- Attraction: Velvet Ice Cream
- Location: 11324 Mt Vernon Rd, Utica, OH 43080
- Industry: Ice Cream Factory
- Website: https://velveticecream.com
Four generations of the Dager family have been crafting premium ice cream since 1914, and their historic home at Ye Olde Mill tells a story that’s as rich as their signature flavors.
This isn’t just an ice cream destination – it’s Ohio’s only ice cream museum housed in an 1817 grist mill that once served as part of the Underground Railroad.
Drawing over 150,000 visitors annually, Velvet Ice Cream combines sweet treats with fascinating history across 20 acres of picturesque rolling hills.
Ice Cream Excellence
Premium Quality: Made with Midwest cream and available in 50 different flavors, every scoop represents over a century of ice cream perfection. The mocha chip consistently earns rave reviews for its incredible depth of flavor.
Signature Creations: Don’t miss the famous Buckeye Brownie Sundae, which combines Ohio’s beloved buckeye flavor with rich brownie chunks in an indulgent sundae that defines decadence.
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Keep Exploring →Generous Portions: Order a “2 dip” and you’ll receive what they call a “little boat of ice cream” – portions that are notably more generous than typical ice cream shops.
Annual Flavor Debut: Each year brings a new flavor unveiled at the state fair, keeping the menu fresh and giving regular visitors something exciting to anticipate.
Factory Tours & Museum
Free Factory Tours: Available weekdays 11am-3pm from May through October, these 30-minute tours feature live production viewing most days. You’ll watch the modern ice cream-making process through viewing gallery windows.
Ice Cream Museum: Ohio’s only ice cream museum showcases 110 years of Velvet history, ice cream artifacts, and the fascinating story of the Dager family’s commitment to quality.
Historic Mill Story: Learn how Ye Olde Mill served as part of the Underground Railroad and discover other historical tidbits that make this location truly special.
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Discover MoreEducational Experience: The tour includes vintage ice cream-making equipment demonstrations and explanations of how production methods have evolved over the decades.
Historic Setting & Amenities
Ye Olde Mill Restaurant: The turn-of-the-century ice cream parlor restaurant serves complete meals alongside their famous ice cream, with decent burgers and excellent desserts.
Nature Trails: Walk off your ice cream indulgence on scenic nature trails that wind through the property’s beautiful landscape.
Mill Pond & Ducks: The famous Mill ducks provide entertainment for visitors of all ages, and the pond setting creates a peaceful atmosphere perfect for family photos.
Playground & Picnic Areas: Three shelter houses accommodate groups from 50-150 people, while playground facilities and open green spaces make it ideal for family gatherings.
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Keep Exploring →Special Events & Activities
Utica Ice Cream Festival: The famous Memorial Day Weekend festival is 49 years strong, featuring live music, food trucks, craft vendors, and horse & carriage rides.
Saturday & Sunday Entertainment: Regular weekend programming includes live musical entertainment during the summer season.
Y on the Fly Program: Free outdoor activities and exercise programs for kids every Wednesday from June through July, hosted by the YMCA.
Doggie Days: Special events every third Thursday during summer welcome four-legged visitors with free pup cups and dog-related merchandise.
Atmosphere & Experience
Family Legacy: The visible presence of four generations working together creates an authentic family business atmosphere that chain competitors can’t replicate.
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Discover MoreHistoric Charm: The 1817 mill building provides incredible character and photo opportunities that make your visit memorable beyond just the ice cream.
Gift Shop & Candy Store: Browse unique souvenirs and specialty items that let you take a piece of the experience home.
Other Considerations
Seasonal Operation: Open Tuesday-Sunday (closed Mondays) 11am-7pm from May through October, with kitchen service until 6:30pm. Always verify hours before visiting.
Premium Pricing: Ice cream is on the pricier side, but the quality, portion sizes, and unique experience justify the cost for most visitors.
Service Variables: Staff consists largely of seasonal student workers, so service quality can vary, though the management team maintains high standards.
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Keep Exploring →Parking & Accessibility: Ample parking and well-maintained facilities accommodate visitors of all mobility levels, making it genuinely family-friendly.
No Free Samples: Unlike some factory tours, don’t expect free ice cream at the end – but the experience and quality make the purchase worthwhile.
Velvet Ice Cream
📍 11324 Mt Vernon Rd, Utica, OH 43080
