Papa T's Deckside

Welcome to Kelleys Island, Ohio, a cherished destination on Lake Erie known for its natural beauty and relaxed island lifestyle. For those exploring the island, a visit wouldn't be complete without a stop at Papa T's Deckside. This delightful establishment is a staple of the Kelleys Island experience, offering much more than just a sweet treat. It’s a place where you can unwind, enjoy the company of family and friends, and take in some of the most breathtaking views the lake has to offer.

Papa T's Deckside has established itself as a must-visit spot for both day-trippers and long-time residents of Kelleys Island. Its reputation is built on a foundation of quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. As a local business, it embodies the spirit of the island—friendly, laid-back, and focused on creating memorable moments. The delicious shakes and ice cream are a big draw, but the true value lies in the complete experience: the beautiful scenery, the kind people, and the perfect setting for a family outing.

The menu is a highlight, featuring over 50 flavors of Toft's hand-dipped ice cream, a beloved Ohio brand with a history stretching back over 120 years. This commitment to using high-quality, local products is something that Ohioans appreciate and trust. Beyond the hand-dipped options, Papa T's also offers a wide array of custom soft-serve flavors, shakes, and sundaes, ensuring there’s something for every preference. The menu even extends to savory options, like tasty grilled hot dogs on the deck, making it an ideal spot for a light lunch or dinner before indulging in dessert.

What truly sets Papa T's Deckside apart is its atmosphere. Located on the waterfront, the deck provides a great vantage point for a panoramic view of Lake Erie. This unique feature makes it a popular spot, especially during the evening. As one customer noted, the view of the lake is particularly great during "sunset hours." It’s an ideal place to gather with loved ones, share stories, and simply enjoy the tranquility and beauty of an Ohio sunset over the water. This combination of delicious food and a stunning natural backdrop creates an experience that is deeply satisfying and quintessentially Kelleys Island.

The welcoming nature of the staff is another reason for Papa T's popularity. As a reviewer mentioned, the people are "super nice," which makes a significant difference in the overall customer experience. This kind and helpful service, combined with a pet-friendly policy that even includes special "pup cups" for dogs, makes Papa T's a truly inclusive place for the whole family, including the furry members. It’s a spot where you can bring your dog along for a treat and feel completely at ease, which is a big plus for many Ohio residents who travel with their pets.

In essence, Papa T's Deckside isn't just an ice cream shop; it's an integral part of the Kelleys Island lifestyle. It's the perfect place to conclude a day of exploring the island’s natural wonders, from the Glacial Grooves to the State Park. It offers a sense of community and relaxation that is hard to find in a fast-paced world. For anyone seeking a break from the everyday, a trip to this charming spot provides a refreshing dose of delicious ice cream, friendly faces, and one of the best views in Ohio.

Papa T's Deckside is situated at 418 Woodford Rd, Kelleys Island, OH 43438, USA. As Kelleys Island is only accessible by ferry, getting here is part of the adventure. The shop is conveniently located near other popular spots like Kelleys Landing, making it a great stop after a day of activities. Once on the island, golf carts and bicycles are the most common modes of transportation, and the shop is easily accessible regardless of how you choose to get around. Its prime location next to the water ensures that the stunning lake view is always a part of the experience.

• Toft's Hand-Dipped Ice Cream: Offering over 50 flavors of locally-sourced Toft's ice cream, a beloved Ohio classic.
• Delicious Shakes: A wide variety of shakes and malts made to order.
• Custom Soft-Serve: Enjoy a selection of over 40 soft-serve flavors, allowing for endless custom combinations.
• Sundaes and Desserts: An extensive menu of sundaes with various toppings to satisfy any craving.
• Savory Food Items: Offering grilled "weekend" hot dogs and fries for those looking for a savory meal before their sweet treat.
• "Pup Cups": A special treat for your four-legged friends, making it a truly pet-friendly destination.

• Spectacular Lake View: The deck provides a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a great view of Lake Erie, especially during sunset.
• Family and Pet-Friendly Environment: A welcoming atmosphere for all members of the family, including dogs.
• High-Quality Local Ingredients: Features Toft's ice cream, a well-regarded Ohio brand, ensuring a delicious and authentic taste.
• Friendly and Welcoming Staff: Customers consistently praise the "super nice" and helpful people who run the shop.
• Central Island Location: Conveniently situated on Kelleys Island, making it an easy and accessible stop for anyone exploring the area.
• Seasonal Charm: Operates seasonally from late spring to early fall, contributing to the island's unique and highly anticipated seasonal rhythm.

Address: 418 Woodford Rd, Kelleys Island, OH 43438, USA

Phone: (330) 221-7033

You can also find them on the Kelleys Island Chamber of Commerce website for more information on hours and offerings.

For those living in or visiting Ohio, Papa T's Deckside is the quintessential Kelleys Island experience. Its location and commitment to creating a welcoming environment make it an ideal place for locals to enjoy a simple pleasure. Whether you’ve just gotten off the ferry or are a long-time islander, this spot is perfect for a family gathering, a casual date, or just a moment of peace to watch the sunset. The combination of delicious Toft's ice cream, a stunning waterfront deck, and a genuinely friendly atmosphere makes Papa T's Deckside a perfect local haunt. It’s a place where you’re not just a customer, but part of the community, and that is why it’s so suitable and cherished by locals and visitors alike.

Papa T's Deckside

418 Woodford Rd, Kelleys Island, OH 43438, USA