guides

Merrimack Valley's Guide to Ice Cream

By Cheryl Lachendro - Macaroni Kid North Shore & Merrimack Valley June 6, 2025

Summer on the North Shore means one thing: it’s ice cream season! 🍦 Whether you're looking to cool off with a classic cone, discover a new family favorite, or treat yourself to some of the region’s most unique frozen creations, we’ve got you covered. From the bustling shops of Andover and Haverhill to the charming corners of Groveland and Georgetown, this guide highlights the best local spots where you can indulge in the sweet, creamy goodness that makes summer so memorable. Grab a scoop (or two!) and let’s dive into the ultimate ice cream adventure!

🍦 Andover, MA

  • J.P. Licks
    28 Park St, Andover, MA 01810
    A Boston-area favorite known for its homemade ice cream, hard yogurt, and coffee. 
  • Cronin’s Ice Cream
    15 Dale St, Andover, MA 01810
    A family-owned business serving quality frozen goods for over six generations. 

🍨 North Andover, MA

  • Mad Maggie’s Ice Cream
    1025 Osgood St, North Andover, MA 01845
    Known for homemade ice cream and custom cakes. 
  • Smolak Farms Ice Cream Stand
    315 S Bradford St, North Andover, MA 01845
    Offers ice cream and slush year-round, along with shakes, frappes, and sundaes. 

🍦 Methuen, MA

  • Jay Gee’s Ice Cream & Fun Center
    602 Lowell St, Methuen, MA 01844
    Combines ice cream with family fun activities like mini-golf and batting cages. 
  • The Barn Ice Cream at Mann Orchards
    15 Branch St, Methuen, MA 01844
    Located on a historic farm, offering high-quality ice cream in a rustic setting. 

🍨 Haverhill, MA

  • Bruster’s Real Ice Cream
    124 Main St, Haverhill, MA 01830
    Features over 24 flavors made fresh daily, including vegan and no-sugar-added options. 
  • Carter’s Ice Cream
    534 Salem St, Haverhill, MA 01835
    A local favorite known for its rich, creamy homemade ice cream. 

🍦 Lawrence, MA

  • Findeisen’s Ice Cream
    24 Jackson St, Lawrence, MA 01840
    Offers a variety of flavors and treats in a cozy atmosphere. 
  • Gilbert’s Ice Cream Co
    125 Lawrence St, Lawrence, MA 01841
    Specializes in crafting homemade ice cream flavors using traditional methods. 

🍨 Georgetown, MA

  • La Dolce Vita
    42B Central St, Georgetown, MA 01833
    Serves ice cream, shakes, lattes, and sweet treats in a charming setting. 
  • Café Sarina
    269A Central St, Georgetown, MA 01833
    Offers ice cream alongside a bakery and café, located on the scenic grounds of Nunan’s. 

🍦 Groveland, MA

  • Jeff & Maria’s Ice Cream and Food
    918 Salem St, Groveland, MA 01834
    Known for their signature "Peanut Butter Wizard" sundae and community involvement. 

🍨 Middleton, MA

  • Richardson’s Ice Cream
    156 S Main St, Middleton, MA 01949
    Award-winning dairy farm offering a wide range of ice cream flavors and family-friendly activities. 
  • Paradise Family Golf
    25 Lonergan Rd, Middleton, MA 01949
    Combines mini-golf with a variety of ice cream treats for a fun family outing. 

🍦 Boxford, MA

  • Benson’s Ice Cream
    181 Washington St, Boxford, MA 01921
    A local staple offering a variety of ice cream flavors in a quaint setting.