raspberry — how could you go wrong? Since 1983, the cleverly named Bilboquet (meaning “cup and ball game” in English) has put smiles on many faces — including mine. I don’t have much to compare… but this could be the best ice cream in Quebec!
Open: Year-round
Address: 1311 Bernard Ave, Outremont, Quebec
Website: https://www.bilboquet.ca/
Stella Luna Gelato Cafe (Ottawa, ON)
I know, I know… Gelato isn’t technically ice cream. Though I still have to add Stella Luna Gelato Cafe to this list. When I lived in Old Ottawa South, I discovered this place and have yet to find better gelato anywhere. While I don’t usually choose chocolate flavours, there’s something about the rich chocolate at Stella Luna’s. Worth a visit!
Open: Year-round
Address: 1103 Bank St, Ottawa, Ontario
Website: https://www.slgelato.com/
Haven’s Creamery (Ottawa, ON)
A fairly new addition to Ottawa, Haven’s Creamery has quickly made a name for itself with handcrafted, rich flavours. Haven’s makes small-batch ice cream using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Located on Bank Street, it’s becoming a go-to spot for those seeking a sweet escape all year round. Whether you’re after a simple vanilla or something more adventurous, Haven’s Creamery is worth the visit. Highly recommend their chai flavour.
Open: Year-round
Address: 755 Bank St, Ottawa, Ontario
Website: https://www.havensicecream.com/
Moo Shu Ice Cream (Ottawa, ON)
If you’re looking for something new, try the one-of-a-kind flavours at Moo Shu Ice Cream. Hong Kong milk tea is one of my favourites. Moo Shu’s small-batch ice cream has become an Ottawa staple, made with Ontario dairy and locally-sourced ingredients. They create high-quality ice cream and provide a living wage for their staff. Great place!
Open: Year-round
Address: 1103 Bank St, Ottawa, Ontario
Website: https://www.mooshuicecream.com/
The Merry Dairy (Ottawa, ON)
Have you heard about The Merry Dairy in Ottawa? Originating from a small ice cream truck, this local favourite offers classic and unique tastes, made with quality local ingredients. I was quite impressed by the variety of flavours. You can’t go wrong here. I wonder if The Merry Dairy has the best ice cream in Ontario….
Open: Seasonal
Address: 102 Fairmont Ave, Ottawa, Ontario
Website: https://themerrydairy.com/
La Cigale (Chelsea, QC)
How could I say no to an insect mascot? Seriously though, La Cigale is a top-notch artisanal ice cream parlour in Quebec. About half an hour from Ottawa, and mere minutes from Gatineau Park, La Cigale’s smooth and refreshing flavours are always worth the stop. Key lime pie, anyone? It’s hard to find better homemade ice cream anywhere in Canada!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 14 Chem. Scott, Chelsea, Quebec
Website: https://www.lacigaleicecream.com
Pssssst. Did you know that Wolf Trail is only 15 minutes away?
Summer’s Ice Cream (Toronto, ON)
Summer’s Ice Cream is a popular place for ice cream lovers in the Toronto area, known for premium homemade ice cream. Located in Yorkville, Summer’s wide range of flavours are made with high-quality ingredients. Did you know they’ve been scooping ice cream for over 35 years? Definitely worth a taste!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 101 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, Ontario
Website: https://www.summersicecream.com/
Peninsula Ice Cream & Treats (Tobermory, ON)
As one of two ice cream spots in Tobermory, Peninsula Ice Cream has earned a place on the list. While the ice cream isn’t homemade, you’ll find plenty of flavours and other treats to choose from. Grab a cone and enjoy strolling around Little Tub Harbour next to Lake Huron, one of the beautiful areas on the Bruce Peninsula.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 4 Bay St, Tobermory, Ontario
Website: http://www.peninsulasupply.ca/
Pssssst. Did you know The Grotto Trail is only 20 minutes away?
