Grindstone General Store

Grindstone General Store is a true cornerstone of the Port Austin community in Michigan's beautiful Thumb area. This beloved local spot has been serving residents and visitors alike for years, creating countless memories with its famously generous ice cream cones. While the community faced a difficult time with the fire that affected the original store, the spirit of Grindstone General Store remains strong. The proprietor is moving forward with a full rebuild, and in the meantime, continues to serve the same delicious, generously-sized cones from a temporary setup.

Locals and travelers who have fond memories of the old store will be happy to know that the tradition of "very big scoops" is alive and well. The temporary operation, run from a trailer with a shaded picnic area, ensures that you can still get your favorite treat and enjoy a moment of relaxation. This resilience and dedication to the community are what make Grindstone General Store more than just an ice cream shop; it’s a symbol of Port Austin's unwavering spirit. The store is a testament to the community's support and the owner's commitment to keeping this local institution alive.

The store’s history is deeply woven into the fabric of Port Austin. For many, a visit to Grindstone General Store has been a summer ritual for years. The anticipation of the full reopening in the summer of 2026 is high, and the community is eager to see the new chapter for this cherished landmark. Until then, the temporary location provides a perfect opportunity to support a local business that is working hard to come back stronger than ever.

Despite the temporary changes, the core of what makes this store special hasn't changed. The commitment to quality and the tradition of serving massive, delicious scoops of ice cream are still at the forefront of the business. It’s a place where you can feel the history and the hope for the future all at once.

You can find Grindstone General Store at 3206 Copeland Rd, Port Austin, MI 48467, USA. Located in the picturesque Grindstone City area, the store is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the Thumb. Its location is easily accessible from the main roads, making it a convenient stop whether you’re coming from Port Austin, Caseville, or simply taking a scenic drive along the coast.

The temporary setup is easy to spot, with a clear trailer and a welcoming shaded area with picnic tables. This thoughtful arrangement ensures that even while the main store is being rebuilt, customers have a comfortable place to sit and enjoy their treats. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, perfect for families and friends looking to take a break and enjoy a sweet moment together.

The store is a well-known spot in the community, so finding it is a breeze. The temporary location on Copeland Road keeps it right in the heart of the area it has served for so long, so you won’t have to go out of your way to get your favorite ice cream. The community is familiar with the temporary location and continues to show immense support.

Even with a slightly reduced flavor selection due to the temporary setup, Grindstone General Store is dedicated to providing a satisfying and delicious experience. The focus remains on the star of the show: their famous, generously-sized ice cream cones.

• Ice Cream Cones: The main attraction! The store is still serving the same "generous-sized cones" it has always been known for. These massive scoops are a fan favorite and a major reason why people keep coming back.

• A Variety of Flavors: While the selection may be slightly reduced temporarily, the store still offers a great variety of delicious ice cream flavors to choose from, ensuring there's something for everyone.

• Temporary Shaded Area: The current operation includes a temporary shaded area with picnic tables, providing a comfortable spot for customers to sit and enjoy their ice cream, even on the sunniest of days.

• Friendly Service: Based on customer reviews, the staff is known for being friendly and kind. The welcoming atmosphere is a key part of the experience, ensuring every visit is a pleasant one.

Grindstone General Store's popularity is built on a few key features that have made it a local legend.

• Generous-Sized Cones: This is the store's most famous feature. The sheer size of the scoops is what sets it apart from any other ice cream shop. As one customer noted, the "very big scoops" are a consistent highlight that makes every visit worthwhile.

• Resilience and Community Spirit: The fact that the store is operating from a temporary setup while rebuilding is a testament to its strong connection to the community. This dedication shows the owner's commitment to keeping the tradition alive, even in the face of adversity.

• Nostalgic Appeal: For many, a visit to Grindstone General Store is a trip down memory lane. The old-fashioned charm and the long-standing tradition of serving great ice cream make it a nostalgic and cherished place for many families in Michigan.

• Beautiful Location: Situated in Grindstone City, the store offers a perfect stop during a day of exploring the beautiful scenery of the Thumb. It's a great place to cool off after a day at the beach or a long drive.

Address: 3206 Copeland Rd, Port Austin, MI 48467, USA

Phone: (989) 738-6410

For the people of Port Austin and the wider Michigan community, Grindstone General Store is more than just a place to get ice cream—it’s a symbol of resilience and a cherished piece of local history. The commitment to rebuilding after the fire and the effort to continue serving customers from a temporary trailer show a deep dedication to the community. This is a place where locals can find comfort in tradition, knowing that their favorite spot is working hard to return better than ever.

The store's reputation for having "very big scoops" at a reasonable price makes it a beloved destination. It's the kind of place where a simple ice cream cone feels like a special event. The personal connections and memories formed here are what make it truly special for Michigan residents. As one customer mentioned, despite the fire, the hope that the store will "rebuild because so many people liked going there" shows the deep impact it has on the community.

By visiting the temporary setup, locals are not only getting a delicious treat, but they are also supporting a neighbor and a business that is a vital part of the area's identity. The anticipated full reopening in the summer of 2026 gives everyone something to look forward to. Until then, the temporary trailer is a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring spirit of this local landmark. This is a place where you're not just a customer; you're part of the Grindstone General Store family.

Grindstone General Store

3206 Copeland Rd, Port Austin, MI 48467, USA