- Attraction: The Parlour of Jackson
- Location: 1401 Daniel Rd, Jackson, MI 49202
- Industry: Ice Cream Shop
- Website: Facebook Page
Since 1933, this Jackson landmark has been serving up memories one massive scoop at a time.
What started as Loud & Jackson evolved into Jackson All Star Dairy before becoming The Parlour in the 1970s, but one thing has remained constant – their commitment to serving ice cream portions that defy belief.
You’ll find yourself transported back to the golden age of American diners, complete with U-shaped counters, red vinyl booths, and the sweet aroma of homemade hot fudge that’s been crafted the same way for over 30 years.
The Parlour earned its reputation as a national icon by doing one thing exceptionally well: making every visit feel like a special occasion.
With over 40 hand-dipped ice cream flavors sourced exclusively from Michigan dairies, this isn’t just another ice cream shop – it’s a destination that draws visitors from neighboring states who plan entire trips around these legendary treats.
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Keep Exploring →Ice Cream That Defies Belief
The Famous Softball Scoops: When The Parlour promises softball-sized scoops, they deliver exactly that. You’ll receive ice cream portions so generous that a single scoop overflows large sundae glasses, and cones come served in bowls with the cone placed on top because there’s simply no other way to handle the volume. Many visitors discover that one scoop easily serves two people, making it an incredible value despite the premium pricing.
The Dare To Be Great Challenge: This legendary sundae features 21 scoops of hand-dipped ice cream topped with nuts, syrup, and mountains of whipped cream. You’ll have one hour to conquer this $89.99 frozen mountain, and success earns you a free meal, t-shirt, and your name on the Wall of Fame. Few have succeeded, but the spectacle of watching attempts draws crowds and creates unforgettable family memories.
Michigan Dairy Excellence: You’ll taste the difference that quality makes with every spoonful. The ice cream comes from local Michigan dairies, offering rich, creamy textures that rival premium brands. Popular flavors include birthday cake, cookie dough, and Michigan deer tracks, though adventurous visitors often request tastings to explore the extensive flavor selection.
Signature Hot Fudge: The homemade hot fudge has been perfected over three decades, creating a silky, decadent sauce that complements rather than overwhelms the ice cream. You’ll find it generously drizzled over sundaes, parfaits, and cream puffs, adding warmth and richness to every frozen creation.
Classic American Dining Experience
Nostalgic Atmosphere: You’ll step into a perfectly preserved slice of 1950s Americana, complete with classic diner seating arrangements and vintage touches throughout. The U-shaped counters create an intimate dining experience where you can watch ice cream artisans craft your order, while booths provide comfortable family seating for larger groups.
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Discover MoreAll-American Menu: Beyond ice cream, you’ll discover hearty comfort food including Jackson’s original coney dogs topped with finely diced onions and special coney sauce. The seasoned fries, homemade chili cheese fries, and classic burgers provide satisfying meal options, though most visitors save room for the main attraction.
Family-Friendly Entertainment: You’ll appreciate the relaxed pace that encourages lingering and conversation. The environment welcomes children with open arms, and the generous portions often become shared experiences as families tackle oversized sundaes together.
Other Considerations
Generous Value Pricing: You’ll find the pricing reflects the exceptional portion sizes rather than typical ice cream shop standards. While individual scoops cost more than franchise locations, the softball-sized servings essentially provide multiple scoops worth of ice cream, making it surprisingly economical for the quantity received.
Wait Times and Patience: You should expect crowds, especially during peak times and weekends. The handcrafted nature of each order means wait times can extend 20-30 minutes during busy periods, but watching the preparation process becomes part of the entertainment.
Parking and Accessibility: You’ll find ample parking in the dedicated lot, making visits convenient for families and larger groups. The location on Daniel Road provides easy access from major Jackson thoroughfares.
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Keep Exploring →Best Visiting Strategy: You’ll want to arrive hungry but not overly full, as the portions can easily replace an entire meal. Consider sharing items, especially if you’re new to The Parlour experience, and don’t hesitate to ask for flavor samples before committing to your selection.
Seasonal Considerations: You’ll discover this is a year-round destination, though summer naturally brings the heaviest crowds. The indoor seating makes it comfortable regardless of Michigan weather, and the nostalgic atmosphere feels especially cozy during colder months.
The Parlour of Jackson
📍 1401 Daniel Rd, Jackson, MI 49202
