With May now here, the weather is officially beginning to look better and warm up. April showers have truly brought May flowers, and with all of this gorgeous weather we’re having, why not make the day better by treating yourself to some delicious and refreshing ice cream from some local shops around town? Today we’ll be looking at some of the most popular places to get a sweet treat in Grand Rapids!
Jersey Junction
Starting off in East Grand Rapids is Jersey Junction. This is a classic ice cream shop to stop by and pick up a quick sweet treat on a hot, sunny day. Founded in 1963, Jersey Junction has been open for a long time, with its store and employees loyally serving its customers. The name originated from the original owners believing that the best milk came from “Jersey” cows, and “Junction” meaning a place for friends and families to join together. If you go here, you’re sure to see lots of historical pictures of Grand Rapids, as well as an autographed train model of the Polar Express which was signed by the founder’s daughter, Chris VanAllsburg, who wrote the book! This is the perfect place to come with friends and family if you’re in the Gaslight Village area of Grand Rapids!
Scoopers Ice Cream Shoppe
This delicious and neighborhood-friendly ice cream shop is located in downtown Ada. Whether you’re driving by or taking a stroll, Scoopers is always there to welcome you! With a variety of flavors available, ranging from decadent chocolate to refreshing lemon sorbet, Scoopers is ready to tackle whatever ice cream flavor craving you may have. Not only does Scoopers offer delicious flavors, but they also have great chocolate dips. You can get your ice cream coated in a chocolate hardshell, birthday cake shell, or even a cherry hardshell.
Ada Village General Store
Also located in Ada, the Ada Village General Store is a charming small red building that used to be a schoolhouse! However, after it was closed down it was renovated to be a general store where you can buy hot dogs, ice cream, candy, and even small trinkets! This is also located near the Thornapple and Grand River with the back of the store and patio overlooking the water. This provides a nice view while enjoying a sweet treat! The AVG Store also has a playground next-door, making it the perfect place for kids to hang out. During the warmer months, live concerts and events are also commonly held on the stage which is a short walk from the ice cream store. Overall, this is a conveniently located store in the heart of Ada, making it the perfect place to stop by!
Frosty Boy
Located on Plainfield, Frosty Boy is a quick stop if you’re driving by. Originally, the store closed down for a few years, but luckily, the shop was able to recently re-open its door to welcome in more customers. Frost Boy is committed to serving Michigan-made ice cream to all of their customers, truly providing a taste of what the Pure Michigan state can offer. The options are endless, with countless flavors available, even options for those who are gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan!
Cindy’s Donuts and Ice Cream
With Cindy’s tucked away on a corner off of 28th Street, this shop is on quite a busy stretch of road. And busy is a perfect way to title how this store is in the morning. Cindy’s Donuts and Ice Cream opens at 5 am every day except Monday, with their closing time at 3 pm (2 pm on Sunday). They not only offer donuts and ice cream, but also hot chocolate, and coffee! Everyday donuts are made fresh and offer and a wide variety of flavors, leaving you with nothing else to desire. Their flavors of donuts range from your classic glazed to cherry-filled turnovers. Their ice cream doesn’t disappoint either, with all of it being Hudsonville ice cream, making it the perfect cold treat to pair with a donut or coffee!
With those five classic ice cream shops to get you started on your exploration of Grand Rapids, be sure to check them out! But don’t be afraid to try out any other small local shops. If you do, feel free to leave some recommendations in the comments!
