For as long as we can remember, a stop at the ice cream parlour has been a summer staple, and that’s a tradition we don’t plan on giving up any time soon. Whether it be on route to the campsite, closing off a day at the beach, or a Sunday treat, when it comes to ice cream, the best experience comes right from the source.
But why stop at one? Indulging in an Ontario dairy bar discovery tour is not only a fantastically delicious day trip, but a unique way to connect with and support the makers behind the flavours. Much like any other artisanal craft, it can be tough to get not only the full experience, but variety, from the grocery store - in fact, some of the most unique creations are only available at the parlours themselves.
Whether it be across the province or down the road, we’ve got your next ice cream trip covered with a curated list of some of the province’s most beloved local dairy parlours… and we’re definitely screaming about it!
Northern Ontario
Being that as the proximity to the Canadian Shield increases, the number of dairy farms decreases, we love featuring those who still manage to contribute to Ontario dairy. These northern Ontario dairy parlours feature some of the region's best ice cream using 100% Ontario milk.
Dairy Bar Stops
Southwestern Ontario
Home to the dairy capital of Canada and the Oxford Cheese Trail, southwestern Ontario’s rich agriculture fosters a thriving dairy industry, with ice cream being no exception. Some of the region’s favourite parlours have been serving their communities for as long as 70 years without falter.
Dairy Bar Stops
Central Ontario
Known for its infamous cottage country towns, central Ontario is the perfect place for an ice cream roadtrip. As an outdoor oasis, you’re sure to work up an appetite. So, take a day off the lake and visit some of the region's best dairy parlours, including Ontario’s own, Kawartha Dairy, with over 5 locations across the province.
Dairy Bar Stops
GTA
In a region known for its diversity, culture and abundance of eateries that reflect it, one way or another, ice cream is a classic to all. Accompany your next trip to the big city with some of the area's newest and oldest dairy parlours from Bang Bang to Tom’s Dairy Freeze. No Matter your way into Toronto, there’s a stop for you!
Dairy Bar Stops
Southeastern Ontario
Another region rich in agriculture, southeastern Ontario takes pride in their sense of community and aptitude to support one another. This shines through in their dining scene, with farm-to-table being a primary value of many restaurateurs. With that in mind, the area's dairy parlours aim to not only use 100% Ontario milk in their creations but also feature other locally produced ingredients such as fruit, honey and more!
Dairy Bar Stops
If you’re looking to get the most out of your next trip, take a look check out our Discover Ontario Dairy Map, which features an abundance of local dairy centric stops including farms, producers, and shops filled with Ontario’s best milk, cheese, ice cream, and more!