Local Favorites: Ice Cream Shops Worth Visiting

Written for SaranacLake.com by Bayle Reichert.

What an honor it is to have the opportunity to write about one of the most beloved sweet treats in the Adirondacks: ice cream! The best part about going out for your favorite summer snack in the mountains is that each location offers a unique experience unlike any of the others. That’s why I’m going to take you on a journey through some of the absolute must-visit brain freeze destinations near Saranac Lake, NY. Please note that these are listed in no particular order. Pick your favorite once you’ve visited them all!

Mountain Mist

About a week ago, I was supposed to go to a backyard party with a few friends. I was so excited to have a hot dog, sit outside in the sun, and laugh with good people! The day arrived and, wouldn’t you know it, it was thunder-storming.

The friend hosting the party suggested that we go to Mountain Mist instead, since it is a family-friendly location with a covered deck overlooking Lake Flower. Not only did I get to spend time with amazing people, but I was also able to enjoy a hot dog, fries, and a soft-serve ice cream with rainbow sprinkles!

The location offers a prime view of the lake, and you can even boat right up to it and tie off at the dock to grab your ice cream.

Stewart’s

Stewart’s is a place where you can never go wrong! With original flavors from their Limited Edition menu, there’s always something new to try. One recent favorite of mine was the Chocolate Caramel Tornado, it was absolutely to die for.

One of my favorite afternoon treats is an iced coffee with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Don’t worry, I only indulge in that on special occasions or I might be up all night! Another one of my favorite times to visit Stewart’s for ice cream is after the Waterhole’s Party on the Patio shows on Thursday nights. When the music ends, I make one last stop before heading home to grab a late night snack.

Whether you’re craving a traditional cone, trying a limited edition flavor, or looking for the perfect post concert treat, Stewart’s never disappoints.

Donnelly’s

While driving through the mountains on your way to Saranac Lake, NY, you'll be greeted by a beautiful vista on one side of the road and an adorable ice cream stand on the other. Donnelly’s has brought joy to thousands of people every summer for generations.

Once you step up to the window, you'll find that there is only one "flavor of the day" soft serve, typically swirled with vanilla and hand pumped from the original vintage ice cream machine. My personal favorite is strawberry!

Don’t let the single flavor option fool you! The soft serve is smooth, creamy, and downright magical. There’s something nostalgic about knowing that everyone in line is there for the same flavor.

Just be sure to bring cash, as Donnelly’s is cash only! Once you walk away from the stand with your cone in hand, try not to drop it in awe while taking in the breathtaking views of the rolling mountains and open fields. It’s the perfect way to end a weekend filled with Adirondack adventure.

The Pine Cone

The Pine Cone is perfectly located for a tasty ice cream stop. Conveniently situated right off the main road between Saranac Lake and Lake Placid in Ray Brook, NY, it’s hard to drive by without pulling in!

One of my favorite things about this spot is that your furry friend can enjoy a treat, too. If you purchase your own ice cream, your pup gets a free Pup Cup! As the owner of two dogs, this makes their day every time we head out on an adventure in that direction.

I've always found the hospitality at The Pine Cone to be top-notch. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and there are so many delicious options to choose from. My ideal flavor here is Rocky Mountain Raspberry! I also recommend this location to anyone looking for a gluten-free cone, making it a great stop for anyone with dietary restrictions that still want to enjoy something sweet.

Grab a seat at one of the outdoor picnic tables, enjoy a little people-watching along the road, and if you're staying at the campground across the street, it's an easy walk for an after dinner treat!

Teddy’s Ice Cream

Teddy’s Ice Cream holds a special place in my heart because I live much closer than I probably should! On warm summer afternoons, it’s incredibly tempting to stop by on my way home from work.

Located right in the heart of Bloomingdale, you can’t miss the giant teddy bear sign and the "OPEN" flag waving along the roadside. With the baseball fields just behind this iconic spot, it’s a favorite destination for players, families, and fans looking to celebrate with an after-game treat.

Not in the mood for just ice cream? Teddy’s also serves hot dogs, hamburgers, and other classic snacks, making it a one-stop shop for a quick bite! It’s especially great for families, with a kid-sized picnic table, grassy space to play, and a welcoming staff that keeps people coming back all summer long.

I could go on and on about these prime, must visit ice cream spots near Saranac Lake, NY, but I would much rather have you experience them for yourself! Grab a friend, your family, your pets, or even head out on your own. Ice cream can be enjoyed in a million different ways!

Make it your mission to visit every stand, rank your favorites, and decide which one comes out as your favorite. Then do it again...and again! Every visit is a little different, and that's part of the Adirondack experience.

Most importantly, savor every last bite of summer before the snow starts to fall again. Happy ice cream hunting!