With warmer temperatures gracing the 10-day forecast, the allure of cold, creamy delights like ice cream beckons. Nestled in and around the Greater Gardner area, several charming ice cream parlors and dairy farms offer locally sourced homemade treats.
These local establishments not only provide a delectable taste of Central Massachusetts agriculture but also offer savory New England classics for those seeking a savory delight alongside their frozen confections.
Here are seven ice cream destinations where you can support local artisans and farmers throughout the spring and summer months.
Greater Gardner Favorites
1. Kay’s Dairy Bar
Located at 196 State Road West in Westminster, Kay’s Dairy Bar stands as a year-round haven for ice cream enthusiasts. Beyond its tantalizing ice cream offerings, Kay’s menu boasts a diverse array of New England comfort foods, from Quebec-styled fries to sumptuous lobster rolls and fried seafood platters. Operating hours are Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
2. Lickity Splitz
Nestled at 231 Main St. in Winchendon, Lickity Splitz beckons with its year-round availability of ice cream and comfort fare. From breakfast burritos to steak and cheese sandwiches, this Winchendon gem offers dishes for every meal. Open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
3. Murdock Farm & Dairy Bar
Celebrating its 60th ice cream-making anniversary, Murdock Farm & Dairy Bar at 62 Elmwood Road in Winchendon promises not only freshly churned ice cream but also the opportunity to mingle with farm animals. Opening for the season on Saturday, May 4, the dairy bar welcomes visitors seven days a week from 1 to 9 p.m.
4. Izzie’s Ice Cream
Formerly Bunny’s Dairy Bar and now under new ownership, Izzie’s Ice Cream at 227 Gardner Road in East Templeton offers a fresh take on homemade treats. Opening its doors for the second season on Sunday, May 12, Izzie’s Ice Cream invites patrons to enjoy its offerings seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
5. Cherry Hill Ice Cream
Renowned for its homemade and occasionally quirky flavors, Cherry Hill Ice Cream beckons patrons to its 26th season at 826 Leominster Road in Lunenburg. A mere 25-minute drive from Gardner, its second location in Townsend offers another destination for ice cream aficionados, just 30 to 40 minutes away from Greater Gardner.
6. Rota Spring Farm
Located at 117 Chace Hill Road in Sterling, Rota Spring Farm delights visitors with its unique ice cream flavors and monthly specials. Featuring a petting zoo and famed meatball subs alongside its creamy offerings, Rota Spring Farm is open daily from 11:30 a.m. until late evening, from March to October.
Whether you’re a local seeking a sweet escape or a traveler eager to explore new flavors, these ice cream havens promise a delightful experience for all.
