A Sweet Scoop of Baldwin, Michigan History
There’s something magical about a small-town ice cream shop—the kind of place where every scoop tells a story, and every visit feels like coming home.
In Baldwin, Michigan, that place is Jones Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe, a beloved local gem known for its rich, creamy flavors and old-fashioned charm.
For years, this family-run shop has been serving up handcrafted ice cream, creating sweet memories for generations of visitors.
But how did this humble shop become a must-visit destination in Baldwin?
Let’s scoop into the history and explore what makes it so special, and discover why it’s worth a stop on your next Michigan adventure.
1. The Humble Beginnings of Jones Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe
Every great business has a starting point, and for Jones Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe, it all began with a simple dream: to create the best homemade ice cream in Michigan.
Founded in the late 20th century, the shop quickly became a local favorite.
The founder, Marcus Jones, focused on small-batch, high-quality ice cream made with real ingredients.
Baldwin, a small town surrounded by natural beauty, was the perfect setting for a cozy, nostalgic ice cream stop.
Word spread fast, and soon, the shoppe wasn’t just a treat—it was a tradition.
2. What Makes Jones Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe Special?
A. Handcrafted, Small-Batch Ice Cream
Unlike mass-produced ice cream, we take pride in making its desserts the old-fashioned way:
Fresh, locally sourced ingredients (when possible)
No artificial flavors or excessive preservatives
Creamy, rich texture that keeps customers coming back
B. A Family-Run Business with Heart
One of the reasons this shop stands out is its family-owned charm.
80 years in operation with just 4 owners over the years, keeping the dream alive
The staff often knows regulars by name, adding to the small-town warmth.
Community involvement—sponsoring local events, supporting schools, etc
C. The Cozy, Nostalgic Atmosphere
Stepping into Jones Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe feels like a trip back in time:
Retro décor
Friendly, unhurried service—no rushed corporate feel here
The smell of fresh waffle cones, filling the town with sweet aroma
It’s not just ice cream—it’s an experience.
The Firehouse Rescue (1978)
After the Baldwin Fire Department saved the shop from a kitchen fire, the Jones family created the “Firehouse Sundae”—vanilla ice cream with hot fudge “hoses” and pretzel “ladders.” A portion of sales still supports local firefighters.
3. How Jones Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe Became a Baldwin Icon
Over the years, Jones Homemade Ice Cream has earned its reputation as a Baldwin staple.
Here’s how:
Word-of-mouth fame: Locals and travelers alike rave about it.
Featured in Reader’s Choice Awards “Best Business in Lake County“
A post-adventure tradition: Hikers, bikers, and lake visitors stop by after outdoor activities.
“You haven’t been to Baldwin until you’ve had a cone from Jones,” say regulars.
4. Must-Try Flavors and Fan Favorites
The menu is packed with classic and creative flavors.
Here are the top picks:
Best-Selling Flavors
BlackCherry – Bursting with real fruit
Mackinac Fudge – Rich chocolate with fudge swirls
Vanilla – A simple but perfect classic
*Dairy-Free Options available
The "Ice Cream for Life" Bet (1961)
A regular customer, lumberjack Big Joe LaRoux, bet he could eat 10 scoops in 10 minutes. When he succeeded, He Received a lifetime free cone pass,honored for 30 years until Joe’s passing. His favorite? Black Walnut.
5. Visiting Jones Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe Today
Ready to indulge?
Here’s what you need to know before you go:
Location & Hours
Address: 858 Michigan Ave. Baldwin, Michigan 49304
Hours: Typically open seasonally (Spring-Fall), with extended summer hours.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday afternoons for shorter lines
After hiking/biking nearby trails (like the Pere Marquette Trail) or fresh off one of the hundreds of lakes.
Nearby Attractions
Make a day of it with these Baldwin highlights:
Baldwin and Pere Marquette River – Great for fishing and kayaking
- Hundreds of clean and clear lakes for boating and swimming
Local festivals and events– Check for events like the Troutarama celebration
Final Thoughts
Why Jones Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe Endures
In a world of chain restaurants and mass-produced desserts, we stand out by staying true to its roots:
🍦Family-run passion
🍦 Real, homemade quality
🍦 A nostalgic experience you can’t find anywhere else
Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, one scoop will make you a believer.
Have you tried Jones Homemade Ice Cream Shoppe? What’s your favorite flavor? Share your thoughts in the comments!
