Hibbard's Custard & Drive In
About
A beloved Lewiston institution since 1939, Hibbard's Custard & Drive In is the perfect spot for a sweet family treat with its nostalgic roadside atmosphere. Kids love the variety of frozen custard, soft serve, and hard ice cream options, while parents appreciate the affordable prices and quick service that make it an easy stop for families on the go.
Highlights
- ✓Classic frozen custard made fresh with a creamier texture than regular ice cream
- ✓Nostalgic 1939 roadside drive-in atmosphere
- ✓Wide variety including soft serve, hard ice cream, and specialty flavors
- ✓Affordable treats perfect for the whole family
- ✓Outdoor picnic table seating for enjoying treats in the fresh air
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on a weekday afternoon to avoid the long lines that form on summer evenings and weekends
- 2.Bring cash just in case, as some classic ice cream stands have limited card payment options
- 3.The outdoor seating fills up fast,consider bringing a blanket to enjoy your treats at nearby Academy Park along the Niagara River
- 4.Order the frozen custard for a creamier, richer treat that melts slower than regular ice cream (great for messy little eaters)
- 5.Park along Portage Road but arrive early during peak season as the small lot fills quickly
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons between 2-4 PM offer shorter waits, or visit right when they open. Avoid weekend evenings in summer when lines can be 20+ minutes long. The classic experience is best enjoyed on warm spring through early fall days.
What to Know
With budget-friendly prices ($ rating) and a casual outdoor setup, this is a grab-and-go spot perfect for a quick family dessert outing. Seating is limited to outdoor picnic tables, so dress for the weather.
Seasonal Notes
Typically open spring through early fall (approximately April through October), with hours varying by season. Always at its busiest during warm summer months. Call ahead or check social media for exact opening and closing dates each year.
Nearby Eats
Center Street Smokehouse (0.3 miles away) offers family-friendly BBQ, or head to Water Street Landing (0.5 miles) for casual dining with river views and a kids' menu.
More Activities Near Lewiston
Devil's Hole State Park
Devil's Hole State Park offers an exhilarating hiking adventure into the depths of the Niagara Gorge, featuring steep wooden staircases descending 300+ feet down the cliff face. Families with older, adventurous kids will be rewarded with stunning views of churning rapids, mysterious cave formations, and an up-close experience with the raw power of the Niagara River that's completely different from the typical Falls viewpoints.
Trailhead Niagara Gorge Hiking Trail
The Niagara Gorge Hiking Trail offers families an unforgettable outdoor adventure with spectacular views of the Niagara River carved through dramatic limestone cliffs. With multiple trails of varying difficulty, families can choose gentle riverside paths for younger children or more challenging routes for adventurous tweens and teens, all while exploring one of the region's most stunning natural wonders.
Academy Park
Academy Park is a charming historic village park in the heart of Lewiston that offers a perfect blend of classic playground fun and community atmosphere. With its well-maintained play equipment, shaded gazebo, and scenic walking paths, it's an ideal spot for everything from quick playground visits to spending an afternoon enjoying farmers markets and free summer concerts.
Lewiston Museum
The Lewiston Museum offers families a charming small-town experience combining local history with the delights of a walkable downtown district. After exploring the museum's exhibits, families can stroll through historic Lewiston to discover unique shops, enjoy ice cream treats, and participate in vibrant community festivals throughout the year.