Donnelly’s Soft Ice Cream
This ice cream stand near Saranac Lake has legions of fans of its homemade soft-serve.
Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Donnelly’s is considered by many to be one of the best ice cream stands in the Adirondacks. Open since 1953, it has been continuously run by the same family, with the fourth generation now in charge.
According to an interview in the Adirondack Daily Enterprise, Donnelly’s estimates they serve 80,000 cones per year.
Two daily flavors.
Famous for offering only two flavors, vanilla and one other flavor that rotates daily, customers choose their preferred size — baby, regular and large. And that’s it!
Check out their Facebook page for the weekly flavor schedule. And leave your credit card at home — Donnelly’s is a cash-only joint.
The famous ice cream with the flat top.
Another unique feature is the shape of Donnelly’s ice cream cones. Unlike the typical soft-serve cone that culminates in a point (think the top of a Christmas tree), the cones at Donnelly’s are round and somewhat flat on top. Kind of like a butte. The texture is super creamy. Quarts and pints of ice cream are available to take home.
Donnelly’s is located at the corner of Route 186 and Harrietstown Road (AKA Rt 86) between Saranac Lake and Paul Smith’s. According to their legions of fans, it’s worth a drive from anywhere.
Find Donnelly’s Soft Ice Cream between Saranac Lake and Paul Smith’s.
Upcoming events in the Adirondacks Tri-Lakes & High Peaks region.
Lake Placid Center for the Arts hosts the 19th annual Fly Fishing Film Tour on March 29, 2025.
A captivating ensemble embodying the spirit of Southern West Virginia performs at Lake Placid Center for the Arts.
The ADKX’s virtual book series, hosts John Sasso, author of “History and Legends of the Northern Adirondacks. Volume 1.”
Albany Public Library, The ADKX and Gem Radio Theatre present true crime stories as told by the criminals themselves.
Experience MAROONED! A Space Comedy an innovative new puppet show funded by a Jim Henson Foundation grant.
Peter Antoniou, from America’s Got Talent, brings his incredible psychic abilities and razor-sharp wit to Lake Placid.
World-Class Rugby Competition in Saranac Lake
Find unique Adirondack gifts and clothing.
Find the other great places near Donnelly’s.
