🍦 Scoops of Bellingham: A Guide to the City’s Coolest Ice Cream Spots
1. Mallard Ice Cream – The Local Icon
If there’s one place that defines Bellingham’s ice cream culture, it’s Mallard Ice Cream on Railroad Avenue. Quirky, cozy, and unmistakably Bellingham, Mallard has been scooping happiness since the late ’90s. Known for their creative rotating flavors—think lavender, black sesame, jalapeño, or earl grey alongside classics like chocolate and cookies & cream—every visit feels like an adventure.
The vibe is pure local charm: colorful décor, community art on the walls, and staff who genuinely love the craft. Their commitment to small-batch, all-natural ingredients means flavors pop with intensity, whether it’s fresh berry in summer or spiced pumpkin in the fall. For many locals, Mallard isn’t just ice cream—it’s a ritual.
Must-try: Honey Lavender (when in season) or a double scoop of Chocolate + Espresso Flake.
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2. Edaleen Dairy
A Whatcom County staple, Edaleen’s Lynden roots stretch back decades. Their Bellingham shop keeps the tradition alive with classic American-style ice cream—rich, creamy, and generously scooped. The waffle cones here are massive, and the value is hard to beat.
Best for: Families and anyone craving a “just like childhood” cone.
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3. Pure Bliss Desserts (for their ice cream sandwiches)
Primarily a dessert bakery, Pure Bliss sneaks into the ice cream scene with killer ice cream sandwiches made with their famous cookies. It’s indulgent, decadent, and exactly what you want after dinner downtown.
Best for: Pairing dessert with a coffee or night out.
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4. Acme Ice Cream
Creamy, dense, and ultra-rich, Acme focuses on classic flavors done to perfection—think Bourbon Vanilla, Espresso Almond Fudge, and seasonal fruit blends. Their texture is almost gelato-like, making every bite intense and luxurious.
Best for: Purists who want flavor first, gimmick second.
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5. Lopez Island Creamery (via local shops)
Though based on Lopez, their pints and scoops are easy to find in Bellingham. Known for their all-natural island-made ice cream, Lopez Island Creamery delivers rustic, wholesome flavors like Lemon Custard and Fudge Brownie.
Best for: Supporting small PNW makers.
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6. The Woods Coffee (yes, really)
Better known for lattes, Woods offers their own ice cream creations and affogatos at some locations. It’s not the main attraction, but pairing a scoop with espresso is a Bellingham insider move.
Best for: Coffee + ice cream hybrids.
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7. Local Farmers Market Scoops
During market season, local makers sometimes roll out small-batch flavors using Whatcom-grown berries, honey, and herbs. These fleeting offerings are as Bellingham as it gets—community-based, seasonal, and always changing.
Best for: Adventurers who want the “you had to be there” flavors.
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🎯 Wrap-Up
Bellingham may be better known for its breweries and coffee, but its ice cream scene has carved out its own reputation: inventive, community-driven, and never boring. From the iconic Mallard to the hidden gems in cafés and markets, there’s always a reason to grab a cone by the bay.
