Donnelly’s Soft Ice Cream
This ice cream stand near Saranac Lake has legions of fans of its homemade soft-serve.
An Adirondack favorite since 1953. Photos courtesy Donnelly’s.
Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Donnelly’s is regarded by many as one of the best ice cream stands in the Adirondacks.
Established in 1953, it has been continuously operated by the same family, with the fourth generation now in charge.
According to an interview in the Adirondack Daily Enterprise, Donnelly’s estimates they serve 80,000 cones per year.
Two daily flavors.
Donnelly’s is a must-do in the Tri-Lakes and High Peaks region.
Renowned for its simplicity, this ice cream shop delights customers with just two enticing flavors: a classic vanilla and a unique rotating flavor that changes daily, keeping the experience fresh and exciting.
Guests can select their preferred size—baby, regular, or large—ensuring there’s a perfect option for every craving. With such a straightforward yet delightful menu, the focus remains on the quality and taste of each scoop.
Check out their Facebook page for the weekly flavor schedule. And leave your credit card at home — Donnelly’s is a cash-only joint.
Don’t judge a book by it’s cover.
The famous ice cream with the flat top.
One distinctive feature of Donnelly’s ice cream cones is their shape.
Unlike the typical soft-serve cone, which usually ends in a point (similar to the top of a Christmas tree), the cones at Donnelly’s are round and somewhat flat on top, resembling a butte.
The ice cream itself has an incredibly creamy texture. Customers can also purchase quarts and pints of ice cream to take home.
Donnelly’s is situated at the corner of Route 186 and Harrietstown Road (also known as Route 86), located between Saranac Lake and Paul Smith’s. According to their many enthusiastic fans, it’s worth a drive from anywhere.
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Find Donnelly’s Soft Ice Cream between Saranac Lake and Paul Smith’s.
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