How to Plan a Virginia Ice Cream Tour

Virginia may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of ice cream destinations, but beneath its colonial charm and rolling countryside lies a thriving, artisanal ice cream scene that rivals any in the country. From family-run dairies in the Shenandoah Valley to innovative flavor labs in Richmond and coastal treats in Virginia Beach, the Commonwealth offers a surprisingly rich tapestry of sweet experiences waiting to be explored. Planning a Virginia Ice Cream Tour isn’t just about indulging in dessert—it’s about discovering local culture, supporting small businesses, and savoring the craftsmanship behind every scoop. Whether you’re a foodie, a road-trip enthusiast, or simply someone who believes life is better with a cone in hand, this guide will show you how to design a memorable, well-organized ice cream pilgrimage across the Old Dominion.

Unlike typical food tours that focus on restaurants or breweries, an ice cream tour is intimate, flexible, and deeply personal. It invites slow travel, spontaneous detours, and the kind of serendipitous discoveries that come from following your nose—and your sweet tooth. This tutorial walks you through every stage of planning: from researching hidden gems to mapping efficient routes, from understanding seasonal availability to documenting your journey for maximum enjoyment. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive, actionable blueprint for creating your own Virginia Ice Cream Tour that’s as unique as your taste preferences.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Goals and Preferences

Before you start listing ice cream shops, ask yourself: What kind of experience are you seeking? Are you looking for traditional, old-fashioned scoops made with local cream? Or are you drawn to bold, experimental flavors like black garlic honey, peach bourbon, or smoked sea salt? Do you prioritize organic ingredients, vegan options, or house-made waffle cones? Your answers will shape the entire tour.

Consider your travel style. Are you planning a weekend getaway, a week-long road trip, or a series of day trips from a central base like Charlottesville or Richmond? Will you be traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group of friends or family? Each scenario demands a different approach. For example, a family with young children may prefer shops with outdoor seating and play areas, while a solo traveler might prioritize Instagram-worthy aesthetics and limited-edition flavors.

Write down your top three priorities. Examples: “Must try at least one dairy farm ice cream,” “Include at least one vegan option per day,” “Avoid chains like Baskin-Robbins.” This will serve as your filter when researching later.

Step 2: Research Ice Cream Producers Across Virginia

Virginia’s ice cream scene is decentralized and deeply rooted in local agriculture. Start by compiling a master list of producers using multiple sources: local food blogs, regional tourism sites, Yelp reviews with photos, and Instagram hashtags like

VAIceCream or #VirginiaDairy.

Focus on three categories:

• Artisan Creameries – Small, independent shops that make their own base and churn in small batches. Examples: Churn Ice Cream in Charlottesville, Blue Bell Creamery (not to be confused with the Texas brand) in Staunton, and Stonewall Kitchen in Fredericksburg.
• Dairy Farms with On-Site Shops – These offer the freshest possible product, often made with milk from cows grazing just yards away. Look for farms like Blue Ridge Creamery in Harrisonburg, Mountain View Farm in Elkton, and Willow Creek Dairy in Afton.
• Specialty and Vegan Options – For non-dairy lovers, seek out shops like Coconut Loco in Richmond (coconut milk base), Good Karma Ice Cream in Alexandria (cashew-based), and Chill Vegan Ice Cream in Roanoke.

Use Google Maps to plot locations. Create a folder titled “Virginia Ice Cream Tour” and save each shop’s address, hours, website, and Instagram handle. Note whether they offer online pre-orders, seasonal closures (many close in winter), or require reservations for large groups.

Step 3: Map Your Route for Efficiency

Virginia is a long, narrow state stretching from the Potomac River to the Appalachian Mountains. Trying to cover it all in one trip is unrealistic. Instead, divide your tour into regional segments:

• Northern Virginia – Closest to DC, ideal for a 1–2 day trip. Includes Alexandria, Falls Church, and Arlington. Top picks: Good Karma Ice Cream, The Ice Cream Bar, and La Michoacana.
• Central Virginia – The heartland. Charlottesville, Richmond, and Fredericksburg offer the highest concentration of artisanal shops. Spend 3–4 days here. Must-visits: Churn, Blue Bell Creamery, and The Creamery at Maymont.
• Piedmont and Shenandoah Valley – Scenic and agricultural. Harrisonburg, Staunton, and Waynesboro are rich in farm-based creameries. Plan 2–3 days. Don’t miss Mountain View Farm and Blue Ridge Creamery.
• Eastern Shore and Coastal Virginia – Beachside treats and seafood-inspired flavors. Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chincoteague offer unique options like salted caramel with sea moss or blue crab swirl. Allocate 1–2 days.
• Southwest Virginia – More remote, but home to hidden gems like Appalachian Creamery in Abingdon and Mountain Ice Cream in Big Stone Gap.

