There’s no better time to celebrate summer’s favorite treat—National Ice Cream Day is just around the corner on Sunday, July 20th!
Here in Wisconsin, we take our dairy seriously—and our ice cream even more so. Whether you're in a small town or a big city, you're never far from a scoop of Wisconsin-made goodness.
In honor of this delicious holiday, we’re sharing all things ice cream on the blog this month: local favorites, must-try spots, and a few fun facts to keep your cravings cool.
The month of July was designated as National Ice Cream Month in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan, and the third Sunday of the month as National Ice Cream Day. As the International Diary Association states:
“The average American eats roughly 19 pounds of ice cream each year, or about 4 gallons. As the summer reaches peak temperatures in July, Americans celebrate National Ice Cream Month as a way to cool off and enjoy the nation’s favorite frozen treat with friends and family. Ice cream has historically been a key feature of American communities. According to an IDFA survey, most ice cream companies are family-owned and have been in operation for more than 50 years!”
Wisconsin is known as America's Dairyland and is a significant producer of Ice Cream within America! Wisconsin’s local ice cream makers are scooping up creative and unforgettable flavors that are sure to surprise and delight. Here’s where to start.
The Chocolate Shoppe, 2685 Research Park Drive, Fitchburg, WI, 53711
The Chocolate Shoppe has a long history of creating homemade ice cream, right here in Wisconsin. Having first opened in 1962, and with multiple locations now open around Wisconsin, this is a favorite with locals for all things ice cream!
Babcock Hall Dairy Store, 1605 Linden Dr, Madison, WI, 53703
Babcock Ice Cream is a top choice for ice cream in Wisconsin. As well as serving up 20 flavours of ice cream, such as peaches and cream and butter pecan, the store also offers additional deli foods for all to enjoy. In addition, you can enjoy the complimentary observation experience to learn more about Babcock Dairy behind the scenes. Tours take place daily and are free, although you are required to book in advance. A great way to enjoy Wisconsin-made ice cream!
Dreamy Scoops, 786 N Main St, Oregon, WI 53575
Dreamy Scoops is a locally owned ice cream store with a variety of flavours on offer as well as other sweet treats! Serving Cedar Crest ice cream daily, which has been made in Wisconsin since the 1970s, it is a great spot for local ice cream lovers.
Paradise Ice Cream, 4552 Monona Dr, Madison, WI 53716
Serving up a great variety of sweet treats, Paradise Ice Cream offers something for everyone. From traditional flavours, to specialty ones such as pecan and pine nut, to banana splits.
So, before you reach for the usual Vanilla, Chocolate, or Strawberry, let your taste buds explore something new this National Ice Cream Day.
P.S. The HighLine often hosts resident events based on public holidays. Take a peek at what you could enjoy as a resident on our events page!