MILFORD, DE — There’s a sweet new reason to visit downtown Milford. Today at 1:00 p.m., North Pole Creamery officially opened the doors to its brand-new year-round location at 10 S. Walnut Street, offering more space, more flavors, and a nostalgic ice cream parlor vibe in the heart of the city’s growing downtown district.
The new storefront expands the Creamery’s offerings well beyond its original seasonal stand on the Riverwalk. With over 1,500 combinations of locally made ice cream and toppings, the menu features everything from classic malted milkshakes and banana splits to hand-dipped waffle cones, loaded sundaes, and even dog-friendly frozen treats. The shop includes indoor and outdoor seating, space for more than 17 guests, and a team of seven employees, many of them local high school students from Milford and Lake Forest.
“This has been a dream in the making,” said owner Dave Pickrell, who started the original North Pole Creamery in 2020 in a small red building known as the Santa House. “That little spot proved that Milford was ready to embrace something sweet and nostalgic. Now we get to take it to the next level.”
The new location sits beside Gallery 37, a fine arts gallery owned by Dave’s wife, Marcia Reed, and across the street from the 2nd Street Players’ Riverfront Theater. Together, the Pickrells have become cornerstones in Milford’s downtown revitalization, helping to transform the area into a walkable cultural and retail destination.
“The foot traffic we’ve already seen today is incredible,” Pickrell said on opening day. “People came in right at 1:00 p.m. excited to see what’s new. It’s exactly the kind of community energy we were hoping to create.”
The new North Pole Creamery isn’t just a place for ice cream—it’s a community gathering spot. Pickrell has long emphasized hiring and mentoring local youth. His shop has become a popular first job for teens, teaching them responsibility and customer service in a supportive environment.
“I’ve been really lucky to work with great kids,” Pickrell said. “They show up, work hard, and make the experience better for everyone. I love that we can offer a fun, safe place to work downtown.”
Pickrell also incorporates community service into his business model. He frequently partners with local nonprofits, including dog rescue groups, and hosts ice cream socials and fundraising events. His homemade dog ice cream—a healthy, pet-friendly recipe—has been a hit among Milford’s four-legged residents and their owners.
“We’re already planning events for later this summer,” he said. “We’ll have live music, charity nights, and even some specialty menu days. It’s not just about selling ice cream—it’s about giving people something to come downtown for.”
The opening of North Pole Creamery’s new location reflects a broader momentum in Milford’s downtown renaissance. Over the past decade, the area has welcomed new shops, restaurants, galleries, and theaters—all within a few walkable blocks. The city’s investment in events, beautification projects, and Riverwalk improvements has helped attract both new businesses and residents.
“This is a great example of how small businesses can breathe new life into a community,” said Downtown Milford Inc Board member Curt Gual, who stopped by during opening day with his grandson. “North Pole Creamery is exactly the kind of local gem that makes our downtown a destination.”
The timing also couldn’t be better. As summer heats up and families look for ways to spend time together, the new ice cream parlor offers a perfect excuse to head downtown.
Pickrell says he’s already seeing interest from out-of-town visitors—and he’s ready.
“We’re open year-round now,” he said. “Whether it’s a hot July afternoon or a chilly December night after a holiday parade, we’ll be here scooping something sweet.”
North Pole Creamery’s new location is open daily, with hours to be posted on its Facebook page. The original Santa House location at 1 S. Walnut Street will continue operating seasonally with a limited menu and outdoor seating along the Riverwalk.
For hours, menus, events, and updates, visit www.facebook.com/NPCreamery or stop by the new shop at 10 S. Walnut Street, Milford, DE.