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.
North Country Community College holds its Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair, featuring works by the Adirondacks’ best artisans.
Join a month-long virtual competition and an epic in-person race on Thanksgiving Day in Saranac Lake.
Join the 11th annual fun run celebrating the life of Erin Farkas Dewyea and supporting Tupper Lake youth.
Adirondack Health in Lake Placid sponsors the 15th Annual 5K Turkey Trot Walk/Run on Thanksgiving Day.
The Herb Brooks Arena at the Olympic Center hosts the second annual Adirondack Winter Invitational Thanksgiving Weekend.
Catch the holiday spirit at this performance of one of the most beloved and classic ballets.
Visit BlueSeed Studios to see an imaginative and creative display of Christmas Trees adorned by local artists and craftspeople.
It’s the 39th annual Sparkle Village Craft Fair in Saran Lake, celebrating the holidays in the Adirondacks.
The Village of Saranac Lake’s holiday celebration includes a lighted fire truck parade, tree lighting and a visit from Santa.
Kick off the holiday season on Saturday, December 7, with the Saranac Lake Holiday Village stroll, which supports local businesses.
Celebrate the Holiday Spirit at Lake Placid’s Holiday Village Stroll.
Saturday Night Live alum brings his comedy tour to the Conference Center in Lake Placid on December 13.
Skip the spa, unplug, and forest bathe in the Adirondacks. Experience a guided nature sensory walk near Lake Placid.
Acclaimed singer-songwriter Dar Williams appears at Lake Placid’s Center for the Arts on January 9, 2025
World-Class Rugby Competition in Saranac Lake
Find unique Adirondack gifts and clothing.
Find the other great places near Donnelly’s.
