The Best of Western Mass: Top Ice Cream Spots near UMass Amherst

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Since we have already kicked off summer, it is only appropriate to make a list of some of the best ice cream spots in Western Mass. As I found out through my delicious 'research,' there are plenty of amazing ice cream spots just a short drive from campus. After careful consideration, my favorites are Cindy’s Drive-in, Hadley Scoop at the Silos, Flayvors of Cook Farm, Herrell’s Ice Cream & Bakery, and the North Hadley Sugar Shack.

Cindy's Drive-In

This spot is located in Granby, Massachusetts, and is only a 20-minute drive from campus. Although that might seem a bit far for ice cream, it is totally worth the trip. Cindy’s has over 100 soft-serve flavors, delicious hard-serve ice cream, and what they claim is the best hot dog in Massachusetts. When I visited, I tried the Nutella and strawberry soft-serve and immediately announced that it was the best ice cream I had ever tasted. The soft-serve is offered in only one size, which is equivalent to your average medium serving size. You can also combine any two flavors, and any flavor can be made into a milkshake as well.

The aesthetic experience of Cindy’s is another reason to visit, as the original 50s diner has stood the test of time. The vintage neon sign is a great photo op, and there are plenty of picnic tables so you can hang out and take in the experience. Most diners from that decade have since closed, so this was a unique opportunity and one that I highly recommend!

Hadley Scoop at the Silos

Hadley Scoop is conveniently located just off Route 9, nestled on a farm that houses some adorable Brown Swiss cows. The lawn behind the ice cream shop offers yard games such as cornhole and disc golf for you to enjoy after indulging in your tasty treat. The ice cream itself is made by Maple Valley Creamery, and stands out from your average premium ice cream. The creamery says that "our ice cream is super smooth due to its high cream content. Because our ice cream is cream-based rather than egg and milk-based, it is naturally less dense, making it freeze at a lower temperature".

During my visit, I had a strawberry sundae with peanut butter Oreo ice cream, which was perfect on that hot summer day. My friends tried moose tracks and strawberry cheesecake, both of which they loved. Despite being quite particular about ice cream, I found their offerings exceeded my expectations in terms of quality. Be sure to check it out! 

Herrell’s Ice Cream

Located just around the bend in Northampton, Herrell’s offers delicious homemade ice cream and baked goods. I have been visiting Herrell’s for years, and always feel the need to return because of the quality of the ice cream. The shop makes each batch in a small tub and slowly churns it, making the perfect combination of the finest ingredients. They always have about 40 flavors of ice cream, but my two favorites are burnt sugar & butter and peanut butter. 

The store itself only has indoor seating, which is perfect if you want to escape the heat — but feel free to walk around downtown Northampton with your delicious ice cream cone! 

Here's a tip only locals know: if you visit Herrell's on your birthday, you can get a medium sundae for free!

Flayvors of Cook Farm

This spot is definitely popular among UMass students, and that is no surprise because the ice cream is delicious, the views are beautiful, and the farm animals are an added bonus. Flayvors makes their ice cream on-site at the working dairy farm, which is home to what I believe is one of the prettiest spots in Hadley. On any given day, you will find customers enjoying the sunset over Cook Farm while indulging in their ice cream. This spot has been one of my favorites since moving to Amherst, so I suggest you give it a try. 

Mt. Tom’s Homemade Ice Cream

Right when you walk into the store you are hit with the delicious smell of freshly baked waffle cones and homemade ice cream. Listed on the wall are the 50 flavors of ice cream that Mt. Tom's offers, and the back of the store is lined with candy jars. The ice cream is homemade and absolutely delicious. I ordered burnt coffee, which is a combination of coffee Oreo and burnt sugar. 

The shop is located in downtown Easthampton, which feels like a smaller and more quaint version of downtown Northampton. So, if you are looking for a new spot a bit further away from campus, head to Mt. Tom’s to enjoy some ice cream and the shopping scene downtown.