The Unique Ice Cream Shop In York Is The Only One Of Its Kind In Pennsylvania
By Beth Price-Williams|Published July 15, 2022
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
We’re certainly not lacking in unique roadside attractions here in Pennsylvania. From Civil War Tails in Gettysburg to Schaefer’s Auto Art in Erie, we’ve got a little bit of everything. However, it’s safe to say you won’t find an ice cream shop in Pennsylvania – or anywhere else, for that matter – quite as unique as the one in York. When it comes to roadside attractions in Pennsylvania, it deserves to catapult straight to the top of your bucket list.
Chances are if you’re driving down Shoe House Road in York, you’ll do a double-take, especially if you weren’t expecting to see a house-sized shoe sat alongside the otherwise unassuming street.
That’s the Haines Shoe House, perhaps the most unique house and ice cream shop in Pennsylvania. It’s one of those places that you have to experience at least once.
You can tour the shoe house, which boasts a pretty fascinating history. Shoe salesman Mahlon Haines had the one-of-a-kind home built in 1948 as a way to boost the profile of his shoe business.
It might not look like it from the outside, but the shoe house is quite sizeable, with five floors. You can explore them all on a guided tour for a nominal fee.
This is one of those destinations that’s photo-worthy, so don’t forget your camera. Bring your appetite, too. Haines Shoe House is open seasonally, something to keep in mind when planning your visit.
The quirky shoe house also doubles as an ice cream and gift shop. Haines Shoe House scoops Beck’s Ice Cream in a variety of flavors, including chocolate, peanut butter ripple, and fresh peach (in the summer).
The menu also features ice cream floats, a raspberry ice cream sandwich, and scrumptious candies, including chocolate lollipops and peanut butter eggs.
Have you been to this ice cream shop in Pennsylvania? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! For another delightful way to cool down during the warmer months, visit this waterfront restaurant in Pennsylvania for a tasty, cold drink.
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