Cool Down This Summer: The Best Ice Cream Spots in Rockingham County
From signature flavors and creamy custard to farm‑fresh sorbets and homemade small‑batch scoops, Rockingham County has something cool to satisfy every sweet tooth. Whether you're visiting Bridgewater, Dayton, McGaheysville, Mt. Crawford, or Timberville, these five shops are sure to make your summer deliciously memorable.
1. Bridgewater — Smiley’s Ice Cream
Smiley’s Ice Cream began in 2001 as a mobile trailer, but their fan-base grew so rapidly that they built a new shop that opened in October of 2021. They churn farm‑fresh ice cream and sorbets daily, using ingredients straight from their local dairy.
Whether enjoying the indoor or outdoor seating at their shop (open daily through the summer) or catching them at an event, Smiley’s offers a consistently high-quality taste, solidifying its place as a sweet destination and beloved community staple.
2. Dayton — Grammies Ice Cream
Grammies Ice Cream, offers 48 flavors of hand‑dipped, slow‑churned goodness, using locally sourced ingredients and homemade care since opening its year‑round shop. It’s a family-run favorite, serving Rockingham County with a rotating lineup of classics (think butter pecan, mint chocolate chip) and seasonal surprises.
Whether you're craving a single scoop or a plethora of flavors, Grammies’ warm, friendly setting makes it a welcoming stop on a summer drive through the county.
3. McGaheysville — Kline’s Dairy Bar
Since 1943, Kline’s Dairy Bar has specialized in rich custard‑style ice cream, made with a continuous‑freeze method that delivers denser, creamier scoops.
With rotating weekly flavors (plus reliable vanilla and chocolate), Kline’s charms with its nostalgic walk‑up windows and small‑batch freshness. They're the go‑to for those chasing old‑school flavor in a friendly, hometown atmosphere.
4. Mt. Crawford — Mt. Crawford Creamery
Mt. Crawford Creamery is known for its premium ice cream made with milk from their own cows, offering a true farm-to-cone experience. You can even watch the cows being milked while you enjoy your ice cream!
Enjoy classic flavors and unique creations in a beautiful, rustic setting. It’s the perfect spot for families and ice cream lovers looking to connect with the source of their sweet treats.
5. Timberville — JJ’s Soft Serve
A hometown favorite for generations, JJ’s Soft Serve is the kind of place where summer memories are made. Known for its classic soft serve cones, flurries, and sundaes, JJ’s keeps things simple, and delicious.
With picnic tables, generous portions, and friendly service, it’s the perfect roadside stop after a ballgame or a sunny day exploring Timberville. Don’t miss their signature dipped cones or ever-changing weekly specials that keep locals coming back all season long.
Which spot will you “cone-quer”?