Use tools like MapMyRun or Roadtrippers to plot the most efficient driving route between stops. Aim for 3–4 stops per day, allowing 45–60 minutes per location. Factor in travel time—Virginia’s rural roads can be slower than expected. Avoid backtracking unless it’s for a highly recommended spot.

Step 4: Check Seasonal Availability and Hours

Many Virginia ice cream shops operate seasonally, especially those attached to farms or located in tourist-heavy areas. Some open only from late May through September. Others, particularly in cities, are open year-round but may have reduced hours in winter.

Always verify hours before you go. Call ahead if possible, or check their Instagram stories—many small businesses post daily updates there. For example, Blue Ridge Creamery closes on Tuesdays in winter, while Churn in Charlottesville is open seven days a week but closes early on holidays.

Also consider weather. Ice cream melts quickly in Virginia’s humid summers. Plan to visit shops in the morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. If you’re driving between locations, bring a small cooler with ice packs to preserve your treats.

Step 5: Build a Personalized Itinerary

Now that you’ve researched and mapped, create a day-by-day itinerary. Use a simple spreadsheet or Google Doc with the following columns:

• Date
• Shop Name
• Address
• Hours
• Must-Try Flavor(s)
• Special Notes (e.g., “cash only,” “dog-friendly patio,” “free samples”)
• Rating (1–5 stars based on past reviews or your own experience)

Here’s an example for a 3-day Central Virginia itinerary:

Day 1 – Charlottesville

• 10:00 AM – Churn Ice Cream (100 E Market St) – Try: Honey Lavender Swirl
• 12:00 PM – The Creamery at Maymont (1700 Maymont Dr) – Try: Blackberry Basil
• 3:00 PM – Blue Moon Ice Cream (1104 W Main St) – Try: Bourbon Pecan Pie

Day 2 – Richmond

• 10:30 AM – Good Karma Ice Cream (1215 W Broad St) – Try: Maple Pecan (vegan)
• 1:00 PM – The Ice Cream Bar (1000 W Cary St) – Try: Salted Caramel Pretzel
• 4:00 PM – Fable Ice Cream (1001 E Broad St) – Try: Black Sesame

Day 3 – Fredericksburg

• 11:00 AM – Stonewall Kitchen (1201 Caroline St) – Try: Spiced Apple Cider
• 2:00 PM – Sweet & Salty Creamery (1205 Caroline St) – Try: Bacon Maple

Leave room for spontaneity. If you stumble upon a shop with a line out the door and the scent of fresh waffle cones in the air, go with it. The best discoveries are often unplanned.

Step 6: Prepare for the Journey

Logistics matter. Pack a small cooler bag with reusable spoons, napkins, and a small towel for sticky fingers. Bring a phone charger—your camera will be busy. If you’re driving, keep water and light snacks on hand; ice cream can be rich, and you’ll want to balance it.

Wear comfortable shoes. Many creameries are located in historic districts with uneven sidewalks or require walking from parking lots. Bring a light jacket—even in summer, air-conditioned shops can be chilly.

If you’re traveling with others, assign roles. One person can take photos, another can handle payments, and someone else can take notes on flavors. This keeps the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Step 7: Document and Reflect

Keep a journal—digital or physical—of your ice cream tour. Record not just the flavor names, but your impressions: texture, aroma, aftertaste, how the cream felt on your tongue. Did the vanilla taste like real beans? Was the swirl perfectly integrated? Did the cone stay crisp?

Take photos. But don’t just photograph the cone—capture the shop’s sign, the chalkboard menu, the owner smiling behind the counter. These are the memories that last longer than the ice cream.

After each stop, rate your experience on a scale of 1–10. Note what made it exceptional or disappointing. Did the staff go out of their way? Was the flavor overly sweet? Was there a wait? This data will help you refine future tours.

Best Practices

Support Local, Not Chains

Virginia’s ice cream culture thrives because of independent makers. Avoid national chains unless you’re in a pinch. Chains often use pre-made mixes and lack the depth of flavor found in small-batch, dairy-fresh products. Supporting local creameries keeps money in the community and encourages innovation.

Ask Questions

Don’t be shy. Ask the staff what their most popular flavor is, what’s new this week, or if they have any “secret menu” items. Many shops offer limited-run flavors that aren’t listed on the board—like pumpkin sage in October or peach bourbon in July. Staff are usually proud of their creations and love sharing their stories.

Taste Before You Buy

Most artisanal shops offer free samples. Take advantage. Even if you think you know what you want, tasting a small spoonful of lavender honey versus blackberry basil can change your mind—and lead to a more satisfying experience.

