Dreaming of the perfect milkshake? We get it. Sometimes your favourite ice cream is just that much better when it’s whipped up into a shake, drizzled with chocolate, and topped with whipped cream and sprinkles. Whether you’re stopping on your cottage commute or taking a road trip specifically in search of milkshake bliss (we won’t judge), we’ve found the places you’ll want to stop across Ontario to satisfy your milkshake craving.
The Vibe in Barrie, Ont.
If you’re looking for milkshakes that are as aesthetically pleasing as they are tasty, you’ll want to try out The Vibe. With two locations in Barrie, The Vibe specializes in burgers, shakes, and donuts—a winning combination in our books. Try their “sm’oreo” milkshake, a s’mores and oreo combination fit for a chocolate-lover, or the birthday cake shake, which comes complete with a slice of cake and rainbow sprinkles on top. Whatever you’re ordering, you’ll want to check out this vibrant new spot on the way to the cottage.
Elsie’s Diner in Owen Sound, Ont.
Nothing goes better with diner food than an ice-cold milkshake. A ’50s-style burger joint located in Springmount, Elsie’s Diner serves shakes made with real ice cream in a variety of flavours. Malted milkshakes and ice cream floats are also available for those who want something a little extra. Elsie’s also has an extensive breakfast menu—want a side of cinnamon bun pancakes with your malted milkshake? Be sure to ask about the featured milkshake flavour of the week.
Central Smith Creamery in Selwyn, Ont.
Producing premium ice cream since 1952, Central Smith Creamery serves milkshakes, sundaes, and more at their location just north of Peterborough. Fun flavours like Algonquin Canoe, Big Foot, and Lavender Lemonade make this a must-try pit stop on the cottage commute. If you like what you taste, grab a tub to go so you can enjoy quality ice cream and milkshakes all weekend long, lakeside.
Belly Ice Cream in Huntsville, Ont.
Belly Ice Cream was featured on Dragons’ Den in 2016 and is thriving today as an artisanal ice cream shop based in Huntsville. Belly will make Milkshakes with any ice cream of your choice—and with flavours like Muskoka S’mores, Buttertart, and White Chocolate Lemon, you can’t go wrong. To top it off, everything at Belly’s is handmade, from the marshmallows to the caramel. Grab a gourmet cookie to go with your milkshake, and enjoy it on the patio.
Kawartha Dairy in Bobcaygeon, Ont. (and more!)
Ontarians know you can’t go wrong with Kawartha Dairy ice cream—and it’s even better in milkshake form. Pick any flavour and customize your shake with a choice of white or chocolate milk to make it your own. From classic flavours like Moose Tracks and Gold Medal Ribbon to new flavours like Coconut and Sugar Shack Maple, there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes. Founded in 1937 in Bobcaygeon, Ont., where its headquarters still live today, Kawartha Dairy has become a staple of cottage-country living. There are multiple locations in Ontario, including in spots like Orillia, Minden, Huntsville, and Bancroft.
Mooskoka’s in Port Carling, Ont.
Also serving up Kawartha Dairy ice cream is Mooskoka’s. Located at the locks near Port Carling Dock, enjoy an old-fashioned milkshake made from any flavour of the classic ice cream with a waterfront view. Mooskoka’s also offers smoothies, iced coffee, and frozen yogurt, making it the perfect spot for a cold summer treat. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the Mooskoka moose mascot.
The Port Shores in Port Loring, Ont.
Come for the milkshakes; stay for everything else The Port Shores offers. Stop by Tommy’s Burgers and ice cream shop for a milkshake and fries, then take a stroll to Saturdays, a home decor and gift shop. If you’re looking for an outdoor activity, The Port Shores also offers kayak, paddleboard, and canoe rentals, as well as guided boat and hiking tours in the areas of Duck Lake, Pickerel River, and Lost Channel. With a gorgeous outdoor deck and waterfront view, your visit to The Port Shores might just turn into a weekend-long stay.
The Vic Café in Picton, Ont.
This adorable, colourful diner in Prince Edward County is a great brunch spot, whether you’re looking to dine-in or take your food to go. Milkshakes at The Vic are made with real ice cream and milk, topped with whipped cream and sugar, and come in the classic flavours—chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. With a large breakfast menu and a good variety of lunch options, you’ll want to stay and grab a bite to eat to go with your shake too.
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