Maine boasts a rich ice cream culture, deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. With nearly 200 dairy farms contributing to the state’s dairy industry, local creameries craft ice cream known for its creamy textures and delicious flavors.

This dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients sets Maine’s ice cream apart from so many other regions.

Top Pick: Shaw’s Ridge Farm

Address: 59 Shaws Ridge Rd, Sanford, ME 04073

Shaw’s Ridge Farm is a family-owned establishment with over 70 years of history. I believe they have perfected the art of ice cream making.

Their ice cream is renowned for its creamy texture and rich flavors, crafted using traditional methods that highlight the quality of their ingredients. Of course, the farm setting adds to the experience.

My personal favorite is their Black Raspberry ice cream. However, every flavor—from classic Vanilla to seasonal Pumpkin and Butter Crunch—is amazing, each boasting the ideal amount of creaminess and flavor.

Runner-Up: Mount Desert Island Ice Cream

Address: 51 Exchange St, Portland, ME 04101 AND 7 Firefly Ln, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Mount Desert Island Ice Cream is known for its inventive flavors. Unique offerings like Butterscotch Miso and Salty Peanut Butter showcase their creativity and dedication to the craft.

But of all their flavors I’ve tried, I particularly hope they bring back their Honey Lavender ice cream; I don’t think it’s possible to make a better ice cream than that.

Honorable Mention:

Rococo Ice Cream – Kennebunk

Sweetcream Dairy – Biddeford

The Mosquito – Raymond