Holy Cow’s Ice Cream (Sault St. Marie, ON)
Craving ice cream on the long drive across northern Ontario? I’ve been to Holy Cow’s Ice Cream Parlour a few times now. Located in The Sault, you’ll be sure to find tasty homemade ice cream here, made with dairy from local Ontario farmers. Holy Cow’s mango and strawberry scoops were especially delicious! I’ve heard their dairy-free is pretty good, too.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 938 McNabb St, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Website: https://www.holycowsicecreamparlour.com/
Merla Mae Ice Cream (Thunder Bay, ON)
Starting in the early 1950s, Merla Mae Drive-In has been serving ice cream in Thunder Bay. They’ve blazed forward with a vintage feel, making homemade ice cream that delights the taste buds. I loved their blueberry cheesecake and chai latte flavours. They’ve got dairy-free and gluten-free options, too.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 346 Memorial Ave, Thunder Bay, Ontario
Website: http://www.merlamae.ca/
Chaeban Ice Cream (Winnipeg, MB)
Arriving in Winnipeg at the height of the Syrian war, Zainab and Joseph started Chaeban Ice Cream to give back to their new community. Today, this ice cream shop offers delicious homemade scoops with inspiration from Syria. I loved the unique taste of the “Abir Al Sham” flavour, described as a traditional Syrian recipe with rose and orange blossom water, toasted pistachios and cashews, ricotta cheese, and orchid root powder. I have to say, Chaeban offers some of the most unique ice cream flavours I’ve seen in Canada! If you want to try something new and delicious, add Chaeban to your list!
Open: Year-round
Address: 390 Osborne St, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Website: https://chaebanicecream.com/
Dug & Betty’s Ice Creamery (Winnipeg, MB)
Nestled in the heart of the city, Dug & Betty’s Ice Cream has been delighting generations since 1999. Their rich, creamy scoops—think classic vanilla bean, indulgent chocolate, and seasonal specialties—are made using premium local ingredients. It’s a nostalgic experience you won’t soon forget.
Open: Year-round
Address: 309 Des Meurons St, Winnipeg, MB
Website: dugandbettys.com
Fête Ice Cream & Coffee (Winnipeg, MB)
Fete Ice Cream and Coffee is known for delicious homemade ice cream and quality coffee. Way to go, Winnipeg — another fantastic ice cream shop in your city! I’m all about the fruit ice cream flavours, so I tried strawberry rhubarb crumble and blueberry cheesecake. Both were absolutely delicious. It’s hard to say, but Fete could be the best ice cream in Winnipeg. What do you think?
Open: Year-round
Address: 300 Assiniboine Ave Unit B, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Website: https://www.feteicecreamcoffee.com/
Big Olaf Sundaes (Waskesiu, SK)
Are you heading over to Prince Albert National Park? Stop at Big Olaf in Waskesiu for a cone. While they don’t make their own ice cream, Big Olaf still has tasty cold treats for a hot summer’s day. Grab a cone and head out on your adventure. If you’re into mango ice cream, they had a good one — yum!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 900 Waskesiu Drive, Waskesiu Lake, Saskatchewan
Website: Instagram
Read next: Your Complete Guide to the Bagwa Canoe Route in Saskatchewan
Homestead Ice Cream (Saskatoon, SK)
Don’t leave Saskatoon without tasting Homestead Ice Cream. This iconic ice cream parlour has been a local favourite since 1978, charming visitors with its homemade treats. With an array of flavours to choose from, their chai ice cream stands out as a must-try (the best I’ve tasted!). Homestead is a slice of Saskatoon’s sweet history. Have you tried this Saskatoon ice cream?
Open: Year-round
Address: 822 Victoria Ave, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Website: https://homesteadicecream.ca/
Fable Ice Cream (Saskatoon, SK)
Tucked in Riversdale, Fable Ice Cream is a small-batch gem serving handmade scoops with heart. From roasted strawberry to creative seasonal flavours, everything’s made from scratch — even the waffle cones. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and savour.
Open: Year-round
Address: 633 Avenue H S, Saskatoon, SK
Website: fableicecream.com
Dandy’s Artisan Ice Cream (Regina, SK)
If you’re in Regina, don’t miss out on Dandy’s Ice Cream. I remember driving through Regina in the pouring rain, but had to stop to give this a try. Dandy’s has delicious homemade ice cream, crafted with care and creativity, and a lovely space to visit with friends or family. Their toasted coconut flavour is delicious. Another fantastic addition to Saskatchewan’s artisanal ice cream scene. Check it out!
Open: Year-round
Address: 4570 Albert St, Regina, Saskatchewan
Website: https://www.dandysartisanicecream.com/
Camp Ice Cream (Medicine Hat, AB)
I love a company with a cause. When you buy Camp Ice Cream, you help send kids to summer camp in southern Alberta! How cool is that? As someone who worked at summer camp for seven summers, Camp Ice Cream’s mission struck a chord with me. And their homemade flavours are unique and delicious, like cinnamon toast crunch and fruit loops. Pretty sure those summer camp kids helped inspire these flavours. You’ll find vegan options here, too.
Open: Year-round
Address: 1870 6 Ave SW Bay 1, Medicine Hat, Alberta
Website: https://campicecream.ca/
Kind Ice Cream (Edmonton, AB)
Kind Ice Cream is another example of a fantastic socially-minded business. They’re making delicious homemade ice cream and creating a culture of creativity and inclusion. With a sustainable mindset and a positive message, this community-driven ice cream parlour is worth every penny. Worth visiting the next time you’re in Edmonton. They’ve got dairy and vegan options.
