Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe

jones' homemade ice cream shoppe baldwin menu

For residents of Baldwin and visitors exploring the beautiful Pere Marquette State Forest and northern Michigan, there’s a sweet destination that has been a local institution for generations: Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe. Tucked away on Michigan Avenue, this charming shop is more than just a place to get a scoop; it's a step back in time. With a history stretching back to 1942, Jones' has been serving up rich, creamy homemade ice cream for over 80 years, becoming a treasured part of the community's heritage. The shop’s old-fashioned feel, complete with nostalgic decor and a friendly atmosphere, creates a unique experience that is hard to find anywhere else. As one customer beautifully put it, it's a "historical gem of an ice cream shoppe," a place that evokes cherished memories and is worth the trip to share with a new generation. This article is a guide for locals and visitors alike, exploring the unique character of Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe and all that it has to offer, from its delicious homemade treats to its deep connection to the Baldwin community.

The enduring appeal of Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe lies in its authenticity. In an age of large chains and mass-produced desserts, this establishment stands out for its commitment to the homemade tradition. The ice cream is made on-site using a small-batch process, ensuring a quality and flavor that is distinctively rich and fresh. This dedication to craft is what keeps generations of families coming back. One reviewer's story of visiting the shop with their grandmother in the '80s and then bringing their own son back decades later perfectly illustrates the shop's legacy and its role as a keeper of cherished memories. This is the kind of place where a simple ice cream cone can carry a lifetime of history. The shop's charm is further enhanced by its atmosphere, with walls adorned with historical photos and local memorabilia that tell the story of Baldwin and the surrounding area. It's an ice cream parlor and a mini-museum all in one, making a visit both delicious and educational.

Beyond the ice cream itself, the staff at Jones' contributes significantly to the overall experience. While some might be concerned about "a bunch of kids working" at the shop, a local review clarifies that "one of the owners works there with them" and the service is "not as bad as some of the reviews make it out to be." This insight highlights the community-minded, family-run nature of the business. The staff is often described as friendly and courteous, creating a warm and welcoming environment for every customer. The enthusiasm of the younger employees, guided by an owner's presence, adds to the shop's character and makes it a lively place to visit. This combination of a top-quality product, a nostalgic atmosphere, and great service ensures that Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe remains a beloved fixture in the Baldwin community.

Location and Accessibility

Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe is located at 858 Michigan Ave, Baldwin, MI 49304, USA. This central location in downtown Baldwin makes it a highly accessible spot for both local residents and tourists passing through. Baldwin is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly for fishing and recreation on the Pere Marquette River, and Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe is a perfect stop after a day of enjoying nature. The shop's location on a main thoroughfare makes it easy to find, and it's a well-known landmark in the area. Parking is generally available, and the small-town setting makes it a pleasant and low-stress destination. The accessibility of the shop ensures that it is a convenient treat for anyone visiting the area, whether they are on a day trip or a week-long vacation.

Services Offered

Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe provides a classic ice cream parlor experience with a focus on homemade quality and variety.

• Homemade Ice Cream: The shop's main offering is its homemade ice cream, which is made on-site in small batches. They feature a variety of flavors, including classics like butter pecan, lemon custard, and chocolate, as well as unique flavors like black cherry and blue moon.
• Specialty Desserts: Beyond a simple scoop, the menu includes specialty items like sundaes, malts, shakes, and old-fashioned sodas. Popular options include the waffle bowl sundae and the brown sundae, which customers have praised for being "delicious" and "worth the money."
• Savory Snacks: In addition to the sweet treats, Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe also offers a selection of light food items, such as wraps, sandwiches, and hot dogs, which makes it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner followed by dessert.
• Takeout: Customers can enjoy their treats at the shop's outdoor seating or take them to go.

Features and Highlights

What makes Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe a standout destination are its unique features and highlights that set it apart from other ice cream places.

• Rich History and Nostalgic Atmosphere: The shop has been in operation since 1942, and its interior is a tribute to that history. The walls are lined with historical photos and local memorabilia, creating a vintage-inspired vibe that customers love. This historical context makes a visit to the shop feel like a special event.
• Handmade Waffle Cones: The shop is known for its freshly made, hand-rolled waffle cones, which fill the air with a sweet aroma and are a delicious complement to any scoop of ice cream.
• Homemade Quality: The commitment to making their own ice cream in-house ensures a fresh, rich, and creamy product that customers consistently rave about.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The shop is a great place for families, with a casual atmosphere and outdoor seating where you can enjoy your treat and the small-town charm of Baldwin. The staff, which often includes local teenagers, adds to this community-focused, family-friendly feel.
• Signature Items: The "waffle bowl sundae" and the "brown sundae" are highlighted by customers as delicious and highly recommended choices, showing the shop's ability to create memorable and satisfying desserts.

Contact Information

For those in the Baldwin, MI area looking to visit or get in touch with Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 858 Michigan Ave, Baldwin, MI 49304, USA

Phone: (231) 745-3591

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For the people of Baldwin and the wider northern Michigan region, Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe is a cherished local treasure. Its decades-long history and commitment to homemade quality make it a source of community pride and a place where traditions are passed down from one generation to the next. The shop's location in the heart of downtown Baldwin makes it an easy and convenient stop, perfectly situated for a treat after a day of enjoying the area's natural beauty.

What truly makes this place suitable for locals is its authentic character. It is not just an ice cream shop; it is a living part of the community's story. The combination of a delicious, homemade product with a friendly, nostalgic atmosphere creates an experience that is both unique and deeply satisfying. Even with a staff of local kids, the owner's presence and the overall positive vibe ensure that every customer feels welcome and well-served. For any Michigander looking for a true taste of local history and a perfect scoop of homemade ice cream, Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe is an essential stop.

Jones' Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe

858 Michigan Ave, Baldwin, MI 49304, USA