Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor & Cafe

Nestled in the heart of America's Greatest Family Resort, Ocean City, New Jersey, you'll find a true local gem: Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor & Cafe. For New Jersey residents, especially those who frequent the shores of Ocean City, Hobby Horse isn't just an ice cream shop; it's a cherished part of summer traditions and year-round delights. Operating since the summer of 1994, this charming establishment has proudly offered a delightful taste of nostalgia and delectable frozen treats, all wrapped in a welcoming ambiance that makes every visit a pleasure.

Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor & Cafe has built a reputation for its wide variety of flavors, sundaes, and treats, ensuring there's something to satisfy every craving. What truly sets this place apart is its unwavering commitment to providing a high-quality, enjoyable experience for all ages. From classic scoops to their famous signature sundaes, each item is crafted to bring a smile to your face. Even with its consistent popularity, often evidenced by a lively line of eager customers, the general consensus is that the wait is always worth it for the delicious rewards inside.

Beyond the sweet offerings, Hobby Horse embodies the spirit of a true local business. It's a family-owned operation deeply rooted in the Ocean City community, aspiring to continue scooping for generations to come. This dedication to family values and customer satisfaction creates an atmosphere that feels both professional and incredibly friendly. When you step into Hobby Horse, you're not just buying ice cream; you're becoming a part of a local legacy, enjoying a treat that has delighted countless visitors and residents for decades. It's the perfect spot to create new memories while relishing in the timeless joy of ice cream.

Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor & Cafe is ideally situated at 800 Ocean Ave, Ocean City, NJ 08226, USA. This prime location places it right at the corner of 8th Street and Ocean Avenue, a bustling and easily recognizable intersection in Ocean City. Its proximity to both the iconic boardwalk and the beautiful beaches makes it an incredibly convenient stop for anyone enjoying a day out in this popular shore town. Whether you're wrapping up a sunny afternoon on the sand, strolling along the boardwalk with family, or simply exploring the vibrant downtown area, Hobby Horse is just a short walk away.

The accessibility of Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor is a significant advantage for locals and visitors alike. Ocean Avenue is a main thoroughfare, making it simple to find for those driving. While parking in Ocean City can be a consideration during peak season, there are often metered street parking options and public lots within a reasonable distance. The inviting exterior, often featuring the iconic carousel horse that has been a staple on this corner since the early 1910s, helps guide visitors right to its doorstep. The lively outdoor seating area with benches further enhances its welcoming presence, offering a comfortable spot to enjoy your treats while soaking in the lively Ocean City atmosphere. Even with its popularity leading to occasional lines, the ease of finding and reaching Hobby Horse ensures that getting your ice cream fix is a breeze.

• Wide Variety of Ice Cream Flavors: Hobby Horse offers an extensive selection of ice cream flavors, catering to all preferences, from classic favorites to unique creations. This ensures there's always something new to try or a beloved flavor to return to.
• Signature Sundaes: They are renowned for their fabulous signature sundaes, which are highly praised by customers. Options like "Duke's Famous Banana Split," "Peanut Butter Bliss," "Oreo Delight," and "Michael's Carousel Waffle" are popular choices.
• Diverse Treat Options: Beyond scoops and sundaes, Hobby Horse provides a range of other delightful treats, including various cones (waffle, pretzel, chocolate chip cookie), ice cream sodas, floats, milkshakes, and delicious homemade peanut butter balls.
• Takeout and Counter Service: The parlor offers convenient takeout and counter service, making it easy to grab your favorite treat on the go or enjoy it at their outdoor seating.
• Indoor and Outdoor Seating: There is a cute seating area with benches outside, perfect for enjoying your ice cream in the fresh air. Indoor seating is also available, providing a comfortable space regardless of the weather.
• Cafe Offerings: In addition to ice cream, Hobby Horse operates as a cafe, indicating they likely offer coffee and other beverages, perfect for those seeking more than just a sweet treat.

• Family-Owned and Operated Since 1994: Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor has been a family-owned business since 1994. This long-standing presence in Ocean City highlights its deep community roots and commitment to consistent quality.
• Iconic Carousel Horse: The shop's name and theme are inspired by an iconic carousel horse that has been a fixture on the corner of 8th and Ocean since the early 1910s. This whimsical element adds to its charm and provides a nostalgic backdrop for visitors.
• Delicious and Reasonably Priced: Customers consistently praise the deliciousness of their offerings and note the reasonable prices, making it an excellent value for the quality and portion sizes.
• Wide Selection of Toppings and Cones: The extensive selection of toppings and various cone options (cake, sugar, waffle, cookie, pretzel) allows for highly customizable ice cream creations, catering to individual tastes.
• Quick and Professional Service: Despite often having long lines, the service at Hobby Horse is consistently described as quick and professional, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience for customers even during busy times.
• Popular Monster Cookie: While not homemade, their monster cookie is a fan favorite, often enjoyed alongside their ice cream.
• Open Year-Round (Extended Weekends in Winter): Unlike some seasonal boardwalk establishments, Hobby Horse often remains open year-round, operating on extended weekends through the winter and full-time in the summer, making it a reliable local spot.

Address: 800 Ocean Ave, Ocean City, NJ 08226, USA

Phone: (609) 399-1214

Mobile Phone: +1 609-399-1214

For anyone living in New Jersey, particularly those who frequent or reside in Ocean City, Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor & Cafe is more than just a place to get dessert; it's a cherished community institution. Its status as a family-owned and operated business since 1994 gives it a deep connection to the local fabric, fostering a sense of familiarity and trust that resonates strongly with residents. This long-standing presence means generations of local families have grown up with Hobby Horse as a part of their summer traditions and weekend outings.

The consistent quality of their ice cream, the wide array of flavors, and the creativity of their signature sundaes ensure that there's always something new to explore while still providing the comforting favorites. Locals appreciate the value they receive, noting the reasonable prices for generous, delicious treats. Even when there's a line, the efficient and friendly service ensures that the wait is manageable and the reward is always worthwhile. The iconic carousel horse and the inviting outdoor seating area contribute to a classic, wholesome atmosphere that perfectly embodies the charm of Ocean City.

Beyond the delicious products, Hobby Horse offers a reliable, family-friendly environment where locals can create lasting memories. Its convenient location near the beach and boardwalk makes it a natural gathering spot, easy to pop into after a day in the sun or for an evening stroll. The fact that they often remain open year-round, even if on extended weekends during the off-season, further cements its role as a consistent local amenity. For New Jersey residents seeking a dependable, high-quality ice cream experience steeped in local tradition and community spirit, Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor & Cafe is an undisputed favorite and a true Ocean City gem.

Hobby Horse Ice Cream Parlor & Cafe

800 Ocean Ave, Ocean City, NJ 08226, USA