Lickety-split: The Best Ice-Cream Spots in Mystic Country

Located right on Main Street in downtown Niantic, Gumdrops & Lollipops is packed full of goodies for all to enjoy. Bursting with old fashioned seaside charm, Gumdrops & Lollipops offers a wide range of delectable desserts including gourmet chocolates, indulgent homemade fudge, and of course lots of ice cream flavors! Pick from a variety of unique flavors including mocha chip mooring, coconut coast, rocky neck rum raisin, sandy toe cookie dough, and more. Enjoy your treats on the back patio overlooking Niantic Bay, or take them to go while you stroll along the boardwalk.

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The Ice Box has been known and loved for over 40 years in Connecticut. Husband and wife team Jenn & Matt Nemeth are proud to serve their guests a scoop with a smile! This local gem serves up small batch hard ice cream made with local ingredients as well as ice cream cakes, soft serve options, and more. For the flavor enthusiast, The Ice Box has some interesting specials available including asparagus, orange pineapple, and blue raspberry cheesecake to name a few. No matter what you order, we can guarantee you’ll leave with a smile on your face. Be sure to tag them on social media using #NoScoopTillBrooklyn!

Family owned and operated in the small fishing community of Noank since 1907, Carsons Store has transformed over the years from a general store to a beloved restaurant frequented by locals and tourists alike. Apart from their breakfast and lunch offerings, Carson’s is proud to serve Bucks Ice Cream to their customers. Decide how many scoops you would like and choose your favorite flavor listed on the board behind the counter. In the mood to level up? Try out one of their scrumptious sundaes with plenty of toppings to choose from!

Hank’s Dairy Bar has become a staple in northeastern Connecticut. Family owned and operated since 1957, this iconic roadside business is located on four acres and  offers a blast from the past experience for visitors. Known for their famous sign, fried food options, and soft serve, Hank’s is the perfect place to bring the whole family for a tasty lunch, dinner, or snack! When your sweet tooth starts calling for soft serve, sundaes, ice cream sandwiches, or a milkshake, Hank’s Dairy Bar has what you’re craving.

Take a break from strolling picturesque downtown Mystic and treat yourself to something sweet. Located on the bascule bridge overlooking the Mystic River, Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream has made the business of making ice cream their passion since the early 1800s. Take in the expansive flavor menu which offers varieties of the classics, unique drawbridge original flavors, non dairy options, and more. With “We make the best!” included on their logo, how could you not try some out for yourself?!

Looking for a fun family outing? Take a trip to Buttonwood Farm! This fully operational dairy farm offers guests delicious handmade ice cream with over 50 tasty flavors to choose from. Waffle cones are made fresh daily as well as their whipped cream. While you’re there, take a stroll through their stunning sunflower fields for the full experience. We can guarantee you’ll be back again!

Michael’s Dairy has a long standing history in New London. Previously known as Mitchell Dairy, they provided milk to almost all of New London. After being purchased by Mitchell College in 2006, Michael’s Dairy continues to serve the New London community with delicious ice cream during the summer months. With 32 rotating flavors and indulgent sundae options, you can’t go wrong with whatever you choose!