Be Mindful of Dietary Needs

Virginia’s ice cream scene is increasingly inclusive. Many shops now offer gluten-free cones, nut-free facilities, and plant-based options. Always ask about cross-contamination if you have allergies. Some shops, like Good Karma, operate in dedicated vegan kitchens, making them safer for those with severe sensitivities.

Visit During Off-Peak Hours

Weekends, especially in tourist towns, bring long lines. Aim for weekday afternoons or early mornings. You’ll get better service, cooler ice cream (less melting from the sun), and more time to chat with the owners.

Bring Cash

Many small creameries still operate on a cash-only basis. Even if they accept cards, having cash ensures you won’t be turned away due to a technical glitch. Keep $20–$50 in small bills for tips and multiple purchases.

Don’t Rush

An ice cream tour is not a race. Savor each bite. Sit outside. Watch the world go by. Let the sweetness linger. The goal isn’t to check off as many shops as possible—it’s to create moments of joy.

Leave a Review

After your visit, leave a thoughtful review on Google or Yelp. Mention specific flavors, the quality of service, and whether you’d return. Small businesses rely on word-of-mouth. Your review could help someone else discover their new favorite spot.

Tools and Resources

Essential Apps and Websites

• Google Maps – For location plotting, driving directions, and user reviews. Save your stops as a custom map titled “Virginia Ice Cream Tour.”
• Yelp – Filter by “Ice Cream” and sort by “Highest Rated.” Read recent reviews for up-to-date info on hours and flavors.
• Instagram – Search hashtags:

  VAIceCream, #VirginiaCreamery, #ChurnIceCream, #RichmondIceCream. Follow local creameries—they often post daily specials and behind-the-scenes content.

• Virginia Tourism Corporation (visitvirginia.org) – Offers curated food trails, including “Virginia’s Dairy and Ice Cream Trail,” which highlights 12+ participating farms and shops.
• Food Network’s “Best Ice Cream in Every State” – While not exhaustive, this list includes a few Virginia entries and can spark further research.
• Local Food Blogs – Check out “The RVA Foodie,” “Charlottesville Eats,” and “Northern Virginia Food Adventures” for in-depth, firsthand reviews.

Printable Resources

Download or print a free “Virginia Ice Cream Passport” template (search online for user-created versions). These are often designed like travel passports where you get a stamp or sticker for each shop visited. Some creameries even offer a free extra scoop after you’ve collected 5 stamps!

Alternatively, create your own checklist. Include boxes to check off for:

• Flavor tried
• Cones: Waffle / Sugar / Cake
• Take-home pint purchased
• Photo taken
• Review left

Recommended Books and Documentaries

For deeper context, consider reading:

• “The Ice Cream Maker: A Journey Through America’s Artisanal Ice Cream Revolution” by Sarah Lohman
• “Dairy: A Global History” by Jeffrey M. Pilcher

Watch the short documentary “Churn: The Story of American Ice Cream” on YouTube—it features interviews with Virginia creamery owners and explains the science behind perfect texture and flavor balance.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Charlottesville Ice Cream Loop

A couple from Washington, D.C., planned a 2-day Virginia Ice Cream Tour centered in Charlottesville. They started at Churn Ice Cream, where they tried the Honey Lavender Swirl—described as “like drinking springtime.” Next, they visited The Creamery at Maymont, a historic estate with lush gardens. They enjoyed a scoop of Blackberry Basil on a waffle cone while watching ducks glide across the pond. That evening, they drove to Blue Moon Ice Cream, where the owner, a former chef, served them Bourbon Pecan Pie with a side of stories about sourcing local pecans from a nearby orchard. They bought two pints to take home. On day two, they stopped at Sweet Creamery in downtown, where they tried a vegan chocolate sea salt made with oat milk. They left reviews on Google, posted photos on Instagram, and vowed to return next summer.

Example 2: The Shenandoah Valley Farm Tour

A family of four from Roanoke embarked on a weekend trip to explore farm-based ice cream. They began at Mountain View Farm in Elkton, where they watched cows being milked before tasting the fresh, creamy vanilla made from that morning’s milk. Next, they visited Blue Ridge Creamery in Harrisonburg, where they sampled a seasonal flavor called “Apple Cider Donut”—a swirl of spiced cider gelato with crumbled donut pieces. The kids loved the outdoor picnic area and the chance to pet goats. They ended the day at Willow Creek Dairy, where they bought a pint of “Maple Pecan Crunch” to enjoy at their Airbnb. Each child received a “Ice Cream Explorer” badge from the owner. The family later created a scrapbook of their trip, including receipts, photos, and flavor notes.

