9 Best Vermont Ice Cream Spots Beyond Ben and Jerry’s 2025
If you’ve ever taken a leisurely drive through the scenic byways of Vermont, chances are you’ve either visited or at least seen signs for the iconic Ben and Jerry’s ice cream factory.
Recently, this beloved attraction landed itself on USA Today’s list of the “Top 100 Biggest Tourist Traps Worldwide.” But is it really deserving of the term “tourist trap?”
I’ll also share a list of the best Vermont ice cream spots if you want to try a smaller, less crowded venue that also offers unique and delicious flavors.
Let’s dig in!
The Sweet Truth About Ben & Jerry’s
The only Ben & Jerry’s factory site open to the public is located in Waterbury, Vermont. The brand, founded by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield in 1978, is known for its quirky flavors, socially responsible ethos, and of course, its fun-filled factory tours.
I happen to live fifteen minutes from the Ben and Jerry’s in Waterbury. I also have two kids that LOVE ice cream. So, for us, it’s not just a place for out-of-staters to get their ice cream fix; we too enjoy visiting a few times a year, usually and especially in the off-season.
The 30-minute factory tour they offer is a really fun experience and it’s one the most fun things to do in Waterbury, VT for families! It’s not uncommon to find yourself immersed in a swirling aroma of waffle cones as you learn how chunks and swirls get lovingly mixed into their famous pints.
However, I am not going to lie, the spot can get crowded during the summer months, giving rise to long lines and a bustling atmosphere that’s not everyone’s cup of tea—or a scoop of ice cream, if you will.
So, is it a tourist trap? That’s debatable. I mean, you get to eat ice cream here, it’s not a hoax! What’s certain is that it’s a must-visit, at least once, for anyone traveling through Vermont who loves ice cream. Plus, where else can you pay your respects to discontinued flavors in the ‘Flavor Graveyard‘?
9 Best Vermont Ice Cream Spots Beyond Ben and Jerry’s
So, for those of you who’d like to savor Vermont’s dairy delights without the huge crowds, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a rundown of some other fabulous spots to get your ice cream fix!
1. Canteen Creamee
Located in Waitsfield, Canteen Creamee offers a refreshing twist on soft-serve by incorporating local ingredients. Don’t miss out on their maple cremeees, a local specialty.
It’s the perfect spot for families and those looking for an Instagram-worthy treat. We love their lunch and dinner options as well, with Dirty Tots being one of our family’s favorites!
Canteen Creamee is open year-round.
PRO TIP: Lines and the wait can be very long here too. Leave yourself at least 45 minutes to wait on a busy day if you have ordered food. Ice cream doesn’t take as long though. Maybe ice cream for dinner?
2. Palmer Lane Maple
Located in Jericho, Palmer Lane Maple is a must-visit for maple enthusiasts. While they offer a variety of maple products, their maple creemees are what steal the show.
To be honest, the flavor of their maple creemees is one of my favorites I have tasted in Vermont. The consistency is pure perfection on a hot summer day.
Palmer Lane Maple is open year-round.
PRO TIP: You can get your creemee stacked instead of twisted. This is fun because if you want two flavors that don’t mix well such as coffee and peach (two of my favorites), your problem is solved!
3. The Village Scoop
The Village Scoop is located in Colchester. It is a small but mighty ice cream joint! They offer both classic and unconventional flavors, soft serve and hard ice cream, often playing around with seasonal ingredients.
The atmosphere is charmingly quaint, making you feel like a local as soon as you walk in. My kids strongly approve of the generous portions they are served! Shakes and malts are other favorites of ours.
The Village Scoop is only open in the summer and has a convenient drive-up window.
4. White Cottage Snack Bar
White Cottage Snack Bar is in Woodstock, a quintessential stop on your Vermont road trip! Enjoy a hearty meal and top it off with a scoop or sundae. They serve Gifford’s ice cream here and the flavors are so plentiful you may have a tough time making a decision!
The 1950s-inspired setting makes for a nostalgic ice cream experience that takes you back in time! You’ll enjoy eating outside at the picnic tables in the beautiful Vermont setting.
White Cottage is open from the first Friday in May to Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
PRO TIP: They are located right next to the Ottauquechee River so bring your bathing suits and towels!
5. Sisters of Anarchy
Operated from their family farm in Shelburne, Sisters of Anarchy uses berries grown right on their farm to make their ice cream! Flavors such as Respect Your Elders (elderberry) and Chaste Anne (yellow raspberry) are some of my favorites.
This place is a real treat and it’s not to be missed. With a focus on farm-to-cone freshness, each scoop offers a burst of authentic flavor that’s as rebellious as its name suggests.
PRO TIP: They even have online ice cream subscriptions and deliver their ice cream nationwide! It sets Sisters of Anarchy apart for sure so take advantage of this!
6. Vermont Cookie Love
Vermont Cookie Love is in North Ferrisburgh and they offer a delightful twist to the ice cream experience with their famous cookie dough creations! I am a fan of their coffee ice cream, it’s one of the best I have had.
Don’t just stop at their mouth-watering cookies; definitely try their ice cream cookie sandwiches or dough-filled scoops. Is your mouth watering yet? Made with love and local ingredients, this charming spot provides a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the family the moment you step in.
7. Lu•lu Ice Cream
In Vergennes, Vermont you’ll find Lu•lu Ice Cream, an absolute haven for artisanal ice cream lovers. They have unique flavors such as Black Mascara Tears; vanilla bean ice cream with a bourbon-salted caramel ripple and dark chocolate toffee pieces, and Basil; ice cream steeped with freshly picked VT basil. The Basil flavor is rated “the best ice cream in Vermont”.
Lulu’s is one of the cutest ice creams I have been to and the owner is super friendly. Every scoop is a work of art, crafted with local, natural ingredients. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that’s as visually pleasing as it is delicious. Lulu’s serves up a mean maple creemee too!
PRO TIP: Bring your furry friend along because they even serve dog-friendly ice cream here for a treat!
8. Chill Vermont Gelato
Located in the heart of Montpelier, Chill Vermont Gelato crafts incredibly delicious and authentic Italian-style gelato with a Vermont flair. This also is a place I frequent with my kids with great joy!
Expect to find flavors featuring seasonal fruits, local herbs, and even Vermont-distilled spirits. A modern twist on an old classic.
ALERT: The devastating flooding in Vermont in July 2023 caused most downtown businesses in Montpelier to close for many months. While some businesses have reopened, Chill is still under repairs. Check their Instagram for updates and reopening.
9. Wilcox Ice Cream Stand
Established in 1928, Wilcox’s Premium Ice Cream in Manchester is one of Vermont’s oldest ice cream makers. Using time-honored techniques and sourcing local dairy, they craft a range of classic and super yummy flavors.
Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional vanilla or something more adventurous like Maple Walnut, Wilcox’s delivers a premium ice cream experience. They also offer seasonal specials, ensuring there’s always something new to try.
