Ohio's Sweetest Tradition Expands to 195 Stops

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - Ohio's summer just got a whole lot sweeter. The Ohio Ice Cream Trail returns with 195 stops - its largest lineup yet - highlighting the local shops and hometown flavors that make exploring Ohio a treat.

"Summer in Ohio and ice cream go hand-in-hand," said Governor Mike DeWine. "Some of our best family memories throughout the years have involved a stop at a local ice cream shop, and TourismOhio's Ice Cream Trail makes it easier than ever to find the perfect scoop."

Originally launched in 2018 with just 15 stops, the Ohio Ice Cream Trail has grown into a beloved summer tradition. This year, 49 new locations join 146 returning favorites, bringing the trail to a record 195 stops.

From family-owned dairies and neighborhood scoop shops to nationally recognized favorites, the Ohio Ice Cream Trail showcases the flavors and communities that make Ohio unique. Working alongside county convention and visitors bureaus across the state, TourismOhio selected shops that serve Ohio-made ice cream or have become longtime staples of their local communities.

The complete trail is available online and as a printable interactive guide at Ohio.org.

"Ohio's ice cream shops are as unique as the communities they call home," said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development, which oversees TourismOhio. "Behind every stop is a local business that's bringing people together, creating jobs, and giving visitors another reason to explore everything Ohio has to offer."

This year, 49 new locations join 146 returning favorites, bringing the trail to a record 195 stops.

Whether you're craving a classic summer cone at Cream of the Crop Ice Cream Shop in Wakeman, handcrafted gelato at Eda's Italian Ice and Gelato in Marysville, an ice cream-and-coffee break at Monarca Ice Cream and Coffee in Madison, or frozen custard at Whit's in Athens, the trail offers something for every sweet tooth.

"Great road trips aren't just about getting to a destination - they're about the fun you find along the way," said State Tourism Director Sarah Wickham. "The Ohio Ice Cream Trail encourages travelers to slow down, discover sweet new communities, and enjoy the local flavors that make each stop uniquely Ohio."

Among the many returning favorites is 3 Dips Ice Cream Shoppe in Miamisburg. This beloved family-owned parlor offers delicious spins on classic favorites like Banana Split Stackers and sundaes inspired by pop culture, all with a love of giving back to their community - whether it's through supporting local Girl Scout troops and sports teams with specialty sundaes or taking part in downtown festivals and events.

"As a small, family-owned shop, we're extremely grateful to be a returning stop on the Ohio Ice Cream Trail. We welcome trail guests and fellow ice cream lovers from all over to come see us in our historic downtown in Miamisburg," said Curt and Melanie Turner, owners of 3 Dips Ice Cream Shoppe. "We're proud to promote Ohio-made products from our ice cream to our soft serve to our cones to our apple dumplings. We're excited to share our story and invite guests to taste what makes our shop unique. Being a part of the Ohio Ice Cream Trail reminds us that sweetness is best when shared."

The Ohio Ice Cream Trail offers something for every sweet tooth, all across the state!

Behind every scoop on the Ohio Ice Cream Trail is one of Ohio's strongest agricultural industries. The state ranks 11th in the nation for milk production, with more than 1,400 dairy farms and 250,000 cows producing more than 660 million gallons annually.

"There is no better way to celebrate summer than with a taste of Ohio," said Brian Baldridge, director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture. "When you choose your scoops, we encourage you to savor local Ohio Proud flavors that are made here in our state. Each sweet treat is made possible by our hardworking, passionate dairy farmers who work to bring quality products to your table."

The Ohio Department of Agriculture's Ohio Proud program helps to strengthen our state's agricultural communities and supports local producers by signifying products made in Ohio. Buying Ohio Proud ensures consumer dollars stay local while supporting one of Ohio's top industries.

Reporters and producers looking for Ohio summer travel story ideas, road trip inspiration, hidden gems, or interviews about destinations across the state can contact the Ohio Department of Development at [email protected].

Operating within Ohio's Department of Development, TourismOhio works to showcase all Ohio has to offer as a place of adventure, a place of promise, and the place for you.

The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio's people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.

Additional Media Assets for Download

For Immediate Release:
July 15, 2026

For more information, contact:
Mason Waldvogel
[email protected]