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Where to head when you're in the mood for a taste of summer.
Located in Eastlake (Food Lion shopping center) this is the most recent parlor to open in our area. In addition to serving Homestead Creamery products, they feature smoothies, Nathans hot dogs (for those of us who can't get enough of that sweet/salty combo), and later hours in the summer! Indoor seating is available.
7 Days a Week | 11am-10pm
14807 Moneta Rd. Suite E Moneta, VA
You'll find this little stand-alone gem on Mitchell's Point. We love visiting by boat for the view, and our pooches love their pup cups! They serve hand scooped Hershey's ice cream and have plenty of outdoor picnic table seating. Weekends boast live music at the restaurant next door. Dog Friendly.
Sunday-Thursday 12pm-8pm | Friday, Saturday 12pm-9pm
3553 Trading Post Rd. Smith Mountain Lake, VA | C2
There is a dedicated cafe' inside the main building at Harvest Moon Marketplace. Homestead Creamery ice cream, shakes, and sundaes, along with baked goods and some light lunch options are available. There is a plethora of indoor and outdoor seating.
Sunday-Friday 12pm-6pm | Saturday 12pm-8pm
14917 Moneta Rd. Moneta, VA
The OG of the lake area. Local ice cream made from local cows. If you're looking for a rich, delicious, fresh, old-fashioned treat, this is it. Situated inside their country market and sandwich shop, there is outdoor seating available in the front and back of the building. Dog Friendly.
Monday-Saturday 11am-6pm
7254 Booker T Washington Hwy. Wirtz, VA
Out on the water? Track the Ice Cream Boat's whereabout for some float-up or dockside refreshment this summer! Such a fun SML institution. You'll find them primarily around the main channel of the Roanoke River. If you're like to follow the real-time location of both the Ice Cream Boat and the Hot Dog Boat, you can download the (free) SML+ app for Apple or Android.
Bridgewater Plaza is a frequent destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're there to feed the carp, play some mini golf, or do a little shopping, chances are you'll need a refreshment break at some point. Find the Ice Cream Cottage on the lower level, lakeside, where they serve Hershey products and shaved ice to cool you off on a hot day.
Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm | Friday, Saturday 11am-11pm
16430 Booker T Washington Hwy. Moneta, VA | R28
The downtown Moneta shopping area holds a nostalgic ice cream shop adjacent the Mayberry Pizzaria. Blue Bunny ice cream is served with indoor seating available.
Wednesday-Sunday 12pm-8pm
1100 Celebration Ave. Suite 203, Moneta VA
Rookies ♥
If you love cookies and ice cream together (i.e. an ice cream sandwich), this is your spot. Both are made in-house and feature some delicious combo options that rotate seasonally. Gluten free and vegan cookies are available along with gluten free and vegan ice cream. Outdoor seating. Dog Friendly.
Tuesday-Sunday 1pm-10pm
213 Scruggs Rd. Moneta, VA
The Wake Cafe is not an ice cream parlor, but a combination diner/gift shop. They are, however, one of the few places around the lake that offers soft serve ice cream.
Tuesday-Sunday 10-8
520 Scruggs Rd. Moneta, VA
Grab-and-Go
If you're craving a quick ice cream sandwich or popsicle, you can find freezers full of classic goodies by water at Mariner's Marketplace (C2) and The Cottage Gate at the Lake (R11 -Bernard's Landing) or by land at The Farmhouse Catering and J Bohn Bishop Mercantile (who sells cult favorite Jeni's ice cream). One more location to note by water is Magnum Point Marina (B37), where they serve hand-dipped Hershey's at their restaurant.
Personal favorites where I've had repeat exemplary experiences are notated with a ♥. Hours are accurate at time of publication but are subject to change. Please call ahead to confirm!