Tucked away in the heart of Ohio sits a sweet treasure that’s been delighting taste buds for over a century. Velvet Ice Cream’s Ye Olde Mill in Utica combines history, family tradition, and creamy delights in one charming location. Since 1914, this family-owned business has been crafting delicious ice cream while preserving a slice of American heritage that attracts visitors from across the country.
From Humble Beginnings to Sweet Success
Lebanese immigrant Joseph Dager started Velvet Ice Cream in 1914 with just three flavors and a dream. Using a hand-cranked ice cream maker in a confectionery basement, he created the foundation for what would become an Ohio institution.
Four generations later, the Dager family still runs the business with the same dedication to quality. They’ve expanded from those original vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry offerings to dozens of creative flavors.
The name “Velvet” wasn’t chosen randomly—it perfectly describes the smooth, rich texture that has kept customers coming back for 110 years and counting.
The Charming Historic Mill Experience
Walking into Ye Olde Mill feels like stepping back in time. The rustic wooden beams overhead and massive water wheel outside transport visitors to a simpler era while they enjoy modern ice cream flavors.
Originally built in 1817 as a grist mill, this structure became Velvet’s home in 1960. After surviving a devastating fire in the 1980s, the mill was lovingly rebuilt and enhanced to preserve its historic character.
The turn-of-the-century soda fountain style parlor inside creates the perfect nostalgic atmosphere for enjoying a scoop of Ohio’s favorite frozen treat. The mill’s 20 scenic acres provide a peaceful countryside backdrop.
Ohio’s Sweet Educational Treasure
Did you know that Ye Olde Mill houses Ohio’s only ice cream museum? This unique attraction showcases the fascinating evolution of ice cream production through the decades.
Visitors marvel at vintage equipment, from hand-cranked makers to early commercial machines. Interactive displays explain how the frozen treat transformed from luxury to household staple.
The museum’s timeline chronicles Velvet’s growth alongside American history, preserving both the company’s heritage and ice cream’s cultural significance. For school groups and curious families alike, it offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment that concludes with the ultimate hands-on experience—sampling fresh ice cream!
A Picture-Perfect Family Destination
Summer memories are made at Velvet’s sprawling grounds. Families spread picnic blankets near sparkling ponds while children race between playground equipment and adults relax in the shade of mature trees.
The 20-acre property transforms into a natural playground that complements the sweet treats inside. Catch-and-release fishing provides hours of entertainment, while scenic walking paths offer peaceful strolls after indulging in ice cream.
Beyond casual visits, the photogenic setting hosts countless celebrations each year. Weddings, reunions, and birthday parties find a special charm at this venue that welcomes over 150,000 visitors annually, combining natural beauty with sweet traditions.
Celebrating Community Through Festivals
The clinking of spoons against dishes and children’s laughter fill the air during the annual Utica Ice Cream Festival. Since 1974, this Memorial Day weekend tradition has brought communities together to celebrate all things frozen and delicious.
Despite setbacks like the devastating fire that threatened the mill’s future, Velvet’s resilience ensured the festival tradition continued. Today’s celebration features live entertainment, craft vendors, and of course, plenty of creative ice cream flavors to sample.
For many Ohio families, summer officially begins with this sweet festival. The event showcases Velvet’s commitment not just to making quality ice cream, but to fostering community connections that span generations.
