It’s no secret that last summer was hot. All over the country, we witnessed record-breaking temperatures that resulted in fires and frozen AC units alike. I’m all about the beach, but when seawater feels like a warm bath—ugh. Gross.

Fortunately, in my sweltering state, I had a marvelous idea: ice cream.

Nothing turns a scorchingly hot day around like a cup or cone of frozen serotonin. If I were stranded in the Sahara, you wouldn’t find me running toward a distant mirage. Like, forget water. If it’s 100+ degrees, the only thing I’m hallucinating about is ice cream. Preferably a good old-fashioned vanilla.

If you plan to be in the Bridgewater area this summer, you’re in luck. We have some of the best local ice cream shops to keep you cool all season long.

One of my favorite spots is Hornstra Farms in Whitman. They’ve been in business for over a century—and for good reason. Their farm-fresh milk makes incredible ice cream (cow tracks is my favorite flavor, hands down), and their customer service is outstanding. Plus, everything from their milk to their butter is minimally pasteurized, just as nature intended. When eating ice cream is good for your gut health, how can you say no?!

Just outside Bridgewater, we have another scoop of frozen heaven: Frankie & Dia’s. Located in Raynham, they serve Crescent Ridge Ice Cream (churned over in Sharon, MA), including dairy-free options, sherbet, and frozen yogurt. They’re also mindful of nut, gluten, and egg allergies, so don’t be afraid to ask about their flavors! This is honestly one of my favorite places to bring the whole family. Besides ice cream, they have board games and corn hole, so you can turn your outing into a whole *event.*

For those who love sweet treats of all sorts, I got you. You’ll love Skinner’s Sugar House, a local spot in East Bridgewater. Besides ice cream, they also serve frozen yogurt, candy, nut clusters, truffles, fudge, and more. It’s every kid’s dream in there (and kids at heart will enjoy it, too).

And finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Joyful Scoops, my favorite little spot in Middleboro. Their flavors are always a hit (two words: maple walnut), and even if you’re not in the mood for ice cream, you can’t leave without a whoopie pie. They’re the real-deal Maine variety, and OMG. You will never eat a store-bought whoopie pie ever again.

For the record, this is not an ad. I’m just a long-time Bridgewater resident and a local realtor who loves her community (and ice cream). Stop by any one of these shops and say hello, and let me know if there’s another local place I should check out. You know, for research purposes.