The cherry-on-top to a perfect day is grabbing one, two (or many more) scoops of ice cream in a variety of flavors. And the best way to do so? On a warm summer day, of course! From a classic hot fudge sundae to a strawberry shake and countless options in between, you are in for a treat at these 7 classic ice cream parlors in Wisconsin. So, sit down, relax and have a waffle cone in hand as you spend quality time with your family.
Looking for a few new spots to tempt your taste buds? Enjoy an ice-cold treat (Quick! Before it melts!) at these local favorites.
Gus's Drive-In – East Troy
We all scream for ice cream. And the best way to get the inside scoop is at Gus’s Drive-In. This sweet custard will have you wanting more. Sip on a shake or malt as you take in the classic 50’s style rock & roll. As you cruise through this unique drive-in, you can sit next to the real-life statue of Elvis.
You can’t have a 50’s styled theme without showcasing custom cars. Check out “Cruise Night” every Saturday, and you can even display your own car.
The Windmill Ice Cream Shoppe – Tomahawk
The Windmill Ice Cream Shoppe will bring your back to your childhood with flavors like bubble gum, cotton candy, and superman. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, try the caramel apple crisp or barking pretzel — you are sure to find the flavor you like with over 25 to choose from! And the best part? Share a cone and a memory with friends as you sit back at this colorful stand right on Lake Nokomis, often a stopping point for boaters or bicyclists on the Bearskin-Hiawatha State Trail.
J. Lauber’s Ice Cream Parlor – East Troy
J Lauber’s Ice Cream Parlor will make you feel like you’re traveling back in time with its deluxe sundaes and fruity homemade phosphate sodas. And you’re in for a treat. It’s delicious and will leave you with a smile on your face (and maybe some ice cream too). Once you pick out your sweet treat, ride one of the restored trolleys or check out the railroad museum that’s just across the tracks — this is a fantastic place to catch up on a warm summer day.
Adrian's Frozen Custard – Burlington
Here’s the inside scoop — Adrian’s Frozen Custard has been serving award winning frozen custard since 1974. Sweet cream and pure natural flavors make this a popular spot in downtown Burlington. You can try something different each time as there’s a new flavor every day. And if you bring all of your friends, you can share the Adrian Special largest sundae — the ultimate combination of sweet and salty with classic vanilla frozen custard and your favorite sundae topping with salted roasted pecans, real whipped cream and a cherry on top (of course).
During or after your treat, take a relaxing stroll through the nearby scenic Echo Veterans Memorial Park.
Grab a Cone – Montfort
Indulge in luscious flavors and sit outside with family and a spoonful of ice cream in hand. On a sunny summer day, you can even sit under the bright blue umbrellas and take a family photo by the large ice cream cone in front.
This shop features award winning Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream, a premium brand made in Madison since 1962. Try some bakery items with a range of bread and cookies made fresh.
While you’re stopped, cross the road to the famous Rural Route 1 Popcorn store for souvenirs and delicious locally grown popcorn.
Cathy’s Ice Cream & Candy Shoppe – St. Germain
Just when you thought an ice cream shop couldn’t get better! It can with a wide selection of candy inside. Satisfy your sweet tooth and fill up on all of the goodies. You can even get a combination of both with an ice cream sandwich. This place is every kid’s dream (and an adult’s dream too)!
This place is often the stop after go karting, bumper boating or horseback riding at Elmer’s Fun Park.
Wilson’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor – Door County
Wilson’s Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor was established in 1906, so they know what they’re doing (and experts in the ice cream field). Taste a specialty home-brewed draft root beer float as you take in the view of door county.
Start with the best part first, dessert. Choose from a variety of sundaes including eagle harbor perfection, cherry berry delight, the classic banana split and more. There’s also plenty of events and fun throughout the summer at this hopping place.
Browse our directory for more top-notch Wisconsin eats!
