During our Ocean City vacations, we often visit Dumser’s Dairyland for a frozen treat (pictured you’ll see cherry-dipped soft serve from earlier this week). The beloved Maryland institution has deep roots in Ocean City that began in 1939 when Mrs. Gladys Dumser started crafting and selling her delicious homemade ice cream on the boardwalk. Her commitment to quality and freshness paved the way for a legacy that has grown over the decades.
Since 1981, Donald Timmons has carried on this time-honored tradition. What began as a single, quaint shop has now expanded into seven distinct locations throughout Ocean City. Dumser’s is renowned for its incredibly creamy, rich, and flavorful ice cream, made fresh daily using high-quality ingredients and often served immediately after production. In addition to their iconic cones, Dumser’s offers an array of delightful treats, including milkshakes, sundaes, and floats.
Many patrons describe a visit to Dumser’s as a nostalgic experience. Several locations evoke the charm of a 1940s or 1950s diner atmosphere, complete with tin ceilings and classic high-back booths. For both locals and visitors, Dumser’s Dairyland has become an Ocean City tradition and a “must-visit” destination.
All seven Dumser’s locations are situated in Ocean City, Maryland. Two full-service restaurants at 123rd Street (12305 Coastal Highway) and 49th Street (4901 Coastal Highway) offer both lunch and dinner alongside their famous ice cream. The remaining five locations are dedicated to ice cream only, including the Ice Cream Factory at 501 South Philadelphia Ave, boardwalk spots at Caroline St. (2 South Atlantic Avenue) and Wicomico St., a location at the Inlet Parking Lot (601 South Atlantic Ave), and a site in West Ocean City (12702 Ocean Gateway).