New Jersey Ice Cream - Explore New Jersey

There’s something undeniably magical about a perfectly scooped cone on a warm New Jersey day. From classic chocolate and vanilla to adventurous new flavors, the Garden State is a true paradise for ice cream lovers. We’ve crisscrossed the state, sampled countless scoops, and discovered some of the most delightful creameries, parlors, and stands that make New Jersey a premier destination for frozen treats.

Indulge in the Classics and Discover New Delights

You’ll find an incredible variety of ice cream experiences across New Jersey, whether you’re craving a rich, traditional scoop or something wonderfully unique.

For those who appreciate the tried-and-true, Day’s Ice Cream in Ocean Grove is a legendary spot that has been serving up sweet delights since 1876. It’s no surprise that this old-school shop excels at classics like chocolate and mint chip, but don’t hesitate to venture out with their “trash can” ice cream, loaded with potato chips, M&M’s, and more for a truly wild ride. Similarly, Van Dyk’s in Ridgewood has been a beloved local institution for nearly 50 years, sticking to classic flavors with a perfect touch.

If you’re seeking a bit of retro charm with your cone, Magic Fountain in Bayonne offers an old-school roadside vibe with vintage signage that transports you back in time. While their Italian ice and soft-serve are fantastic, their hard ice cream, including the “Monster Cookie” with both Oreos and chocolate chip cookies, is a must-try. In Burlington City, Ummm Ice Cream Parlor boasts maybe the state’s most gorgeously retro interior, with wooden booths and chairs, perfect for savoring flavors like chocolate-covered espresso bean or the whimsical Rosanna Banana Dana. And down in Galloway, Lindy Hops captures a cool ’50s vim and vibe, serving up delicious scoops like banana nut chocolate chip and orange pineapple.

Creative Flavors and Unique Experiences

New Jersey’s ice cream shops are not afraid to push the boundaries of flavor, offering inventive combinations that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ice Cream Shop of Manahawkin truly gets creative with flavors like nostalgic Dunkaroos ice cream and the wild “Sea Slime,” packed with Oreos, cookie dough, gummy bears, Fruity Pebbles, marshmallows, and waffle cone pieces. For those who appreciate a unique twist, Das’ Creamery in Budd Lake, led by a culinary school background, offers bold options like Black Licorice ice cream and even a daily “secret” flavor you have to ask for! Meanwhile, Kwality Ice Cream in Edison is a must-visit for its Indian ice cream specialties, with the “Alphonso King Mango” being an absolute standout – a wonderfully sweet and fruity treat recommended by many.

The Shore also boasts some incredible innovators. The WooHoo in Beach Haven, known as “The Jersey Shore’s favorite ice cream,” offers both familiar and feisty flavors, including their “Minty Madness” with mint chocolate candies and Girl Scout Thin Mints. For a truly unique regional treat, head to Leo’s Ice Cream in Waterford, famous for “yum-yum,” a delightful ice cream/sherbet/water ice hybrid that’s a South Jersey staple.

More Than Just a Scoop: Shops with Character

Many of New Jersey’s ice cream destinations offer more than just a sweet treat; they provide a memorable experience.

Duffer’s in Wildwood is a summer institution, not just for its 30-plus ice cream flavors, but also for its accompanying restaurant, arcade, and miniature golf course, making it a perfect family outing. Bayside Creamery in Perth Amboy offers ice cream with a view, located right on the Raritan Bay (or technically, the Arthur Kill!), where you can enjoy your scoop while strolling the marina.

In Rutherford, Ice Cream Charlie’s has been serving tasty frozen treats for over two decades, known for its goofy exterior graphics and wild flavors like caramel Kit Kat and Rice Krispy Treat, along with their popular “sand pails” filled with soft-serve. Colonia Dairy Maid in Woodbridge is another old-school stand, a classic spot offering over 40 flavors, including the intriguingly named “Bunny Tracks.”

For those exploring the cultural heart of New Jersey, Nasto’s Ice Cream in Newark’s Ironbound section is a true food institution that opened in 1939. Their secret to success? As the owner once put it, “Put the good stuff in and get good stuff out.” You can even find Nasto’s ice cream in hundreds of restaurants across the state.

Farm Fresh and Local Delights

Several New Jersey farms are now entering the ice cream business, offering fresh, local ingredients straight from the source. Grochowicz Farms in Glen Gardner is a fantastic addition to this list, offering divine double rich chocolate, marvelous mint chocolate chip, and “berry, berry good” black raspberry. And, of course, Windy Brow Farms in Fredon is legendary for its adventurous, yet surprisingly delicious, creations like Taylor Ham ice cream and tomato pie ice cream, alongside perfectly executed classic flavors like their dark chocolate.

A Treat for Every Taste

From the bustling streets of Jersey City with spots like Dahlia’s Ice Cream Spot, known for its homemade ice cream, soft-serve, and ice cream cakes, to charming towns like Mullica Hill where Cherry on Top offers about 30 delightful flavors, New Jersey’s ice cream landscape is incredibly diverse. Whether you prefer the “silky-smooth” soft-serve at Skipper Dipper on Long Beach Island, the thick and fudgy triple chocolate at Last Licks in East Hanover, or the creamy flavors at Scoop to My Lou in East Brunswick, there’s a perfect scoop waiting for you.

We encourage you to embark on your own sweet adventure and explore the many incredible ice cream shops that make New Jersey so special. You’re sure to find a new favorite!