Since 1962, Jimmie Cone has been a beloved destination for soft serve ice cream and frozen yogurt in Damascus, Maryland (26420 Ridge Rd). Today it opens for its 63rd season, as the iconic ice cream shop continues to delight both longtime fans and new visitors alike. Jimmie Cone also boasts an additional location in Mount Airy (1312 S Main St.), expanding its reach to even more ice cream enthusiasts.
Chelsea Hamilton, the current owner of Jimmie Cone, has deep roots in the business. Her father, Dan Leiter, purchased Jimmie Cone in 1990 from the Harris family. Her parents owned the business until Chelsea and her husband Brett bought it in March 2021. Chelsea grew up in the ice cream shop, having started her journey there at just 4 years old. “I worked there throughout high school and college, but returned full-time after having my first child in 2014. I am so grateful to have worked alongside my dad for six years, learning the ropes before officially running it on my own.” she shared.
As a response to changing customer preferences and the increasing demand for dairy alternatives, Chelsea has also made some updates to the menu. “With the rise of many folks needing a non-dairy option, we dropped the fat-free yogurt and now offer one sugar-free and one non-dairy option each week. We also carry water ice that is always non-dairy,” she explains.
While the business continues to thrive, Chelsea and Brett are focused on maintaining a healthy work-life balance. “I currently do not have any plans for a third location,” she notes. “My husband and I have two young children, so being able to spend quality time as a family is important to us!”
Jimmie Cone has garnered a loyal following over the decades, with many customers expressing their affection for the shop on social media. “I do not know how far anyone has traveled for Jimmie Cone, but we get quite a few comments on Facebook from people who mention how much they miss us when they move out of the area,” Chelsea says. “Lots of folks at the window ordering will say they’re back in town for family events and always have to make sure a visit to Jimmie Cone is on their agenda.”
This strong sense of nostalgia is a key part of Jimmie Cone’s charm. “We love hearing that folks always want to come back. I also think that’s why it’s important to keep things as consistent as possible. There’s a nostalgia piece that people love when they come back and see that we haven’t changed. They love to show their kids, grandkids, and even great-grandkids where they enjoyed a sweet treat as a child.”
As Jimmie Cone gears up for another season of serving their famous soft-serve and frozen treats, it remains a cherished part of the Damascus community and a sweet reminder of childhood memories for many.