National Ice Cream Day falls on Sunday, July 21, 2024. Railfanning and ice cream make for a perfect duo during the summer season. Throughout the years, I’ve discovered some fantastic ice cream shops that are conveniently located near popular railfanning locations.
Cowboy Cones
508 Wyoming Ave, Wyoming, OH 45215
Cowboy Cones was founded by HVAC salesmen who loved ice cream. They offer more than 35 flavors and make their own homemade waffle cones. The shop is conveniently located just a short stroll from the railroad tracks.
Railway Companies: Amtrak, CSX, and Norfolk Southern
District: CSX Cincinnati Temiral Subdivision
Meadows of Greenwood
1420 E Pleasant Valley Blvd, Altoona, PA 16602
The Meadows of Greenwood has been making their own custard since 1950. They’re famous for their Arctic Swirls, which are made with their custard and your choice of candy, nuts, or fruit. Some of the most popular options are Snickers, Oreo, M&M, Heath, cookie dough, Nestle Crunch, Twix, Butterfinger, Reese’s Pieces, chocolate chip, peanut butter cup, and Hawaiian delight. This spot is just a quick drive from downtown Altoona.
Railway Companies: Amtrak and Norfolk Southern
District: Norfolk Southern Pittsburgh Line
Perry’s Last Stand
2704 Cranberry Hwy, Wareham, MA 02571
Perry’s offers more than 70 hard-serve flavors and has been a beloved spot on Cape Cod for more than three decades. In addition to ice cream, Perry’s serves up a variety of dishes including sandwiches, burgers, pizza, and seafood. You can find this gem just a quick drive away from the Cape Cod Railroad Bridge.
Railway Companies: Mass Coastal Railroad and MBTA “Capeflyer”
District: Cape Main Subdivision
Sugar Shack By The Tracks
405 E Wyoming Ave, Lockland, OH 45215
The Sugar Shack is famous for its delicious ice cream sundaes, soda floats, train-wreck ice cream nachos, knuckle sandwiches, milkshakes, and other treats. Situated next to the Norfolk Southern Cincinnati Line, this 1950s-style ice cream shop is a must-visit.
Railway Companies: Norfolk Southern and CSX
District: Norfolk Southern Cincinnati Line
Toft Dairy Ice Cream Parlor
3717 Venice Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870
Toft’s has been a staple in the Sandusky community since 1900, being the oldest dairy in Ohio. With a wide selection of over 50 ice cream flavors and various dairy products, they are a local favorite. Conveniently located near Chicago Line and Sandusky District, it’s just a short drive away.
Railway Companies: Amtrak, and Norfolk Southern
District: Norfolk Southern Chicago Line
Let me know where you like to grab ice cream while you’re out railfanning. Shoot me an email!
