7 Ways to Satisfy Your Summer Sweet Tooth in Lanesboro and Whalan
June 17, 2025
A warm summer day in Bluff Country just begs for a little indulgence—and lucky for you, Lanesboro and Whalan are full of delicious ways to treat yourself. Whether you’re cooling off after a bike ride on the Root River Trail or simply looking to enjoy a relaxing afternoon with something sweet in hand, here are seven must-visit spots to satisfy your sugar cravings:
1. Another Time Ice Cream Parlor – Lanesboro
A true Lanesboro classic, Another Time Ice Cream Parlor is a throwback to simpler days—right down to the cheerful walk-up window and vintage décor. They serve more than 30 flavors of Bridgeman’s ice cream, including nostalgic favorites like Butter Brittle and Raspberry Fudge Torte. Kids love the rainbow sherbet, while grownups may opt for a hand-spun malt or espresso affogato. Seating is casual and outdoors, and the umbrella shaded patio makes it a perfect warm-weather rest stop. Also on hand: Caribou Coffee drinks and handmade Abdallah chocolates, in case you want to double down on the sweet deliciousness.
2. Aroma Pie Shoppe – Whalan
If pie is your love language, this tiny town bakery is your dream come true. Located right on the trail in Whalan, Aroma Pie Shoppe is famous for its rotating selection of baked pies, cold pies, and nut pies—and yes, the nut pies are the kind of thing people write home about. Pecan, walnut, and chocolate chip varieties often make an appearance, and slices are served fresh daily. Aroma also offers simple sandwiches and salads for those who want a full lunch with their dessert. The outdoor seating area is shaded and popular with cyclists taking a scenic break. Whole pies are available with advance notice, and the friendly staff is happy to share the day’s favorites.
3. Clara’s Eatery – Lanesboro
Clara’s is a casual, welcoming spot that’s part eatery, part ice cream shop. They scoop premium Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream from Madison, Wisconsin, known for rich, ultra-creamy textures and bold flavors like Zanzimint and Fat Elvis. You’ll find hand-rolled waffle cones, malts, and dairy-free options, making this a go-to for families with diverse tastes. Clara’s is located right in the heart of downtown on Parkway Avenue, making it a convenient stop no matter where you’re headed. The setting is a cozy blend of retro diner and classic ice cream shoppe, with indoor and outdoor seating options. It’s a great place to cool down after a day on the trail or fuel up before your next ride.
4. Juniper’s Restaurant – Lanesboro
Juniper’s rotating desert menu, led by new pastry chef Laura Wintersteen, brings refined flavors and fresh creativity to Lanesboro’s desert scene. Each week you’ll find a new specialty cake with house-made buttercreams—flavor pairings like lemon-raspberry or the tiramisu cake are just the beginning. There’s also usually a second rotating dessert, such as a creamy panna cotta, fruit tart, or rich chocolate mousse. Add a glass of dessert wine or a locally roasted coffee and you’ve got a sweet ending to any summer evening. If you need something trail-friendly, grab a fruit bar or one of the signature whoopie pies: two dense cake-style cookies with a thick icing center in flavors that rotate throughout the season. Everything is made from scratch, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.
5. Paddle On Coffee & Maker Emporium – Lanesboro
Paddle On Coffee is part café, part artist market—and fully stocked with sweet treats for every kind of craving. The front counter area offers a cheerful candy selection, including nostalgic favorites like caramels, hard candies, taffy, and chocolates. Their sweet coffee drinks are also dessert-worthy, with options like caramel mochas frappes, Italian Soda’s and vanilla cold brew that hit the spot on a hot day. It’s a good place to cool off indoors or enjoy the shaded front patio along Parkway Avenue. Inside, you’ll also find handmade goods from local artists and crafters—perfect for browsing while you sip. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a favorite of both locals and visitors.
6. Pedal Pushers Café – Lanesboro
Pedal Pushers Café may be best known for its classic comfort food, but don’t skip the sweets. They serve Lift Bridge Root Beer on draft, and you can order it as an old-school root beer float with a generous scoop of ice cream. Their dessert menu rotates with the seasons and is varied in type and flavor. Pedal Pushers has shaded outdoor seating along Parkway Avenue and Coffee St. that makes it a great spot to unwind. Portions are generous and the vibe is unfussy—just good food and good people. Whether you’re refueling after a long ride or just stopping in for something cool and fizzy, this is an easy crowd-pleaser.
7. Whalan Depot – Whalan
A must-stop shop in Whalan, The Depot is a local favorite that blends handmade gifts with sweet treats and nostalgic snacks. Their fudge comes from Valley Fudge & Candy in Coon Valley, Wisconsin—thick, creamy slabs in flavors like peanut butter, chocolate walnut, and seasonal specials. You'll also find trail snacks like beef sticks and trail mix, plus fun sweets like Airheads, Nerd Clusters, and sour belts. It's a great place to browse for gifts and souvenirs while satisfying your sweet tooth. The Depot has a long history in town and is a go-to for cyclists taking a break from the trail. The atmosphere is friendly and fun, and you never know what new treasure—or treat—you might find.
Savor Summer, One Sweet Bite at a Time
Whether you’re chasing scoops, pies, pastries, or candy, Lanesboro and Whalan are a dessert lover’s dream. Hit the trail, explore the towns, and reward yourself with something delicious at one (or all!) of these local gems. Your sweet tooth will thank you.