Michigan has a long-standing love affair with ice cream. Thanks to its strong dairy farming tradition and tight-knit local communities, the state is home to some of the most memorable ice cream shops in the Midwest. In 2026, travelers and locals alike are looking for more than just a sweet treat — they want quality ingredients, unique flavors, authentic stories, and experiences worth the drive. After researching customer reviews, local reputation, ingredient quality, and consistency over the years, here are the Top 15 Best Ice Cream Shops in Michigan that truly stand out.
1. Moomers Homemade Ice Cream – Traverse City, MI
Best for: Award-winning flavors & classic Michigan experience
Location: Traverse City
Established reputation: Nationally recognized
Moomers isn’t just an ice cream shop — it’s a Michigan institution. Located just outside downtown Traverse City, this family-owned creamery has earned national recognition for its rich, creamy textures and unforgettable flavors.
What sets Moomers apart is its deep connection to local dairy farms and its dedication to traditional ice cream-making methods. The ice cream here is dense, smooth, and packed with flavor — the kind that melts slowly and leaves a lasting impression.
Over 150 rotating flavors, with around 20–25 available daily
Michigan favorites like Blue Moon, Cherries Moobilee, and Super Moo
Old-fashioned sundaes, malts, floats, and waffle cones
Scenic countryside setting perfect for families and photos
- Moomers consistently ranks among the best ice cream shops in Michigan and the U.S., and the long summer lines prove it’s worth the wait.
- Visit their website: Moomers Homemade Ice Cream
2. Michigan Creamery – Ann Arbor, MI
Best for: Downtown vibe & student favorite
Location: Ann Arbor
Atmosphere: Casual and energetic
Located in the heart of Ann Arbor, Michigan Creamery is a go-to spot for University of Michigan students, locals, and visitors exploring downtown. This shop blends classic flavors with creative twists, offering ice cream that feels comforting yet exciting.
The shop’s popularity comes from its consistency — creamy scoops, generous portions, and flavors that change with the seasons.
Smooth, well-balanced ice cream with bold flavors
Seasonal and limited-edition offerings
Perfect stop after dinner or a campus walk
Friendly service and relaxed setting
- Michigan Creamery is especially popular late in the evening, making it a favorite dessert destination year-round.
- Official site: MichiganCreamery.com
3. Guernsey Farms Dairy – Northville, MI
Best for: Farm-fresh dairy & nostalgic charm
Location: Northville
Established: Over 70 years of tradition
Guernsey Farms Dairy delivers a true farm-to-table ice cream experience. Known across Metro Detroit, this dairy farm and restaurant has been serving Michigan families for generations.
Their ice cream is made using fresh local milk and cream, resulting in rich flavors that taste noticeably fresher than mass-produced alternatives.
Classic flavors like vanilla bean, butter pecan, and chocolate fudge
Seasonal specialties throughout the year
On-site restaurant for full meals before dessert
Family-friendly atmosphere with old-school diner vibes
- If you enjoy traditional ice cream made the right way, Guernsey Farms Dairy is a must-visit.
- Learn more here: Guernsey Farms Dairy
4. MOO-ville Creamery – Nashville, MI
Best for: Small-town charm & farm-fresh taste
Location: Nashville, Michigan
Vibe: Cozy, relaxed, and authentic
MOO-ville Creamery is one of Michigan’s best-kept secrets. Located in a quiet rural area, this creamery is known for producing exceptionally smooth ice cream using fresh milk from their own cows.
Visitors often describe the flavors as clean, rich, and not overly sweet — perfect for anyone who appreciates high-quality dairy.
Ice cream made directly from their own farm milk
Friendly, small-town service
Great stop during a scenic Michigan road trip
Very high customer satisfaction and repeat visits
- MOO-ville proves that some of the best ice cream experiences are found off the beaten path.
- Website: MOO-ville Creamery
5. Laker Shakes – Maple City, MI
Best for: Summer vibes & lakeside treats
Location: Near Big Glen Lake
Seasonal: Open mainly spring through fall
Laker Shakes is a seasonal favorite that perfectly captures the Michigan summer experience. Located near Big Glen Lake, this charming spot is known for its classic shakes, hand-dipped scoops, and homemade waffle cones.
