Duluth is known for its lake views, outdoor recreation, and growing food scene. After a day of hiking, biking, skiing, or exploring Canal Park, few things are better than stopping for a scoop of ice cream. From handcrafted small-batch flavors to classic soft serve and old-fashioned malt shops, Duluth offers plenty of sweet options for visitors and locals alike.
Whether you're spending the weekend or planning a longer getaway, adding a few ice cream stops to your itinerary is an easy way to experience the city. Guests looking for lodging in Duluth, Minnesota will find many of these shops conveniently located near popular attractions, trails, and waterfront destinations.
Love Creamery
Love Creamery has become one of Duluth’s most popular dessert destinations. Known for small-batch ice cream made with local ingredients, this shop offers a rotating menu with both traditional and creative flavors.
Their homemade waffle cones are also a customer favorite. Love Creamery has locations in Canal Park and Lincoln Park, making it a convenient stop while exploring the city.
Camp Creemee
Camp Creemee brings a playful twist to soft serve ice cream. Inspired by classic roadside ice cream stands, this local favorite serves thick, creamy soft serve with rotating flavors and toppings.
The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly. During summer evenings, lines often stretch outside, but the service moves quickly.
Camp Creemee is also a great stop for travelers exploring nearby hiking and biking trails before heading back to their North Shore, MN lodging for the evening.
Crank and Dasher Ice Cream
Crank and Dasher stands out because it serves rolled ice cream. Instead of scooping ice cream from a tub, the staff pours a liquid base onto a frozen surface and mixes ingredients right in front of customers.
The process is fun to watch, especially for kids. It also allows customers to customize their dessert with different flavors and toppings.
This shop is located near several popular attractions, making it an easy addition to a day focused on shopping, sightseeing, and Duluth dining.
Burnett Dairy
Located right within the RiverWest neighborhood, Burnett Dairy Co-op & Bistro offers more than great cheese and food. Guests can also enjoy hand-dipped ice cream in a convenient location close to their vacation rental.
After spending the day on nearby trails or the slopes at Spirit Mountain, stopping at Burnett Dairy for a scoop is an easy and enjoyable way to end the day. The combination of quality dairy products and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite among RiverWest guests.
Grandma's Ice Cream Parlor
Located in Canal Park, Grandma's Ice Cream Parlor has been a favorite stop for visitors exploring Duluth's waterfront district. The shop offers a large variety of flavors and frozen treats in a convenient location near many of the city's most popular attractions.
Its proximity to the Lakewalk and Canal Park makes it an easy addition to any sightseeing itinerary.
Portland Malt Shoppe
Portland Malt Shoppe is one of Duluth's most beloved seasonal ice cream destinations. This local institution serves generous portions of soft serve, malts, shakes, sundaes, and specialty treats.
Its nostalgic feel and waterfront-adjacent location create a classic summer experience. During warmer months, you'll often find a steady line of customers eager for a cone or shake after spending time outdoors.
Cold Stone Creamery
Cold Stone Creamery offers a familiar favorite for visitors who enjoy customized ice cream creations. Guests can choose from a variety of ice cream flavors, mix-ins, candies, fruits, and toppings that are blended on the shop's signature frozen stone.
The personalized approach allows every customer to create a dessert tailored to their tastes, making it a reliable choice for groups and families with different preferences.
The King of Creams
The King of Creams is a longtime local favorite known for serving classic frozen treats. This seasonal stand keeps things simple with cones, shakes, sundaes, and dipped ice cream bars.
Its casual atmosphere makes it popular with both locals and visitors looking for an affordable dessert stop after a busy day around Duluth.
Bridgeman's
Bridgeman's combines an old-school diner feel with a full ice cream menu. The restaurant has been serving customers for decades and remains a reliable choice for families.
In addition to meals, Bridgeman’s serves banana splits, thick milkshakes, hot fudge sundaes, and ice cream sodas. The retro style adds to the experience and gives visitors a fun place to relax after exploring the city.
Final Thoughts
Duluth offers a wide variety of ice cream shops, from creative small-batch makers to typical family stands. Whether you want rolled ice cream, soft serve, or traditional scoops, there is something for every taste and age group. Adding a few dessert stops to your trip is an easy way to experience more of the local food scene while enjoying everything the city has to offer.
Book Your Vacation Rental in Duluth with RiverWest Duluth
After exploring Duluth’s best ice cream shops, having a comfortable place to relax makes the trip even better. RiverWest Duluth offers modern vacation rentals close to Spirit Mountain, local trails, and many of the city’s top attractions.
Guests can enjoy luxury amenities, spacious layouts, and easy access to outdoor recreation year-round. Whether you are planning a family vacation, weekend getaway, or outdoor adventure trip, RiverWest Duluth provides a convenient home base for your stay.
