Ice cream is one of the most popular and easily accessible desserts around. There is something about this frozen, creamy treat that we can't get enough of during the summer (or all year). Guelph has excellent restaurants and cafés, so it's no surprise that they have great options for ice cream as well. Here are seven of the best places to grab ice cream in Guelph.
1. Chocolats Favoris
This Montréal based chain opened up in the south end of Guelph not too long ago. They usually have three different soft serve flavours to choose from along with your choice of milk, dark or white chocolate coating. You also have the option to pick one of their flavours such as s'mores or strawberry cheesecake which includes a chocolate coating as well as some extras. The soft-serve is sweet and creamy, and it would be delicious on its own, but the thick, luxurious chocolate is a welcome bonus. This is definitely one of the best places to visit for ice cream in Guelph.
2. The Boathouse
The boathouse has a small ice cream stand attached to their tea room and is located on the Speed River. The offer an array of ice cream flavours to choose from with the option to enjoy it in a cone or cup. One of their most popular flavours is the watermelon sherbert that they offer during the summer. Of course, you can't beat the view of the river while you enjoy your frozen treat. The only downside of this local favourite is the lack of indoor seating since it is only an ice cream stand. This also means they are only open during the summer months (May to September).
3. Sweet
Sweet is an old-fashioned ice cream and candy shop located conveniently by Guelph Central Station downtown. Along with plenty of chocolate and candy options, they sell Kawartha ice cream here. If you've never heard of Kawartha ice cream, it is a popular Canadian brand originally from slightly north of Peterborough. Many of those who have had it, swear it is the best ice cream they've ever had. Another great aspect of this location is that they don't charge extra for a sugar or waffle cone.
4. Bluewater Creamery @ Guelph Farmer's Market
Bluewater Creamery is a local Guelph family business that makes homemade ice cream, sorbet, and vegan/non-dairy ice cream in small batches using local ingredients. Their flavours often change depending on the season and what is locally available. They advertise their current flavours on Instagram so be sure to follow them. Since their ice cream is homemade and local, you can taste can definitely taste the quality compared to regular store-bought brands. Make sure you plan ahead though because their ice cream is only available through the Guelph Farmer's Market (Saturday mornings) or Aberfoyle Antique Market (Sundays, April through October).
5. Marble Slab Creamery
This ice cream shop is located in the Edinburgh market and offers a good number of flavours along with a huge selection of different toppings. They have ample outdoor and indoor seating along with an expansive menu including shakes, sundaes, cakes and more. Marble Slab Creamery is also available on Skip the Dishes which means you can actually get ice cream delivered to you. This makes it a great choice for those days where you're craving ice cream but don't want to leave the comfort of your home.
6. Mountain Hall, LA Pitt, Creelman Hall
While technically not an ice cream shop, these on-campus dining halls all have a section dedicated to ice cream. There are plenty of classic flavours to choose from, and you can't beat the convenience of the location. The next time you're craving ice cream after an intense study session in the library, you won't have to go far. Since pricing is based on weight, it is surprisingly affordable to get ice cream on campus, especially if you pay using your meal plan.
7. Dairy Queen
Dairy Queen may be everywhere, but it is still one of the best places to get ice cream in Guelph. There are a few locations so you can choose whichever is closest to you. Their blizzards are a delicious treat that separate it from other ice cream shops. There are a few different flavours including a "flavour of the month", check Instagram to find out what the current flavour is.
Guelph has plenty of great places to get ice cream from no matter what time of the year it is. Whether you prefer local shops or national chains, there is something for everyone.