Warm weather and ice cream sit near the top of every Michigander’s list of favorite things. As springtime blooms in full force, local sweet shops throughout the Great Lakes State have begun to open their doors for the season. When you’re ready to enjoy some of the most mouthwatering soft serve ice cream imaginable, look no further than these nine beloved locales in Michigan.

1. Dairy Twist Cafe (2660 Benstein Rd, Walled Lake)

This beloved spot is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and it’s easy to see why. You might have to wait a few minutes for your order, but this simply means that each ice cream treat is prepared perfectly to satisfy each guest! Whether you opt for a flurry or a heaping soft serve cone, you’re sure to be delighted with your selection at Dairy Twist.

2. Tasty Treat (120 N Main St, Lake City)

If you’re in the mood for a massive portion, you’ve come to the right place. For 70 years, Tasty Treat has been drawing in hungry patrons with its friendly service, no-frills atmosphere, and mouthwatering menu. Opt for a flavor burst soft serve cone, keep it basic with vanilla, or try a delicious twist. No matter what you select, you’ll certainly be back for seconds.

3. Jim’s Dari Kreme (1201 Washington Ave, Escanaba)

This Escanaba favorite is the place to be when your sweet tooth starts acting up. The service here is second to none, and you’ll find all sorts of delicious flavors that are sure to satisfy your every craving. There’s an undeniably friendly vibe as soon as you step inside, and the mouthwatering treats at Jim’s are just the icing on the cake - or the sprinkles on the ice cream, if you will!

4. Scoop’s Soft Serve (8750 Lewis Ave, Temperance)

Whether you drive through or sit down to enjoy your ice cream with loved ones, you’re in for a fantastic experience at Scoop’s. With affordable pricing, insanely tasty flavors, and an awesome menu of non-sweet selections, you might as well make an entire outing of your visit to this fun spot. You’ll want to have cash on hand when you arrive, as Scoop’s doesn’t accept credit or debit cards.

5. Captain Sundae (365 Douglas Ave, Holland)

This West Michigan classic has several locations throughout the area, but its original spot sits on Douglas Avenue. Generations of beachgoers have stopped at Captain Sundae for a sweet treat after a long day of sunbathing, and you’ll quickly understand why this locale has retained its popularity. From flavor twist options to specialty soft serve sundaes, there’s truly something here for everyone.

6. Twisters Ice Cream (8688 Water St, Montague)

Step up to the counter at this Montague fixture when you’re in the mood to indulge your sweetest cravings. Twisters is a cash-only ice cream shop, so be sure you’ve got a few bills on hand when you arrive. The soft serve is delightfully creamy, the service is friendly, and the setting is utterly charming - is there anything not to love?

7. Dairy Kream (145 River St, Manistique)

Manistique is known as the home of Kitch-iti-Kipi, but it also houses a man-made delight: Dairy Kream ice cream shop! When you stop in for a treat at this local favorite, you’ll enjoy a wide selection of treats in a laid-back atmosphere. Keep it simple with a soft serve cone or indulge in a banana split, which seems to retain its status as a customer favorite. Talk about delicious!

8. Rita’s Twisty Freeze (3780 W Huron Rd, Standish)

This colorful spot in Standish might just be the happiest ice cream shop you’ve ever visited. Start off with a hearty burger or hot dog, then top it all off with one of Rita’s mouthwatering and creamy frozen creations. On a warm summer or spring evening, nothing hits the spot quite like a generous serving of ice cream, and Rita’s certainly won’t disappoint.

9. Frosty Boy Grand Rapids (1757 Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids)

This local favorite was closed for a decade, but its triumphant return has left Grand Rapids residents smiling from ear to ear. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to be amazed by the flavorful creations Frosty Boy puts forth. From lemon soft serve to sprinkle-dipped vanilla cones, there’s truly something on the menu to keep everyone happy.

Did we leave your favorite local soft serve spot off our list? It would be impossible to include each and every fantastic shop, but we would love to hear your suggestions in the comment section below!