We’ve Got the Scoop

ICE CREAM SHOPS OF THE TWIN PORTS

There’s nothing quite like savoring an ice cream treat with friends, especially during the summer. However, if you do a quick Google search of ice cream shops in the Twin Ports, you may find yourself a bit overwhelmed. There are plenty of options, each one looking just as mouth-watering as the next. So, to help you make a decision, a few WOTS writers decided to do some journalistic ice cream eating. We hit our five favorite local shops to compare atmosphere, price and treat selection so that you could have the inside scoop (pun intended) and make the most of your summer.

SWEEDEN SWEETS $

Located in downtown Superior, this shop has a quirky vintage vibe that makes it a fun destination for a mid-summer evening stroll. They have a smaller selection of ice cream, but each flavor is made in-house (the blueberry cheesecake option being one of the most popular) along with their waffle cones. If ice cream’s not your thing, or if you have a bigger-than-normal sweet tooth, you’ll definitely want to give this place a try. They offer shelves and shelves of candy varieties and specialty sodas that can satisfy even the most ravenous sugar craving. With a multi-colored candy-themed mural outside, you won’t be able to miss it.

THE WARMING HOUSE $

Of all the places on our list, this shop has the biggest selection of ice cream flavors, so prepare to feel indecisive. Strategically placed next to a much-loved 50’s style burger place in Cloquet (Gordy’s Hi-hat), the Warming House is the perfect second stop on a summer’s night out. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming with plenty of tables. They also offer a full espresso bar and bakery items. If you have a favorite board game, bring it along and stay for a while.    

LOVE CREAMERY $$$

If you’re into interesting, trendy flavors like salted licorice or goat cheese and marmalade, you’ll love this shop. Located in the craft district of Lincoln Park, Love Creamery is a bit on the spendy side, but well worth the splurge. Their selection is always changing and each flavor is made in small batches, making their ice cream feel like a delicacy. No worries if you can’t choose which flavor you’d like though – they offer flights where you can pick any six! They also offer non-dairy options, and other interesting treats like a kombucha float or an affogato (ice cream and espresso).

BRIDGEMAN’S $$

This diner-style restaurant up the hill has a classy, retro atmosphere and would be a great spot for a friends-and-dinner date. All ice cream flavors are made in the Bridgeman’s factory in Oakdale, Minnesota, and include seasonal options that rotate during the year. They offer malts and shakes as well as a full menu of reasonably priced sundaes. With multiple ice cream hubs around the twin ports, you don’t have to drive too far for one of their classic treats.

CHILLY BILLY’S $$

With a bright color scheme and modern furnishings, you may think this shop is a run-of-the-mill chain at first glance. However, it is locally-owned and only available in Duluth. Chilly Billy’s is a great place to go if you’re in the Kenwood area, and is walking distance from UMD. Set up like most frozen yogurt bars, this shop offers a wide selection of ever-changing flavors, followed by a full buffet of candy toppings. Is frozen yogurt healthier than ice cream? Probably. Is it still healthier after the candy topping buffet? Probably not. Your yogurt creation will be weighed to determine a price when you check out, so keep that in mind if you’re on a budget.