In the heart of Frostburg, Maryland, you’ll find the place that, for much of the community, marks the changing of the seasons, serves as a rite of passage for young workers, and delivers ice cream creations with a side of nostalgia. For nearly 70 years, the Frostburg Freeze has been more than a seasonal ice cream stand, it’s been a multi-generational love letter to the community, scooped and swirled one treat at a time.
We sat down with third-generation owner Amie Armstrong, whose leadership at the Frostburg Freeze continues a legacy built by her grandparents, Nat and Dot Workman, in 1954. The business began as a Tasty Freeze franchise, offering a new opportunity for the Workmans who transitioned out of the dairy business to take over the operations. Though the name and branding eventually changed, much of the experience has stayed the same, from the iconic Boston Shake to the warm welcome that greets visitors each summer.
“It feels like home,” Amie says. “It’s an honor to uphold the name and legacy of my family in this business.”
A Family Tradition, Three Generations Strong
The Freeze has always been a family affair. Amie remembers working behind the scenes with her siblings as a child. Her father, Craig Workman, took over from his parents, and eventually passed the reins to Amie. Over the years, the Freeze has employed more than 300 locals, many of them high school and college students looking for their first job. The seasonal nature of the business makes it the perfect spot to work, socialize, and learn the ropes of responsibility.
And yes, some things have changed. Employees now wear jeans and tie-dye tees instead of the button-down shirts and khakis once required by Amie’s father and grandfather. Technology has evolved, too, with credit card payments and streamlined order systems now the norm. But Amie remains focused on keeping the soul of the Freeze intact: “The menu stays largely the same, with a few fun twists. We try to strike a balance between modern and timeless.”
Seasonal Rituals & Local Lore
Opening day at the Freeze is the unofficial start of summer in Frostburg. The shop always reopens on a Wednesday, allowing for a soft launch before the weekend crowds roll in. But no matter the day, the moment the OPEN sign lights up, customers arrive in droves.
“We feed off the community’s excitement,” Amie says. “The opening marks summer and closing signals the return of fall.”
At season’s end, tradition takes over again. The staff celebrates with a private company Pig Out, where they fry wings, clean out the last bits of stock, and toast another successful season, often fighting over who gets the “last can of hot fudge.”
Beloved Treats with a Twist
Frostburg Freeze is best known for the Boston Shake, a hot fudge sundae blended into a milkshake, which has been on the menu since the early days. “Back then, mixing sundaes into shakes was revolutionary,” Amie laughs. Today, customers are encouraged to get creative with their flavor combos. “The crazier, the better!” she says, pointing to cereal-inspired chills and fun twists like an upside-down Banana Split.
Other favorites include homemade ice cream sandwiches (with either classic chocolate wafers or chocolate chip cookies), and unique sundaes like the Golden Lady (vanilla soft serve with peanuts and butterscotch) and the Old Fashioned (twist ice cream and chocolate syrup), both recipes handed down from Amie’s grandfather.
Some menu items have even been inspired by community contests and customer suggestions. A Frostburg Children’s Business Fair winner recently dreamed up the Hiker’s Delight Super Sundae (a twist soft serve topped with hot fudge, rainbow sprinkles, M&Ms, a whipped cream “mohawk,” and a cherry on top).
A Community Cornerstone
For many in Frostburg, the Freeze is more than a place to grab a cone. It’s where first dates happen, birthdays are celebrated, and summer memories are made. “People love us and the idea of us,” Amie reflects. “We wouldn't be here without that love.”
The Freeze regularly hosts Spirit Nights and partners with local organizations like the Children’s Literature Centre. One of their most beloved annual events is Pirates Ahoy, where the Freeze turns into a pirate-themed post-party complete with a giant inflatable slide and “Pirate Booty” kids’ meals.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges of running a seasonal business, Amie is energized by the work. She finds great joy in watching her young staff grow over the years, many of whom stay in touch long after they’ve hung up their apron.
Her hope is to one day pass the Freeze to the next generation - perhaps one of her four daughters or a niece or nephew. In the meantime, she’s investing in small upgrades, experimenting with fun new flavors, and always staying open to what the community wants next.
“I always say we’re in the business of serving ice cream but also smiles.”
And if you’re wondering what Amie herself orders? The Hot Fudge Brownie Delight, no question.
Plan Your Visit:
📍 Frostburg Freeze
225 W. Main Street, Frostburg, MD
(301) 689-3020
Whether you’re a nostalgic local or a summer visitor exploring the Great Allegheny Passage, Frostburg Freeze is the sweet stop that feels just like home.
Allegany County Ice Cream Trail
You can satisfy your sweet tooth all day long on Allegany County’s Ice Cream Trail.