Mr. G’s Old Fashioned Home Made & Soft Serve, located at the bustling corner of Baltimore and Lefever Streets in Gettysburg, is a beloved local institution. Across from Unity Park, this popular ice cream shop is a hub for families enjoying a scoop, playing the challenging ring game, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
“People come to Mr. G’s happy … and they leave even happier,” says co-owner Marc McLean. Marc and his wife Megan took over the business two years ago from founder Mike Gladfelter, bringing their own passion for ice cream to the iconic shop.
“Our product is so good, in part because we use 16% milk fat for our ice cream,” explains McLean. “All of our ice cream is homemade. Our three most popular flavors are salted caramel, cookie dough, and black raspberry.”
McLean credits their success to their dedicated staff. “More than 20 employees returned this season from last year, all but one,” he proudly notes.
With prior experience from his mother’s ice cream parlor, Sunset Ice Cream in New Oxford, McLean was well-prepared when Gladfelter approached him about taking over Mr. G’s. Recognizing the prime location and opportunity, McLean eagerly accepted.
The McLeans continually experiment with new flavors, often incorporating suggestions from both employees and customers. This summer’s Peanut Butter Coffee flavor, a customer request, is one example of their creativity. The shop plans to offer around 150 different flavors this year, a record for them.
Their menu features 16 standard flavors and 6 to 8 rotating options. Fresh blueberry parfaits are currently a summer highlight.
Mr. G’s offers comfortable outdoor seating under a towering sycamore tree, creating a welcoming ambience. Customers often linger, enjoying live music, playing games, or visiting the unique gift store behind the shop. The venue’s community spirit and quality products have frequently earned it the title of “Gettysburg’s Greatest Ice Cream.”
McLean extends his gratitude to the community for their continued support. He gives back generously, offering free gift cards to local organizations such as Gettysburg Pediatrics and the Adams County Library, and is open to future charitable and fundraising opportunities.
In addition to the main shop, Mr. G’s products are available at several other locations, including Hollabaugh Bros. Inc., Sweeter than Sap, Phantom Coffee, Appalachian Brewing Company, and Kennie’s Markets.