Open: Year-round
Address: 9551 76 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Website: https://www.kindicecream.ca/
Pssssst. Did you know that Amisk Wuche Trail is only 40 minutes away?
Village Ice Cream (Calgary, AB)
For classic flavours done well, check out Village Ice Cream in Calgary or Edmonton. I really enjoyed their vanilla and strawberry flavours. You can’t go wrong, no matter what you choose. Village Ice Cream is part of Alberta’s social fabric and offers homemade ice cream in a welcoming space. Don’t miss it!
Open: Year-round
Address: 431 10 Ave SE, Calgary, Alberta
Website: https://villageicecream.com/
Made by Marcus (Calgary, AB)
After living in Calgary for six years, I’ve come to the conclusion that Made by Marcus creates some of the best artisanal ice cream in Canada. In my humble opinion, as a self-proclaimed ice cream expert, Made by Marcus makes the best ice cream in Calgary — with unique flavours and consistently smooth textures. Lemon curd blueberry and malted chocolate honeycomb as two of my favourite flavours. They have good dairy-free options, too.
Open: Year-round
Address: 221 19 St NW, Calgary, Alberta
Website: https://madebymarcus.ca/
Read next: Douglas Fir Trail in Calgary’s Edworthy Park
The Candy Store (Nanton, AB)
Nanton’s Candy Store is one of those places you have to see to believe. Located in Nanton, about an hour south of Calgary, this classic candy store has a large selection of tasty ice cream and candy treats. If you’re not into the sweet stuff, you might still enjoy browsing the unique antique collection found inside the store.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 2131 20 St, Nanton, Alberta
Website: https://nantoncandy.com/
The Grumpy Goat (Twin Butte, AB)
A while back, I stumbled upon this little ice cream shop in the countryside en route to Waterton National Park. They have plenty of ice cream flavours, sourced from Central Smith in Ontario. And they really do have goats. The Grumpy Goat is a nice spot to take a break in southern Alberta.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 1 Hwy 6, Twin Butte, Alberta
Website: https://thegrumpygoat.business.site/
Pssssst. Did you know that Bear’s Hump Trail is only 20 minutes away?
Old School Bus Ice Cream (Canmore, AB)
Old School Bus Ice Cream has been a staple in Canmore for over 17 years, delighting locals and visitors alike. They may not make their ice cream in-house, but their selection of Chapman’s ice cream won’t disappoint (a tasty Canadian brand). With over 28 flavours of hard ice cream, creamy milkshakes, and their renowned Hawaiian shaved ice, it’s a fantastic pick for anyone spending a day in the Rockies. This charming ice cream bus is a must-visit!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 10 St, Canmore, Alberta
Website: Facebook and Instagram
Pssssst. Did you know Mount Yamnuska Trail is only 25 minutes away?
Grandma’s Place (Jasper, AB)
Fancy a trip to Grandma’s? At Grandma’s Place, you’ll find more than 30 flavours of delicious, homemade ice cream. I still can’t get over that smooth chai flavour, and the apple crumble was oh-so-good. If you like waffle cones, this one was especially tasty. Once in a while, I find a cone that wows me. Grandma’s Place was one of those times!
Open: Seasonal
Address: 616 Connaught Dr, Jasper, Alberta
Website: Facebook
Pssssst. Did you know that Valley of the Five Lakes is only 10 minutes away?
Happy Cow Ice Cream (Fernie, BC)
Are you planning a trip to Fernie this summer? Happy Cow’s Ice Cream is worth the visit. After tubing down the Elk River, we found Happy Cows for a refreshing cone. I loved their creamy mango ice cream. Could this be the best ice cream in Fernie?
Open: Year-round
Address: 561 BC-3, Fernie, British Columbia
Website: https://www.happycowicecream.ca/
Beanpod Chocolate & Gelato (Fernie, BC)
Fernie’s Beanpod Chocolate and Gelato makes everything from scratch — including their fantastic gelato! Sustainable, ethically sourced deliciousness. I enjoyed their rich honeycomb flavour. Did you know they also sell melt-in-your-mouth chocolate? If you want some coffee, enjoy a brew from small-scale farmers in Ecuador. One of the worthwhile stops in Fernie!
Open: Year-round
Address: 691 2 Ave, Fernie, British Columbia
Website: https://beanpod.ca/
Pssssst. Did you know Spineback Trail is only 25 minutes away?
