MARYLAND - From the shores of Deep Creek Lake to the charming towns of the Eastern Shore, Maryland boasts a delightful and diverse ice cream scene. The Old Line State is home to historic parlors, family-run farm creameries, and beloved local shops serving up everything from classic homemade scoops to inventive frozen treats.
Maryland's Sweetest Scoops: A Guide to the State's Best Ice Cream Shops
When the weather is warm, there's no better way to enjoy the state's local flavor. Here is a guide to some of the best and most beloved ice cream shops in Maryland.
1. Hoffman's Homemade Ice Cream (Westminster, MD)
- The Scoop: A quaint and historic institution, Hoffman's Homemade Ice Cream has been serving the Westminster community since 1947. This family-run parlor is renowned for its premium, house-made ice cream, offering more than 50 rotating flavors.
- The Vibe: A clean, straightforward, and pleasant spot to hang out with friends and family. While they also offer deli fare, the main event is the ice cream. You can get anything from a simple cone to a pint, a half-gallon, or even a custom ice cream cake. It's a true local favorite.
- Location: 934 Washington Rd, Westminster, MD 21157
2. South Mountain Creamery (Middletown, MD)
- The Scoop: For an actual farm-to-cone experience, South Mountain Creamery is a must-visit. This family-owned farm and creamery makes its ice cream using fresh milk from their own pasture-raised cows.
- The Vibe: It's more than just an ice cream shop - it's a destination. Visitors can enjoy their frozen treats while also learning about sustainable agriculture. The creamery also offers a variety of fresh dairy products, including milk, eggs, cheese, butter, and yogurt.
- Location: 8305 Bolivar Rd, Middletown, MD 21769
3. Rocky Point Creamery (Tuscarora, MD)
- The Scoop: Another fantastic family-run farm creamery, Rocky Point Creamery serves delicious homemade ice cream with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. They offer hard-packed ice cream, soft serve, and creative seasonal sundaes.
- The Vibe: A fun and family-friendly destination located conveniently near the C&O Canal. It features a newly built combined playground behind the store and is pet-friendly (check out their #bringfido hashtag!). Enjoy banana splits, milkshakes, malts, and ice cream floats in a beautiful country setting.
- Location: 4323 Tuscarora Rd, Tuscarora, MD 21790
4. Lakeside Creamery (Oakland, MD)
- The Scoop: Located on the picturesque shores of Deep Creek Lake, Lakeside Creamery is one of the most popular ice cream destinations in Western Maryland. They offer an incredible variety of decadent frozen treats, accompanied by stunning lakefront views.
- The Vibe: A bustling and beloved spot for vacationers and locals alike. Expect a vast selection, with over ninety varieties of homemade ice cream as well as refreshing sherbets.
- Location: 29140 Garrett Hwy, Oakland, MD 21550
5. Scottish Highland Creamery (Oxford, MD)
- The Scoop: A true destination for ice cream connoisseurs on the Eastern Shore, the Scottish Highland Creamery is famous for its exceptionally rich, creamy, and flavorful ice cream. Founder Victor Barlow, who previously worked at an Italian ice cream parlor, has developed over 600 different flavors.
- The Vibe: A charming shop in the beautiful town of Oxford. You'll be hard-pressed not to find a new favorite among their unique offerings, from Double Belgian Chocolate to Mascarpone and Fresh Crushed Strawberry. Their Chocolate Chunk Coffee is a best-seller.
- Location: 314 Tilghman St, Oxford, MD 21654
6. Justine's Ice Cream Parlour (St. Michaels, MD)
- The Scoop: In the heart of the picturesque town of St. Michaels, Justine's is a classic, old-fashioned ice cream parlor celebrating over 25 years in business. Their extensive menu features inventive flavors, creative shakes, and decadent sundaes.
- The Vibe: A quintessential summer town experience. Grab a cone and enjoy it while strolling through one of America's most beautiful small towns. They are typically open late on weekends during the summer season.
- Location: 106 N Talbot St, St. Michaels, MD 21663
7. Nutter's Ice Cream (Sharpsburg, MD)
- The Scoop: A long-running parlor with over 100 years of history, Nutter's Ice Cream is a beloved tradition in Sharpsburg, located in central Maryland near the Antietam National Battlefield.
- The Vibe: A nostalgic and classic spot serving 32 flavors of ice cream, soft serve, and other indulgent treats. It's a perfect stop for a taste of history and a delicious scoop.
- Location: 100 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782
Maryland's ice cream scene is rich with local flavor, history, and craftsmanship. From the farm-fresh scoops at South Mountain and Rocky Point Creameries to the coastal charm of Justine's and the Scottish Highland Creamery, there is an incredible variety of frozen delights to discover. These beloved parlors offer the perfect way to cool down and enjoy a sweet taste of the Old Line State.