I love ice cream, and Bend, Oregon has some amazing spots to satisfy my sweet tooth. When the sun’s shining and I’m craving a cool treat, I know just where to go.
The city’s ice cream scene is vibrant and diverse, with options for every taste.
Bend boasts five standout ice cream shops that locals and visitors alike rave about. From creamy gelato to unique flavors and homemade waffle cones, these spots offer something special. I can’t wait to share my top picks with you. Get ready for a mouthwatering tour of Bend’s best ice cream destinations!
1. Bonta Gelato – Downtown Bend
I recently treated myself to some delicious gelato at Bonta Gelato in downtown Bend. This charming shop offers a wide variety of unique flavors that are sure to please any palate.
I tried their Stracciatella and Dulce de Leche flavors, and they were absolutely divine. The gelato was creamy, smooth, and packed with flavor. I especially loved how the chocolate chips in the Stracciatella added a nice crunch.
The staff was friendly and let me sample a few flavors before making my final decision. They even suggested some great flavor combinations I hadn’t thought of.
The shop has a cozy atmosphere that makes it perfect for a quick treat or a relaxing break from exploring downtown Bend.
If you’re in the mood for something different, try their Mayan Chocolate or Lavender Coffee Chip flavors. These unique options really showcase Bonta’s creativity and commitment to quality ingredients.
Rating: 4.8 (1000 reviews)
Location: 920 NW Bond St #108, Bend, OR 97703
Contact: (541) 897-9282
Website: Visit Website
2. Cravin’s Candy Emporium – Bend OR
I recently visited Cravin’s Candy Emporium in Bend, and it was like stepping into a sweet wonderland. The shop is packed with every type of candy you can imagine, from old-school favorites to modern treats.
As I walked in, the colorful displays and tempting aromas brought back fond memories of my childhood. I couldn’t resist trying some Necco Wafers and Bazooka Bubble Gum – they tasted just like I remembered!
The staff was super friendly and helped me find some unique candies I’d never tried before. They even let me sample a few before buying. I ended up leaving with a bag full of goodies to share with friends.
While Cravin’s is known for candy, they also serve some tasty ice cream. I tried a scoop of their homemade vanilla, and it was creamy and delicious. It’s the perfect treat for a hot day in Bend.
Rating: 4.6 (217 reviews)
Location: 818 NW Wall St #2715, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 617-9866
Website: Visit Website
3. Goody’s Bend — Handmade Chocolate, Popcorn, Ice Cream & Candy
I love stepping into Goody’s Bend! The moment I open the door, I’m hit with the most amazing smells. The rich scent of chocolate mingles with the sweet aroma of freshly made waffle cones.
This place has been a local favorite since 1984, and I can see why. Their ice cream is creamy and delicious, with lots of fun flavors to choose from. I always have a hard time picking just one!
But Goody’s isn’t just about ice cream. They also make their own chocolates and popcorn. I tried their caramel corn on my last visit, and it was perfectly sweet and crunchy. Plus, I feel good knowing that $5 from every popcorn tin goes to support local schools.
The shop has such a friendly, nostalgic feel. I love watching families come in to share treats and make memories. It’s clear that Goody’s is more than just a dessert shop – it’s a beloved part of the Bend community.
Rating: 4.2 (356 reviews)
Location: 957 NW Wall St, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 389-5185
Website: Visit Website
4. Ben & Jerry’s
I recently stopped by Ben & Jerry’s in Bend, and it was a treat! The shop is located in the Old Mill District, making it a perfect spot to grab a cone while exploring the area.
The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of waffle cones and a colorful array of flavors. I couldn’t resist trying their famous Chunky Monkey in a waffle cone. The banana ice cream with fudge chunks and walnuts was creamy and packed with flavor.
What I love about this Ben & Jerry’s is that they offer some unique flavors you can’t find in grocery stores. I chatted with the friendly staff, who told me about their ice cream catering services for events. They even make custom ice cream cakes!
The shop has a fun, laid-back vibe that fits right in with Bend’s atmosphere. It’s open daily from noon, so it’s great for an afternoon pick-me-up or a late-night dessert run on weekends when they’re open until 9:30 PM.
