Peterson's Ice Cream Depot is a family favorite in Clifton, Virginia. 

Peterson's features both soft serve and regular ice cream as well as hot dogs, barbecue, and fantastic french fries in an outdoor setting. The restaurant is located behind one of the historic homes in Clifton but is well-marked with signs, a small train you can climb on and a large cow! Order at the window and then your food will be brought out to you where you can eat at one of the outdoor seating areas or take it across Chapel Street to the Clifton Town Park and Playground and enjoy at a picnic table or the gazebo. There are some covered tables at Peterson's and some in full sun!

We have always enjoyed both the food and the ice cream at Peterson's and we have tried almost everything! Being outdoors, Peterson's is open seasonally but maintains an active Facebook page where you can easily find the hours. There is no parking directly at the restaurant but there is street parking in the town of Clifton, two parking lots across Clifton Road and several spaces at the Clifton Baptist Church that are designated for Peterson's customers when the church is not in use. 

The majority of Peterson's is far away from the road but if you are visiting with small children, be aware that there is no fence or gate between the entrance to the restaurant and busy Clifton Road. Likewise, Chapel Street does not see as much traffic but it is a road so be aware when exiting Peterson's onto Chapel Street. Peterson's has a single-stall restroom for customer use located upstairs. The restroom is a tight squeeze if you are taking children and is also located up a flight of stairs so it is not easily accessible. They do accept both cash and credit!

Peterson's is a great stop after visiting other destinations in Clifton, Centreville, and Manassas. It is super close to Webb Sanctuary if you are hungry after a hike and also to Paradise Springs Winery if you are in need of a larger meal or ice cream treat before or after your visit!