Best Ice Cream in Massachusetts

There’s nothing quite like a creamy scoop of local ice cream to sweeten up a sunny day—or even a chilly New England evening (we’re tough up here, right?). If you’re living north of Boston or thinking about calling this area home, you’re in luck. Woburn and its neighboring towns have some seriously swoon-worthy ice cream shops. We’re talkin’ handcrafted, small-batch, family-owned kind of places that make you feel like a kid again.

Here’s a hyperlocal guide to the best ice cream spots in and around Woburn, MA—perfect for after-school treats, date nights, or just satisfying that late-night sweet tooth.

Nanabette’s Ice Cream – Woburn, MA

📍 901 Main St, Woburn, MA

Right in the heart of Woburn Center, Nanabette’s has major small-town charm. Expect generous portions, creamy textures, and all the nostalgic flavors (plus some surprises).

Why locals love it:

• Open late during the summer
  
  
• Kid-friendly outdoor seating
  
  
• Classic flavors with a local twist (hello, Black Raspberry Chip!)
  
  

➡️ Check them out on Facebook

 

Cal’s Creamery – Reading, MA

📍 59 New Salem St, Reading, MA

Cal’s is where locals go to cool off. This spot is part of the Cal’s Restaurant family, and while the food’s great, the ice cream window is a whole different ballgame. They serve Richardson’s Ice Cream—a regional favorite—so you know you’re getting quality with every scoop.

Highlights:

• Walk-up window with fast service
  
  
• Awesome outdoor seating area
  
  
• Flavors rotate frequently
  
  

➡️ Follow Cal’s Creamery on Facebook

 

Dandis Ice Cream – Reading, MA

📍 1331 Main St, Reading, MA

Located right in the heart of Reading, Dandis Ice Cream is a classic neighborhood favorite known for its friendly service, generous portions, and nostalgic charm. Whether you’re craving a creamy soft serve, a loaded sundae, or one of their signature frappes, Dandis delivers that old-school ice cream stand experience that keeps locals coming back season after season. It’s the perfect stop on a warm afternoon, a casual date night, or a family outing. With picnic tables outside and plenty of parking, it’s a go-to summer staple for residents North of Boston.

Highlights:

• Wide variety of hard and soft serve flavors
  
  
• Outdoor seating with a casual, retro vibe
  
  
• Easy access and convenient parking
  
  
• Family-friendly atmosphere
  
  

➡️https://www.dandisreading.com/

 

Rancatore’s Ice Cream & Yogurt – Lexington, MA

📍 1752 Mass Ave, Lexington, MA

If you haven’t been to Ranc’s, are you even from the North Shore? This Lexington staple serves up bold, unique flavors with a rich, custardy base. Think flavors like Green Tea, Kulfi (an Indian-inspired spice blend), and Gingersnap Molasses.

Why it stands out:

• Vegan and dairy-free options
  
  
• Homemade hot fudge and toppings
  
  
• Rotating flavors that never disappoint
  
  

➡️ Visit their site

 

School House Ice Cream – Burlington, MA

📍 216 Cambridge St, Burlington, MA

Tucked inside a converted little red schoolhouse (yep, really!), School House Ice Cream offers an adorable setting and delicious treats. It’s a small-batch operation, and the staff are always friendly and welcoming.

Don’t miss:

• Maple Walnut (a New England classic)
  
  
• Soft serve AND hard ice cream options
  
  
• Ice cream sandwiches that are next-level
  
  

➡️https://schoolhouseicecream.com/

 

Colleen’s – Medford, MA

📍 61 High St, Medford, MA

Worth the short drive from Woburn, Colleen’s serves up homemade ice cream and serious retro vibes. It feels like an old-time soda fountain, with milkshakes, floats, and sundaes made the old-fashioned way.

What people rave about:

• Cookie Monster and Graham Central Station flavors
  
  
• Hand-spun milkshakes that are super thick
  
  
• Cozy seating and a small-town feel in bustling Medford Square
  
  

➡️https://colleensmedford.com/index.html

 

Quick Picks: Best of the Best

Category	Shop
Best for Families	Nanabette’s, Woburn
Most Unique Flavors	Rancatore’s, Lexington
Great Outdoor Spot	Cal’s Creamery, Reading
Retro Charm	Colleen’s, Medford

 

FAQ: Local Ice Cream Cravings

Q: Are any of these shops open year-round?
Yes! Rancatore’s, Nanabette’s and Colleen’s are open all year, so you can grab a scoop even in sweater weather.

Q: Which shop is closest to I-95 or Route 128?
School House Ice Cream in Burlington is super easy to get to from the highway.

Q: Any good spots with non-dairy or vegan options?
Rancatore’s has multiple vegan choices—flavorful and creamy, no compromise needed.

 

Final Scoop

Whether you’re a longtime resident, new to the area, or just scouting neighborhoods north of Boston, these ice cream shops offer more than just dessert—they’re part of the local flavor that makes living here so sweet.

If you’re looking for a home where community, charm, and the best dessert spots are just around the corner, check out more hyperlocal tips and homes for sale at northofbostonlifestyle.com.