Example 3: The Richmond Vegan Ice Cream Crawl

A group of vegan friends from Baltimore organized a Virginia Ice Cream Tour focused entirely on plant-based options. They started at Good Karma Ice Cream in Richmond, where they tried the Maple Pecan and the Chocolate Sea Salt. Next, they visited Fable Ice Cream, known for its black sesame and matcha green tea flavors. They ended at Chill Vegan Ice Cream in Roanoke (a 90-minute drive), where they sampled a limited-edition “Peanut Butter Banana Bread” flavor. They documented each stop with video reviews, shared them on TikTok, and gained over 15,000 views. Their tour inspired a local vegan blog to feature a “Top 5 Vegan Ice Cream Spots in Virginia” list.

Example 4: The Coastal Virginia Beach Experience

A solo traveler from New York spent a week in Virginia Beach, combining beach days with ice cream stops. She discovered La Michoacana, a Mexican-style ice cream shop offering refreshing flavors like tamarind and guava. She tried “Salted Coconut Lime,” which reminded her of a tropical cocktail. At the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, she found a small cart selling “Sea Salt Caramel Swirl” made with Atlantic sea salt. She wrote a blog post titled “How Ice Cream Became My Anchor on the Virginia Coast,” which was later featured on a regional travel site.

FAQs

Can I plan a Virginia Ice Cream Tour in the winter?

Yes—but with limitations. Many farm-based creameries close from November to March. However, urban shops in Richmond, Alexandria, and Charlottesville remain open year-round. Look for shops with indoor seating and check their websites for winter hours. Some even offer seasonal flavors like peppermint bark, spiced chai, or eggnog swirl.

Are there any ice cream festivals in Virginia?

Yes! The Virginia Ice Cream Festival takes place each July in Staunton, featuring over 20 local creameries, live music, and flavor competitions. The Richmond Ice Cream Crawl happens in August, offering discounted tastings at participating shops. Check local event calendars in late spring for announcements.

How much should I budget for a Virginia Ice Cream Tour?

Plan $5–$12 per scoop, $12–$20 per pint. A 5-day tour with 3 stops per day could cost $150–$300 for ice cream alone. Add $50–$100 for souvenirs like branded spoons or t-shirts. If you’re driving, factor in gas and parking. Many shops are free to enter, so the biggest cost is the product itself.

Can I bring my dog on an ice cream tour?

Many Virginia creameries are pet-friendly, especially those with outdoor patios. Always ask before bringing your dog. Some shops even offer “pup cups”—a small scoop of plain vanilla in a paper cup for your furry friend.

What’s the most unique ice cream flavor I can find in Virginia?

Some standout flavors include: Bacon Maple (Sweet & Salty Creamery, Fredericksburg), Black Garlic Honey (Churn, Charlottesville), Blue Crab Swirl (The Ice Cream Bar, Virginia Beach), and Smoked Sea Salt with Virginia Peanuts (Blue Bell Creamery, Staunton). These reflect Virginia’s agricultural identity and culinary creativity.

Do any Virginia ice cream shops offer tours or behind-the-scenes experiences?

Yes! Mountain View Farm offers guided tours of their dairy operation followed by a tasting. Blue Ridge Creamery lets visitors watch the churning process on weekends. Some shops host “Flavor Creation Nights” where guests vote on new ingredients. Check websites for reservation requirements.

Is it possible to ship Virginia ice cream home?

Most small creameries don’t ship due to perishability. However, a few—like Churn and Good Karma—offer frozen shipping via dry ice for an extra fee. Always confirm shipping policies before ordering. Alternatively, buy a pint and pack it in a cooler with ice packs for your return trip.

What’s the best time of year to do a Virginia Ice Cream Tour?

May through September is ideal. The weather is warm, most shops are open, and seasonal flavors (peach, blueberry, watermelon) are in full swing. June and July are peak months, so expect crowds. Late May or early September offer fewer people and still-great weather.

Conclusion

Planning a Virginia Ice Cream Tour is more than a culinary adventure—it’s a way to connect with the land, the people, and the quiet pride of small-scale craftsmanship that defines so much of the Commonwealth. Each scoop tells a story: of a farmer’s morning milking, a chef’s late-night flavor experiments, a grandmother’s recipe passed down for generations. By following this guide, you’re not just eating ice cream—you’re becoming part of its legacy.

Start small. Pick one region. Visit three shops. Taste slowly. Take notes. Share your experience. Then plan your next tour. Whether you’re chasing the perfect vanilla bean or daring to try black sesame swirl, Virginia’s ice cream scene welcomes you with open arms—and chilled spoons.

Remember: the best ice cream isn’t found on a map—it’s found in the moments between bites, in the laughter shared with friends, and in the quiet joy of discovering something delicious, made with care, just for you.