2 Best Artisan Ice Cream Shops in Gaylord, MI (2026)

1. Drift Ice Cream Shop Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 125 North Otsego Avenue

🍦 Rate & details 📞 +1-989-470-8200 📍 Map

2. Mooney's Ice Cream Parlor Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · 605 South Otsego Avenue

🍦 Rate & details 📞 +1-989-732-7484 📍 Map

Ice cream shops in Gaylord, MI: a local guide

We currently track 2 ice cream shops and parlors serving Gaylord, MI in Otsego County.

What ice cream costs in Gaylord

A single scoop in Gaylord usually runs about $4-$7, with specialty sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a little more than soft-serve chains.

What to look for in an ice cream shop in Gaylord

Read reviews for portion size and freshness, not just the flavor list.
Check hours and seasonality — many Gaylord scoop shops keep shorter winter hours.
For groups or events, ask about pints, cakes, and catering.
Look for house-made or small-batch ice cream — Gaylord shops that churn their own usually taste fresher.
Check for dairy-free, vegan, or no-sugar-added options if you need them.

Questions to ask before you go

What dairy-free or vegan options do you have?
Which flavors are seasonal or local right now?
Do you sell pints, cakes, or cater events?
What are your hours this time of year?
Do you have gluten-free cones or toppings?

Many Gaylord listings also serve hand-dipped ice cream, soft serve, gelato, sorbet, and dairy-free options.

Frequently asked questions

How much does ice cream cost in Gaylord?

A single scoop in Gaylord usually runs about $4 to $7, with sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a bit more than soft-serve chains.

Where can I find dairy-free or vegan ice cream in Gaylord?

Many Gaylord shops now carry dairy-free, vegan, or sorbet options. Check the listings above and ask, since offerings change with the season.

What is the difference between gelato and ice cream?

Gelato has less fat and less air than ice cream, so it is denser with more intense flavor. Several Gaylord shops serve both.

Are Gaylord ice cream shops open year-round?

Some keep shorter winter hours or close seasonally. Check the hours for the shop you have in mind before you go.

Ice cream in Gaylord: the local scoop

Where's the best ice cream in Gaylord?

The shops above are the independent, small-batch spots in and around Gaylord — no chains. The order reflects community ratings, so the more people rate, the better it gets. Tried one? Give it a rating.

Gelato, custard, or classic scoop?

Use the category chips to filter Gaylord shops by gelato, frozen custard, soft serve, sorbet and dairy-free, and rolled ice cream — whatever you're craving.

Know a spot we're missing?

This directory is built from open data and grows with the community. If a great Gaylord scoop shop isn't listed, add it here.

GelatoFrozen CustardSoft ServeFrozen YogurtSorbet & VeganRolled Ice CreamIce Cream CakesItalian Ice

Own an ice cream shop in Gaylord?

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