Rating: 4.2 (311 reviews)
Location: 680 SW Powerhouse Dr, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 312-8115
Website: Visit Website
5. Hardy’s Hotwings, Burgers & Ice Cream
I recently stopped by Hardy’s and was pleasantly surprised by their ice cream selection. While they’re known for wings and burgers, their frozen treats are a hidden gem in Bend.
The ice cream flavors rotate regularly, so there’s always something new to try. I loved the creamy texture and generous portions. It’s the perfect cool-down after enjoying their spicy wings.
The staff was super friendly and let me sample a few flavors before I made my choice. I ended up with a scoop of rich chocolate and tangy raspberry swirl. It hit the spot on a warm Bend afternoon.
Hardy’s casual atmosphere makes it great for families or a quick treat. The prices are reasonable too. I’ll definitely be back to try more of their ice cream flavors soon.
Rating: 4.4 (592 reviews)
Location: 3081 N Hwy 97 #100, Bend, OR 97703
Contact: (541) 382-6962
The Culture of Ice Cream in Bend
Ice cream is a big deal in Bend, Oregon. I’ve noticed how much locals and visitors alike love their frozen treats. It’s not just about the taste – it’s a whole experience.
In the summer, you’ll see people lining up at popular ice cream shops all over town. Families, friends, and couples gather to enjoy a scoop or two together.
What I find really cool is how many unique flavors you can find here. Bend’s ice cream makers love to get creative. They often use local ingredients to make special flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
Some of my favorite ice cream moments in Bend include:
- Eating a cone while walking along the Deschutes River
- Trying a new flavor at a food truck festival
- Watching the sunset with friends and ice cream in Drake Park
Gelato places are becoming more popular too. It’s fun to see how this Italian treat is mixing with Bend’s laid-back vibe.
I’ve noticed that ice cream isn’t just a summer thing here. Even in winter, you’ll see brave souls enjoying a scoop after hitting the slopes.
Bend’s ice cream culture is all about community, creativity, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. It’s one of the things that makes this town so special to me.
Local Flavors and Ingredients
Ice cream shops in Bend, Oregon take pride in using fresh, local ingredients. They create unique flavors that capture the essence of the region. I’ve found some amazing taste experiences that showcase the best of what Bend has to offer.
Emphasis on Organic and Local Sourcing
Many Bend ice cream shops focus on using organic and locally sourced ingredients. I love how they partner with nearby farms and producers. This commitment to local sourcing means fresher flavors and support for the community.
Some shops use milk and cream from local dairies. Others feature fruits and nuts grown in Oregon. I’ve even tried ice cream made with locally roasted coffee beans. The result is a truly authentic Bend taste in every scoop.
This approach also allows for seasonal flavors. In summer, I enjoy berry-based ice creams. Fall brings pumpkin and apple varieties. It’s a delicious way to experience the changing seasons through ice cream.
Unique Flavor Creations
Bend’s ice cream shops are known for their creative flavors. I’ve discovered some amazing combinations that reflect local tastes and ingredients. These unique offerings set Bend apart from other ice cream destinations.
One shop I visited offers a lavender honey flavor made with local lavender. Another features a huckleberry ice cream using wild berries from nearby forests. I’ve even tried a “High Desert” flavor with sage and juniper – it really captures the essence of Central Oregon!
Some flavors draw inspiration from local craft beers and spirits. Think stout-flavored ice cream or marionberry whiskey swirl. These innovative creations showcase the area’s vibrant food and drink scene.
Seasonal Specials and Events
I love how Bend’s ice cream shops get creative with seasonal flavors and fun events.
It’s always exciting to see what they come up with each season!
In summer, I can’t resist trying the fresh berry sorbets and ice creams. Bonta Gelato often features local marionberries and huckleberries in their gelatos.
Yum!
Fall brings pumpkin spice everything, of course. But I’ve also enjoyed maple pecan and apple pie flavors that really capture autumn in Oregon.
For winter, peppermint and eggnog are classics. Some shops even do fun holiday cookie dough mix-ins.
It feels so festive!
Spring is all about light, fruity flavors. I’ve seen some shops do floral notes like lavender or rose too.
Many places host special events throughout the year:
- Ice cream socials
- Flavor creation contests
- Holiday parties
- Fundraisers for local causes
I always keep an eye out for free scoop days too.
It’s a great chance to try new flavors without breaking the bank.
Some shops partner with local breweries for beer-inspired ice creams. It’s such a fun combo that feels very “Bend”!