Many of the ice cream offerings feature premium brands (including Moomers), ensuring high quality with every bite.
Thick milkshakes, malts, and sundaes
Outdoor garden seating
Ideal stop after swimming, kayaking, or hiking
Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
- Laker Shakes is less about fancy flavors and more about memories, tradition, and summer joy.
- Visit: LakerShakes.com
6. Ray’s Ice Cream – Royal Oak, MI
Best for: Late-night ice cream & huge flavor selection
Location: Royal Oak
Known for: Over 100 rotating flavors
Ray’s Ice Cream has been a Metro Detroit favorite for decades. If you ask locals where to get ice cream after dinner, concerts, or a night out, Ray’s name comes up fast.
What makes Ray’s special is the massive flavor variety combined with generous portions and consistently creamy texture. Even with long lines, service moves quickly and efficiently.
Over 100 flavors, including classics and creative combinations
Popular late-night hours during summer
Friendly staff who allow samples
Family-owned with strong community roots
- Ray’s is perfect for both traditional ice cream lovers and adventurous tasters who want something new every visit.
- Website: Ray’s Ice Cream Royal Oak
7. Milk & Honey – Traverse City, MI
Best for: Artisanal flavors & small-batch quality
Location: Downtown Traverse City
Style: Modern, handcrafted ice cream
Milk & Honey is a favorite among food lovers who appreciate creative, thoughtfully made ice cream. Unlike large creameries, this shop focuses on small batches and carefully balanced flavors.
Their approach leans toward natural sweetness and rich textures without being overwhelming.
Small-batch ice cream made with high-quality ingredients
Unique flavors inspired by local produce
Stylish, modern shop design
Excellent dairy-free and seasonal options
- Milk & Honey is especially popular with travelers looking for a refined dessert experience rather than traditional scoops.
- Visit: Milk & Honey TC
8. DeVries Dairy & Creamery – Kalkaska, MI
Best for: Farm-fresh ice cream & family visits
Location: Kalkaska
Experience: Farm-to-cone
DeVries Dairy & Creamery offers one of the most authentic ice cream experiences in Northern Michigan. The ice cream is made using milk straight from their own dairy farm, resulting in incredibly fresh flavor and texture.
Visitors often describe the taste as “clean,” “pure,” and “old-fashioned.”
Ice cream made on-site using their own dairy cows
Seasonal flavors and classic favorites
Family-friendly environment
Great stop for kids and road trips
- If you value freshness and authenticity, DeVries delivers an experience that feels both educational and delicious.
9. Plainwell Ice Cream – Plainwell, MI
Best for: Old-school charm & affordability
Location: Plainwell
Vibe: Classic Midwestern ice cream shop
Plainwell Ice Cream is proof that you don’t need fancy branding to make great ice cream. This shop focuses on simple, well-made scoops, generous portions, and prices that keep families coming back.
It’s especially popular during summer evenings when locals gather after dinner.
Classic flavors done right
Very affordable compared to tourist areas
Friendly small-town service
Great for families and kids
- This is the kind of place where memories are made — sticky fingers, waffle cones, and summer nights.
- Website: Plainwell Ice Cream
10. Charlie’s Dairy Barn – Grand Haven, MI
Best for: Lakeshore visits & nostalgic vibes
Location: Grand Haven
Seasonal: Spring through fall
Charlie’s Dairy Barn is a must-stop when visiting Michigan’s west coast. Located near Lake Michigan, this classic dairy barn-style shop is known for huge portions, thick shakes, and friendly service.
Many visitors make Charlie’s part of their beach-day tradition.
Massive scoops and thick milkshakes
Perfect stop after beach days
Fast service even during busy seasons
Casual, fun, family-friendly environment
- Charlie’s isn’t about trends — it’s about pure summer happiness.
11. Hill Top Soda Shoppe – Benzonia, MI
Best for: Classic soda fountain experience
Location: Benzonia
Vibe: Retro 1950s charm
Hill Top Soda Shoppe is a Michigan classic. Walking inside feels like stepping back in time with checkered floors, vintage décor, and soda fountains ready for floats and sundaes.
