Did you know the Connecticut Office of Tourism keeps track of where to find the best ice cream in Connecticut? Their Sundae Drives Ice Cream Trail is perfect for ice cream lovers with a hard to satisfy sweet tooth. You'll have to head to Eastern Connecticut for this delectable adventure, but it's definitely worth the drive. See the sweet spots for yourself:
This ice cream trails totals 113 miles and features nine must try destinations. With spots in the Quiet Corner and along the shoreline, these are a perfect addition to any day trip.
1. The Farmer's Cow Calfe
86 Storrs Road, Mansfield, CT 06250
This hidden gem could be your new favorite spot. Over 60 flavors are waiting for you, and none of them include any artificial flavoring. The Farmer's Cow Calfe & Creamery is what dreams are made of. Click here for the website of The Farmer's Cow Calfe & Creamery.
2. We-Li-Kit
728 Hampton Road, Pomfret Center, CT 06230
An Editor's Choice from Yankee Magazine, this quaint shop has been serving the Connecticut community for over 25 years. You'll find 26 flavors here - from chipmunk tracks to orange pineapple - all made with 16 percent butterfat. That's why it tastes so good! Click here for the website of We-Li-Kit.
3. Ekonk Hill Turkey Farm
227 Ekonk Hill Road, Moosup, CT 06354
Praised by Connecticut Magazine, this locale has been a favorite since opening in 2006. Family owned and operated, the ice cream shop serves 25 great flavor choices - from classics like vanilla and chocolate to dreamy coconut and cookie dough. Click here for the Ekonk Hill Turkey Farm.
4. Hank's Dairy Bar
1006 Norwich Road, Plainfield, CT 06374
According to Connecticut Magazine, this is the best dairy bar in the state. It features a retro feel that pairs well with its soft serve ice cream and classic sundaes. This family owned dive is a longstanding fan favorite. Try such delightful goodies as the classic banana split and the s'more sundae. Click here for the website of Hank's Dairy Bar.
5. Buttonwood Farm
473 Shetucket Turnpike, Griswold, CT 06351
At this spot you can actually say hello to the cows who helped make this delicious ice cream possible. Snag a cup of one of their 40 flavors of ice cream and see the jaw dropping sunflower field. Roadfood.com considers this locale one of the best in the U.S. Click here for the website of Buttonwood Farm.
6. Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream
2 West Main Street, Mystic, CT 06355
Who can say no to ice cream with a view? VisitingNewEngland.com says Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream serves "wicked good ice cream," complete with 30 flavors. Every batch is hand mixed, and you can choose from such flavors as pure vanilla, lemon chocolate kiss, and black raspberry. Click here for the website of Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream.
7. Michael's Dairy
629 Montuak Avenue, New London, CT 06320
These folks love ice cream so much they'll sell it to you in a pail. Managed by Mitchell College students, there are 35 flavors to choose from at this old fashioned dairy bar. They even host sock hops. Click here for the website of Michael's Dairy.
8. A.C. Petersen Farms
113 Shore Road, Old Lyme, CT 06371
You'll find 40 flavors of ice cream, sherbet and sorbet at the charming A.C. Petersen Farms. This company started 100 years ago and is now an NBC Connecticut Golden Local. You're guaranteed to enjoy the ice cream here. Click here for the website of A.C. Petersen Farms.
9. Salem Valley Farms Ice Cream
20 Darling Road, Salem, CT 06420
This hidden gem could be your new favorite spot. Over 60 flavor options are waiting for you, and none of them include any artificial flavoring. Salem Valley Farms flavor choice changes daily, but you may have such delicious options as blueberry cheesecake, cherry vanilla, and banana walnut. Click here for the website of Salem Valley Farms.
No need to accomplish this ice cream trail in a single day. Spread this adventure out for a series of rewarding day trips. Who do you think has the best ice cream in Connecticut? Let us know in the comments! For another way to escape the heat, visit one of these awesome swimming holes.
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