Sugar Shack (Revelstoke, BC)
If you find yourself in Revelstoke, make sure to swing by The Sugar Shack. One bite of their famous homemade cookie and vanilla soft serve ice cream sandwich, and you’ll understand why it’s a must-stop spot. Whether you’re fuelling up for an adventure or winding down after a hiking day, The Sugar Shack serves up the perfect mix of comfort and indulgence the mountains.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 301 MacKenzie Ave, Revelstoke, BC
Website: revelstokesugarshack.com
D Dutchmen Dairy (Sicamous, BC)
For over 40 years, the Dewitt family has been making delicious dairy products in beautiful British Columbia. If you’re passing through Salmon Arm, you won’t regret stopping at D Dutchmen Dairy. They have over 60 flavours of homemade ice cream and other dairy products like cheese and milk. Don’t forget to say thank-moo to the cows in the barn!
Open: Year-round
Address: 1321 Maier Rd, Sicamous, British Columbia
Website: https://dutchmendairy.ca/
Scoopz Ice Cream Parlour (Kamloops, BC)
Perched in downtown Kamloops across from Riverside Park in the Sandman Hotel, Scoopz Ice Cream Parlour has been delighting locals since 1999. They dish out a whopping 48 flavours—from timeless classics to inventive seasonal twists—during the spring & summer season.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 265 Lorne Street, Kamloops, BC
Website: Facebook
Chilcotin Chills (100 Mile House, BC)
If you’re passing through 100 Mile, Chilcotin Chills is absolutely worth a stop. They serve up handcrafted, New Zealand-style ice cream—blended fresh with real fruit and no artificial junk. I had the blueberry flavour and loved it—creamy and refreshing. Whatever flavour you choose, you’re in for a seriously delicious treat on any Cariboo road trip.
Open: Seasonally (check website & social media for current hours)
Address: Various locations
Website: https://chilcotinchills.com/
Frozen Paddle (Prince George, BC)
Frozen Paddle is making homemade ice cream in Prince George and Kamloops, with an eye toward fostering community. They’ve become a go-to spot for artisanal ice cream lovers. If you’re travelling through British Columbia, it’s worth tasting this craft goodness.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 4038 Cowart Rd, Prince George, British Columbia
Website: https://frozenpaddle.com/
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Alice + Brohm Ice Cream Co. (Squamish, BC)
Alice + Brohm Ice Cream Co. is known for exceptional ice cream, inspired by real fruit ice cream stands in New Zealand. A treat that’s both delicious and visually stunning, they blend locally sourced fruits into their ice cream for a fresh and flavourful experience. If you’re in Squamish, stop by Alice + Brohm for ice cream that stands out. Delicious!
Open: Year-round
Address: 38129 2 Ave, Squamish, British Columbia
Website: https://www.aliceandbrohm.com/
Ernest Ice Cream (Vancouver, BC)
Heading to the West Coast? Ernest Ice Cream is a Vancouver favourite for artisanal, locally sourced ice cream. With a mix of classic and original flavours, Ernest’s creates rich and creamy ice cream with a commitment to sustainability. I have to say, I was very impressed by the vegan flavours — vegan peaches and cream was incredible! Earnest could be the best ice cream in Vancouver, you think?
Open: Year-round
Address: 127 W 1st St, North Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: https://earnesticecream.com/
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Rain or Shine Homemade Ice Cream (Vancouver, BC)
Rain or Shine Ice Cream is another top-notch ice cream shop in Vancouver, celebrated for homemade, locally sourced ice cream. They’ve also got a friendly purple unicorn cow inside. If you’re in Vancouver, definitely worth checking out this place. Highly recommend!
Open: Year-round
Address: 3382 Cambie St, Vancouver, British Columbia
Website: https://www.rainorshineicecream.com/
Klondyke Cream & Candy (Dawson City, YT)
Are you planning a trip to Dawson City? Klondyke Ice Cream is the place to be on a hot summer’s day. This charming little spot has a range of ice cream flavours, centrally located in Dawson’s downtown. They’ve got a tasty soft serve chocolate and vanilla twist. Grab a cone and take a stroll along the mighty Yukon River.
Open: Seasonal
Address: 902 Front St, Dawson City, Yukon
Website: https://dawsoncity.ca/listing/klondyke-cream-candy/
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Now it’s your turn! What’s your favourite ice cream in Canada? What’s the best homemade ice cream you’ve ever tasted? Let me know in the comments below. Who knows, your suggestions might make my updated list (after I’ve taste-tested, of course!).
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Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
What a great list! I’ve been to a few of these in the west, but you’ve given me ideas for more 😊🍦 Maggie
Thanks! I hope you get to try some new ice cream this summer!