Old-fashioned ice cream sodas and sundaes
Hand-dipped scoops using local dairy
Family-friendly, nostalgic atmosphere
Seasonal specialties like cherry and blueberry flavors
- Perfect for bloggers wanting picturesque, retro shots. Great stop if you’re touring northern Michigan.
12. Brinks Family Creamery – McBain, MI
Best for: Small-town charm & authentic ice cream
Location: McBain, Northern Michigan
Atmosphere: Cozy, local, welcoming
Brinks Family Creamery is a small-town favorite known for its rich, creamy ice cream made with care. Families return year after year, drawn by the warm service and high-quality desserts.
Classic flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and butter pecan
Rotating seasonal flavors inspired by Michigan produce
Friendly small-town service
Affordable and family-oriented
- If you’re exploring off-the-beaten-path Michigan towns, Brinks is a must-stop for your blog readers.
13. Pearly’s Dairy King – Beulah, MI
Best for: Historic small-town ice cream
Location: Beulah, Michigan
Established: Since 1950
Pearly’s Dairy King is a nostalgic ice cream shop that has served locals for generations. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional recipes has kept it popular across decades.
Hand-dipped ice cream with classic flavors
Seasonal specials, including cherry and pumpkin
Cozy seating with local charm
Excellent for families and tourists exploring the lakeshore
- A true Michigan summer staple and photo-worthy experience for blog posts.
14. Crystal Flash Creamery – Kalamazoo, MI
Best for: Artisan ice cream & creative flavors
Location: Kalamazoo
Vibe: Modern, small-batch, locally inspired
Crystal Flash Creamery focuses on handcrafted, small-batch ice cream with unique flavor combinations inspired by local ingredients. It’s a favorite among foodies who want more than just a scoop.
Innovative flavors using local fruits, herbs, and chocolate
Dairy-free and vegan options available
Modern, Instagram-friendly décor
Friendly staff offering samples
- Perfect for bloggers writing about artisan desserts or Michigan foodie tours.
15. Uncle John’s Cider Mill Creamery – St. Johns, MI
Best for: Farm-to-cone & seasonal apple flavors
Location: St. Johns, Michigan
Seasonal: Fall-focused, with year-round favorites
Uncle John’s is best known for its cider mill and apple-based treats, but the creamery portion is a hidden gem. Combining fresh dairy with Michigan apples, it creates flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
Seasonal apple-flavored ice cream (apple pie, caramel apple, cinnamon)
Farm-to-cone experience with locally sourced ingredients
Family-friendly, educational farm experience
Cozy rustic setting perfect for photos
- This shop is ideal for fall Michigan travel content, combining ice cream and apple cider tours in one blog post.
Final Thoughts
Michigan is a treasure trove for ice cream lovers. From iconic creameries like Moomers to hidden gems like Brinks Family Creamery, every shop offers something unique — whether it’s classic flavors, farm-fresh ingredients, or seasonal specialties. Exploring these 15 ice cream spots is not just about dessert; it’s about experiencing Michigan’s culture, local flavors, and summer traditions. Grab a cone, hit the road, and make sweet memories!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best ice cream shop in Michigan?
While everyone has favorites, Moomers in Traverse City is widely acclaimed for its award-winning flavors and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
2. Are there vegan or dairy-free options in Michigan ice cream shops?
Yes! Shops like Milk & Honey and many artisan creameries offer vegan and dairy-free flavors using almond, oat, or coconut milk.
3. When is the best time to visit these ice cream shops?
Late spring through early fall is peak season. For shorter lines and quieter visits, try weekday afternoons or early evenings.
4. Are these ice cream shops family-friendly?
Absolutely! Most Michigan ice cream shops, including Guernsey Farms Dairy and Laker Shakes, are perfect for kids and families.
5. Can I do a Michigan ice cream road trip?
Yes! Many bloggers and travelers create “ice cream tours” linking Traverse City, Ann Arbor, and lakeshore towns for a full-day or multi-day adventure.
