Few summer pleasures are as wonderful as enjoying ice cream in Block Island on a warm afternoon. Whether spending the day at the beach, stopping by as part of a ferry trip, or enjoying a quiet weekend escape, there’s always time for a sweet treat here.
You’ll find shops offering everything from homemade scoops and gelato to shave ice and soft serve. So grab a spoon, or a cone, and come along for an ice cream tour of the island’s favorite spots.
Island Classics
Some traditions never get old, and a stop at one of Block Island’s long-standing ice cream shops is one of them. Aldo’s Bakery & Handmade Ice Cream has been delighting visitors since 1970. This family-run Old Harbor institution is known for its homemade ice cream, gelato, and pastries, along with fresh fruit smoothies for those who prefer something to drink. Choose from a wide variety of flavors, then enjoy your cone while watching the boats come and go at the nearby ferry dock.
The Ice Cream Place on Weldon’s Way is another must-visit spot. This classic shop has been serving up sweet treats in the region for over 40 years. They offer homemade scoops and sundaes, along with vegan and dairy-free options for those with dietary requirements.
Refreshing Shave & Chill Spots
For something a little different, Block Island has several spots with frozen treats that go beyond the classics. On Water Street, Shave Ice Shack brings a taste of Hawaii to the island with colorful, fluffy shave ice. With over 25 flavors available, there’s plenty to discover for a cool, memorable treat.
Nearby, Blocksicle, just steps from the ferry, offers handcrafted, fruit-filled popsicles made with fresh ingredients. With over 40 rotating flavors, there’s always something new and refreshing to try.
At the end of Ocean Avenue, Dips Scoop Shack offers a fun mix of ice cream and candy by the pound. One of their standout offerings is the ice cream nachos, a playful creation featuring scoops of ice cream with waffle cone chips.
Sweet Treats Beyond the Scoop
Ice cream also appears on menus at some of the area’s most popular eateries. Rebecca’s Seafood, a Water Street staple, serves up fresh fish and chips, clam strips, and other island fare. Afterward, stop by their dessert counter to try their delicious ice cream cones, shakes, or floats.
For a crowd-pleasing option, Virginica Pizza on Corn Neck Road dishes up artisan pizzas and soft-serve ice cream. The Old Post Office Bagel Shop adds a unique twist with its ice cream and crepes, served after 4 p.m. — a perfect stop for an early-evening indulgence.
And for those looking for a laid-back dessert stop, The Coffee Place serves smooth gelato along with coffee drinks and baked-from-scratch treats, making it a cozy spot to pause between island adventures.
Tips for Treat Seekers
Most ice cream shops on Block Island are seasonal, typically open from late spring through early fall. Some locations are cash-only, so it’s always a good idea to have a few dollars on hand.
To make the most of your visit, pair your treat stop with a bit of exploring. Stroll around Old Harbor, catch the sunset at the North Lighthouse, or take a bike ride down Corn Neck Road.
Ice cream on Block Island is more than just dessert. It’s part of the island’s summer tradition. Plan your visit to this destination and find the spots that make your visit unforgettable, one scoop at a time.