Since the dog days of summer have officially arrived, nothing sounds better on a hot summer day than ice cream. If your crew is screaming for ice cream too, then hop over the border (the Illinois/Wisconsin border that is) for a quick trip to the brand new Hansen’s Ice Cream Parlor in Wilmot, Wisconsin.
Opened by Adam and Kelly Hansen, who literally live across the street, it’s always been their dream to own their own business. And, as Adam says, “Why not open a business that makes people happy?” Seventy years ago, their shop used to be the local soda fountain. Now, with immense community and family support, they have turned a dilapidated building into a rustic yet chic ice cream parlor. Kelly’s dad painted the paintings on the walls, Adam’s mom made the tables, Kelly and her daughter stained and installed the shiplap, and at any time you can usually find any or all of their family behind the counter.
This little ice cream parlor has developed some serious addicts in the short time it’s been open. Customers are coming from as far as Chicago and Rockford for generous scoops of locally made Cedar Crest ice cream. During the weekends you might find lines out the door, but don’t worry, you’ll have a giant scoop of your favorite flavor in hand in no time!
That is, if you can decide which flavor to have! From Big Muddy (dark chocolate ice cream with a caramel swirl and brownie pieces), to Shipwreck (vanilla ice cream with a sea salt caramel ribbon and candied almond splinters), to Daily Grind (coffee ice cream with a caramel ribbon and chocolate covered espresso beans), and many more, you’ll be challenged trying to pick just one. And if you feel up for am eating challenge, try to polish off Hansen’s 10 scoop Mega Sundae. You’ll get your picture on their Facebook page just for trying.
Or if the Stylish Sampler is more your style, enjoy a one ounce scoop of each of the 24 flavors they offer-for only $10.
Of if you’d like to get creative, create a custom Fox Riverside Float with their locally made craft sodas poured over any delectable flavor. You could also try one of the Signature Sundaes, which celebrates pieces of Wilmot’s history. Regardless of what you order, you definitely can’t go wrong and you will certainly be back soon for more!
Hansen’s ice cream is incredibly creamy and dripping with flavor, but also incredibly affordable with a single scoop priced at $2.25. The Hansens wanted a place that families could come to for a treat a couple of nights a week without breaking the bank. And it’s important to them to give back to the community that has offered them so much support. Instead of accepting tips, they collect money to donate to local charities. Just this week they were able to provide a local charity with a gift of $1,000, all from generous ice cream lovers.
The next time you have an ice cream craving (and if you’re anything like me, it’s right NOW), take a quick trip over the state line to Hansen’s Ice Cream Parlor. Keep an eye on Hansen’s Facebook page to see their exciting new specials being released during the Kenosha County Fair!
What’s your favorite flavor from Hansen’s? (Mine is a tie between Daily Grind and Pirate’s Bounty!)
Hansen’s Ice Cream Parlor
11323 Fox River Road, Wilmot, Wisconsin | (262) 298-5431
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What is your favorite flavor at Hansen’s Ice Cream Parlor?
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