I love ice cream, and Eugene, Oregon has some amazing spots to satisfy any sweet tooth. From old-fashioned parlors to trendy new shops, this city has a lot to offer ice cream fans like me.
Eugene’s top ice cream shops serve up creamy, delicious scoops in fun flavors that will make your taste buds dance. I’m excited to share my picks for the 5 best places to grab a cone or cup of this frozen treat.
Whether you prefer classic vanilla or daring new combinations, these local favorites have something for everyone.
1. Prince Puckler’s Ice Cream
I recently visited Prince Puckler’s Ice Cream and was blown away by their amazing flavors. This local gem has been serving up scoops since 1975, and it’s easy to see why they’ve been so popular for decades.
Their ice cream is handmade right in Eugene using local ingredients. I tried their famous Muddy River flavor and it was absolutely delicious. They have over 40 flavors to choose from, including dairy-free options like sorbet.
One cool fact I learned is that Barack and Michelle Obama stopped by here in 2008 during the presidential campaign. Barack ordered Mint Chip, which is now unofficially called “Obama” by many customers. I had to try it too and it was so refreshing!
The shop has a friendly, laid-back vibe that made me feel right at home. I can see why both locals and visitors keep coming back for more of Prince Puckler’s delicious ice cream.
Rating: 4.7 (1100 reviews)
Location: 1605 E 19th Ave, Eugene, OR 97403
Contact: (541) 344-4418
Website: Visit Website
2. Peek-A-Boo Delight
I recently visited Peek-A-Boo Delight, and I was blown away by their ice cream. The shop is on Willamette Street in downtown Eugene, making it easy to find.
When I stepped inside, I was greeted by a cheerful staff member who helped me pick out a flavor. They have so many options, it was hard to choose! I ended up trying their signature “Peek-A-Boo” flavor, which was amazing.
The ice cream was creamy and rich, with just the right amount of sweetness. I loved how they use fresh, local ingredients in their flavors. It really makes a difference in the taste.
I also noticed how clean and cozy the shop was. It’s a great place to sit and enjoy your ice cream, or you can take it to go if you’re in a hurry. I can’t wait to go back and try more flavors!
Rating: 4.9 (77 reviews)
Location: 861 Willamette St, Eugene, OR 97401
3. Salt & Straw
I recently visited Salt & Straw in Eugene, and I was blown away by their unique ice cream flavors. This Portland-based shop has brought its creative flair to Oakway Road, offering a taste experience like no other.
When I walked in, I was greeted by friendly staff who were eager to let me sample their monthly rotating flavors. I tried their Chocolatiers Series, which reimagines classic chocolate box flavors in ice cream form. It was a delightful twist on familiar tastes.
What sets Salt & Straw apart is their commitment to using local ingredients. They craft their ice cream in small batches, ensuring each scoop is fresh and full of flavor. I loved how they push the boundaries of what ice cream can be, with unexpected combinations that somehow work perfectly.
Rating: 4.6 (345 reviews)
Location: 139 Oakway Rd B, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (541) 521-7708
Website: Visit Website
4. Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
I recently visited Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream in Eugene and was blown away by their amazing selection. They have over 40 flavors of ice cream, gelato, and sorbet made fresh daily on-site.
I tried their signature Buckeye flavor – peanut butter ice cream with fudge ripple and buckeye candy pieces. It was absolutely delicious! The ice cream was creamy and packed with flavor.
The staff was super friendly and let me sample a few flavors before deciding. I loved that they offer both classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate as well as unique options like Blue Monster and Graham Central Station.
Handel’s is located in a small strip mall, but don’t let that fool you. The quality of their homemade ice cream rivals any gourmet shop I’ve been to. I can’t wait to go back and try more of their rotating seasonal flavors.
Rating: 4.5 (351 reviews)
Location: 550 Pearl St Unit 110, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (541) 735-3150
Website: Visit Website
5. Sweet Life Patisserie
I can’t get enough of Sweet Life Patisserie! This charming bakery is a dessert lover’s paradise. When I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly baked treats filled the air, making my mouth water instantly.
