Kimball Farm Ice Cream, Westford, Massachusetts:

We all have unique childhood escapes that we remember and cherish. When we are truly fortunate those places survive into our adulthood, intact and available. We then have the opportunity to share them with our family and friends. Arriving at our cherished destination, we hope that those charged with its preservation have kept the traditions alive, so we can share the magic we once felt. Dread often accompanies that first adult visit, as we worry that the dream has become extinct.

Kimball Farm is one of the few places of my youth that not only have preserved the beloved memories, but added new incentives to visit. Revenue enhancement has arrived, through additions of new family attractions. None of the special characteristics that caused people to drive miles, just for a taste of their tantalizing home made ice cream ,have been lost. However, a whole new group of families and corporate customers have discovered this gem. This was accomplished by adding new attractions that include bumper boats, miniature golf, a pitch and putt course, and a driving range. There is a country store and new food options in separate venues from the ice cream. The charm of the original farm buildings that attracted my family years ago is still present among the new additions.

The ice cream has long been the draw to Kimball’s. The reputation that drew us there in the first place was quickly confirmed in our first order. People raved about the quantity, the quality, and the connection between product and farm. It was clear the focus was on fresh, home made ice cream. After all, the cows were still there. The ice cream had a creamy, thick, taste, I had never tasted, and still do not find in other ice cream places.

You knew Dad was out to impress Mom when a quart of frozen pudding arrived at the house. Kimball’s Farm was the only place Mom was able to get her favorite ice cream. When that came home, it was a sure sign summer had arrived. One of Dad’s favorite family outings was to pile the kids into the car on a Sunday and join the large crowds that straddled both sides of Route 110 in the parking lots on either side of the road. With no other attractions than ice cream people drove from miles away just for the massive servings, the fresh flavor, and the challenge of the Kimball’s Special, an oversized sundae that nobody in my family was ever able to conquer. In fact, guests I take to the farm now still claim that sizes are still misleading, they just can’t eat the ice cream they get, even in the smaller sizes. The cows are now gone, but the quality and certainly the quantity has not suffered.

New diversions have brought customers to Kimball’s seeking entertainment. Our family had been disappointed that two of our summer entertainment venues had closed. This meant no more summer bumper car trips. Our first outing to Kimball’s bumper boats, quickly converted us to the enhanced experience of water, boats, and the bumper experience. Once again Kimball’s didn’t lose anything they improved on it. They continue to focus on ways to entertain, while keeping you cool. After participating in the golfing activities, you can trade off with cooling opportunities, of bumper boating or having some ice cream. The “Give Me Five” package deal, allows you to take advantage of the many distractions offered and still stay on a budget.

If Kimball’s was a childhood pleasure you’ve neglected, I would suggest revisiting its many relaxing options. For those who have not yet had the chance to enjoy its many recreation opportunities, I would consider placing it as a destination on your summer calendar.

Reference:

• www.kimballfarm.com/index.html