Who says ice cream is only for summer? For many Mainers, the craving for a scoop of mint chocolate chip or rocky road doesn’t stop when the temperature drops. Despite the chill of winter, several ice cream shops across the state are keeping their doors open to satisfy those cold-weather cravings.
Fielder’s Choice Ice Cream
One of the most notable names offering winter ice cream is Fielder’s Choice, which made waves in 2021 when it announced it would remain open year-round. With six locations throughout Maine — in Manchester, Brunswick, Sabattus, Auburn, Bangor, and Old Orchard Beach — the Maine-based chain is a go-to spot for ice cream lovers, even in the off-season.
Each location has varying hours, so visitors are advised to check online for specific details. For example, the Brunswick location is open daily from noon to 8 p.m., though it will be closed from December 22 to January 22. Meanwhile, the Auburn location operates daily from noon to 8 p.m. with closures only on December 24 and 25.
The Ice Cream Shoppe
The Ice Cream Shoppe, known for its multiple locations, keeps its Oakland shop open through the winter months. Although the front window is closed, customers can still enjoy the shop’s ice cream offerings via the drive-through or dine-in. Locations in Skowhegan, Randolph, and Farmington will reopen next season.
Mount Desert Island Ice Cream
Fans of Mount Desert Island Ice Cream can still find a taste of their artisanal treats in Portland. While the Bar Harbor location is closed for the season, the Portland shop remains open through December. However, the business will take a brief hiatus in January and February before returning for the new year.
Le’Cha Cafe
New to Portland in 2023, Le’Cha Cafe combines bubble tea and ice cream, offering a colorful variety of frozen treats year-round. Known for its soft serve and Gifford’s hard-serve ice cream, the cafe adds a fun twist to the winter dessert scene, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors alike.
The Saco Scoop
In Saco, The Saco Scoop remains a reliable winter ice cream destination, serving over 30 flavors, including unique options like cake butter, bubblegum, and Hakuna Matata — a chocolate ice cream with caramel swirl and chocolate chips. For those who can’t pick just one, the shop also offers an ice cream flight to sample a variety of flavors.
Friendly’s
Though there’s only one Friendly’s location remaining in Maine, it continues to offer ice cream year-round. Whether it’s the hot summer months or the coldest days of winter, Friendly’s remains a consistent choice for those in search of a sweet treat.
Dairy Queen
Maine’s 22 Dairy Queen locations vary in their winter hours, with some closing for the season. For those craving a Blizzard or other treats, it’s best to consult the Dairy Queen website for specific hours. However, some locations, including those on Maine Street in Westbrook, Bangor Street in Augusta, and York Street in Kennebunk, remain open throughout the winter.
Conclusion
Despite the frigid temperatures, there’s no need to skip dessert in the winter. Whether you’re in the mood for a soft serve, a scoop of your favorite flavor, or something more unique, Maine’s ice cream shops have you covered. So bundle up and head out to one of these local spots for a sweet treat this season.
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