Their ice cream selection is fantastic. I tried a scoop of their seasonal flavor, and it was creamy and bursting with flavor. The best part? They offer dairy-free options too, so everyone can enjoy a cool treat.
What sets Sweet Life apart is their commitment to quality. Everything is made from scratch using traditional recipes. I spotted cakes, pies, tarts, and cookies in their display cases. It’s hard to choose just one dessert!
The atmosphere is lively and welcoming. I love coming here on weekend evenings when it’s bustling with happy customers. The staff is always friendly and helpful, guiding me through their tempting array of sweets.
Rating: 4.7 (3200 reviews)
Location: 755 Monroe St, Eugene, OR 97402
Contact: (541) 683-5676
Website: Visit Website
Why Eugene Oregon Is an Ice Cream Lover’s Paradise
Eugene is a dream come true for ice cream fans like me. I’ve found amazing flavors and quality ingredients that make this city’s ice cream scene truly special.
Local Ingredients
Eugene’s ice cream shops take pride in using local ingredients. I love how Prince Puckler’s Gourmet Ice Cream sources fresh berries from nearby farms. The taste is incredible!
Many shops partner with local dairies for the freshest cream and milk. This gives the ice cream a rich, smooth texture I can’t get enough of.
I’ve even seen shops using local herbs and flowers in unique flavors. Lavender ice cream made with blooms from a Eugene lavender farm? Yes, please!
Community Favorites
Eugene’s ice cream shops have built loyal followings. I always see long lines at Salt & Straw, especially on warm summer nights.
Locals rave about Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream. Their generous portions and creative flavors keep customers coming back.
I love how these shops get involved in the community too. Many host fundraisers or donate to local causes. It makes enjoying their ice cream even sweeter.
Some shops have become Eugene institutions. Prince Puckler’s has been serving scoops since 1975! That kind of history creates a special bond with ice cream lovers like me.
Unique Flavors to Try
Eugene’s ice cream shops offer a wide range of exciting flavors. I’ve found some amazing options that are sure to surprise and delight your taste buds.
Seasonal Specials
Salt & Straw always has new flavors to try. I love their rotating monthly specials that use local ingredients.
In the fall, I’ve enjoyed pumpkin spice and apple cider flavors. During summer, I can’t resist their fresh berry sorbets. They capture the essence of Oregon’s fruit perfectly.
Some shops create flavors inspired by local events. I once had a “Track Town USA” flavor during a big track meet. It was a mix of chocolate, caramel, and crunchy bits.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Options
I’m amazed at how many dairy-free choices there are now. Prince Puckler’s has coconut milk-based flavors that are super creamy.
My favorite is their vegan chocolate almond. It’s rich and satisfying. They also have fruit sorbets that are naturally dairy-free.
For those avoiding soy, I’ve found cashew-based ice creams at some shops. These have a unique, nutty flavor that I really enjoy.
Even traditional shops are adding vegan options. I’ve seen oat milk and almond milk flavors becoming more common.
The History of Ice Cream in Eugene
Ice cream has been a beloved treat in Eugene for decades. The city’s ice cream scene really took off in the 1970s. That’s when local entrepreneurs started opening shops with unique flavors and homemade recipes.
One of the earliest and most famous shops is Prince Puckler’s. They opened in 1975 and quickly became a local favorite. I love how they’ve stuck to their traditional methods all these years.
In the 1980s and 1990s, more ice cream shops popped up around Eugene. Each brought its own flair to the frozen dessert world. Some focused on organic ingredients, while others experimented with unusual flavor combinations.
The 2000s saw a boom in artisanal ice cream. Small-batch producers started using local ingredients to create unique flavors. This trend reflected Eugene’s growing foodie culture and love for all things local.
Today, Eugene’s ice cream scene is thriving. We have a mix of old-school parlors and modern creameries. I’m always amazed by the variety of flavors and styles available.
From classic vanilla to adventurous flavors like lavender honey, there’s something for everyone.
Ice cream has become more than just a treat in Eugene. It’s a part of our community culture. On hot summer days, you’ll find locals lining up at their favorite spots. It’s a delicious way to cool down and enjoy our city’s creative spirit.
