Summer is all about delicious ice cream, and here in Virginia, you can experience the history of the ice cream cone in a truly delicious way.

Head to Doumar’s in Norfolk and you’ll be visiting the site where the very first ice cream cone was invented. Better yet, you can see the world’s first ice cream cone machine and sample the product right there in the store. So whether you’re looking for an excuse to eat more ice cream (who isn’t?) or a unique insight into history, you’ll be utterly charmed by Doumar’s.

Doumar’s Barbecue & Ice Cream has been a staple for the Norfolk area since it opened shop in 1904.

Doumar’s/Facebook

That was the same year that Abe Doumar created the very first ice cream cone at the St. Louis World Fair Exposition. Later that year, he and his brother opened a small stand at the Ocean View Amusement Park.

Doumar’s/Facebook

When a massive hurricane destroyed the stands in 1933, the Doumar brothers built a larger eatery that remains in operation.

Doumar’s/Facebook

Today, a visit to Doumar’s means a delicious ice cream cone as well as a unique history lesson. Still in the shop today is the world’s very first ice cream cone machine, coined by Doumar himself.

Doumar’s/Facebook

You can choose to drive up for curb-side service or head inside the friendly diner for a delightful snack.

Doumar’s/Facebook

Sampling an ice cream cone is an absolute must, but that isn’t the only offering at Doumar’s.

Doumar’s/Facebook

Other tasty options include pork barbecue sandwiches, hamburgers, hotdogs, fried ham sandwiches, and grilled cheese.

Kim Siddens/Google

With its unique heritage and impressive ice cream history, Doumar’s is undoubtedly one of the most beloved diners in Virginia.

Dwayne Blackwell/Google

Doumar’s is located at 1919 Monticello Ave., Norfolk, VA. Have you dined here before? What was your experience like? We’d love to hear from you! For more delicious ice cream, be sure to check out This Mouthwatering Ice Cream Trail Through Northern Virginia.

Doumar’s/Facebook

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Dwayne Blackwell/Google

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