Stillwells: Sweet Treats Across the Street

Adored for its delicious frozen treats, Stillwells Riverwalk Ice Cream sits comfortably on the corner of Water Street, right next to the Saltonstall boathouse. Stillwells was brought to Exeter in 2011 by owner Arielle Wolfe, whose mother founded the original Stillwells in Hampton, New Hampshire, as well as one in both Rochester and Fremont, New Hampshire. The ice cream shop offers a huge variety of ice cream flavors, frozen yogurt, italian ice, milkshakes and more.Although Stillwells began its business only three years ago, it has made quite a name for itself. Students of Phillips Exeter Academy and residents of the town of Exeter both wander into the parlor on a regular basis.Open seven days a week from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., Stillwells separates itself from other ice cream stores by its high-quality products at a very affordable price. The ice cream comes from a business called in Massachusetts known as the Richardson’s.“I go to Stillwells over other ice cream stores because not only is it cheaper, but I get the real feeling of the town when I go there. It is very small and cozy, which I love. I will keep going to Stillwells until I graduate,” lower Nick McCall said.Stillwells employees take pride in the products they sell. “Stillwells is special compared to the other ice cream stores because we sell an amazing quality of ice cream and then huge sizes for a small cost,” an employee who wished to remain anonymous said.She also added that Stillwells always works to build a good name for the store and also the town of Exeter. The shop happily serves the community, including Exonian faculty and students. “For the most part, they are customers and we are serving them. Yes, it can be overwhelming when a group of students come into our little shop, but we love the students and welcome them as our customers,” she said.Many students enjoy going to Stillwells together on free afternoons. “I love going to Stillwells with my friends. After a dinner or on a Wednesday just grabbing ice cream is often relaxing. The ice cream at Stillwells is also very delicious. They offer a variety of flavors,” McCall said.Lower Jake Della Pasqua shared similar sentiments. “Although I don’t go to Stillwells often, when I do, I always love the ice cream. I often go there with my friends and share just hang out with them afterwards walking around the town. It is a very relaxing way to spend like a Saturday night or just any free time with your friends,” he said.Della Pasqua added, “I always get Baby Moose Track. It is only two dollars, so it is very affordable. But at the same time, it tastes better than most of the other ice cream stores.”The employee mentioned earlier in the article emphasized the importance of Exonians as customers at their business.“Since Stillwells opened Exonians have been an important part of our clientele,” the employee said. “The diversity of the students is amazing and it's really fun to be able to see the different cultures and personalities of the students. Most of the students are very respectful, and I have never had a problem with anyone. Come to Stillwells!”