The Big Dipper Ice Cream Parlour, a beloved local business in Prospect, Connecticut, has officially opened its doors for the season. Known for its homemade ice cream crafted in small batches, the shop continues to delight customers with its rich flavors and nostalgic charm.
Founded in 1986 by Harry Rowe Jr. and his wife, Barbara, the Big Dipper has been a staple in the community for decades. The couple’s son, Harry Rowe III, and Barbara now operate the shop, maintaining the tradition of handcrafting over 50 ice cream flavors on-site. The ice cream is made using fresh dairy cream from Vermont, ensuring a high-quality product that has earned various awards, including being voted Best Ice Cream by the Waterbury Observer for the past 20 years.
The shop’s signature flavor, Toasted Almond, inspired by the classic Good Humor bar, remains a customer favorite. Other popular flavors include Graham Jam, Icebox, and seasonal delights like Pumpkin Pecan and Eggnog. With large portions that are reasonably priced, the Big Dipper has become a cherished destination for ice cream enthusiasts.
Beyond its amazing treats, the Big Dipper is also known for its community involvement. The shop employs a team of local high school students, providing them with valuable work experience and fostering a sense of community pride. Many of these young employees return year after year, some even continuing their roles during college breaks, reflecting the positive work environment and strong community ties. There are various Woodland students who work here including senior Sophia Graffam. She started working here during her junior year of high school and loves it.
“It’s a really good environment to work in, it taught me a lot, especially when dealing with customers”, said Graffam.
They even offer various types of cones from regular hard and soft cones, to having them dipped in chocolate or rolled in sprinkles. All of their waffle cones are homemade as well, coming plain, chocolate dipped or chocolate dipped with rainbow sprinkles.
“Our waffle cones are super popular, we are always running out of them,” said Graffam.
This is also a great place for kids to go after a sports practice or even just to get a late night sweet treat with friends or family. There are lots of Woodland students that enjoy big dipper including junior, Clara Sweetland.
“I love going to the Big Dipper with my family. My favorite flavor is Mississippi mud with hot fudge, “said Sweetland.
Over the years they have expanded their products and have a larger wholesale presence now, you can find tubs of Big Dipper in various stores including all Labonne’s locations, Watertown meat center and Cask Republic in Stamford. So even if you can’t make the trip to Prospect you can still find Big Dipper ice cream.
As the weather warms and the days lengthen, the Big Dipper Ice Cream Parlour stands ready to welcome both longtime patrons and new visitors. Whether you’re getting a classic cone or one of the shop’s unique flavors, a visit to the Big Dipper promises a delightful experience that captures the essence of summer in Connecticut.
