A classic soda float from the 1800s is making a comeback—have you heard of it?
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Before there were ice cream trucks and bottled root beer floats, there was the soda fountain.
These sweet, bubbly counters served up more than just fizzy drinks—they created memories.
Now, one old-fashioned favorite from the Midwest is returning in a new form, and longtime fans are thrilled.
It’s creamy, spicy, and uniquely regional—and for those in the know, it’s more than just a treat.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or curious newcomer, here’s why the Boston Cooler is back in the spotlight.
The story behind the Boston Cooler
Despite what its name suggests, the Boston Cooler didn’t come from Massachusetts.
This refreshing treat was born in Detroit, Michigan, and named after Boston Boulevard—one of the city’s historic streets.
It first gained popularity in the late 1800s, combining two simple ingredients: bold ginger ale and vanilla ice cream.
Served in soda fountains and ice cream parlors, it became a summertime staple across generations.
At the heart of the original Boston Cooler was Vernors—a local ginger ale brand with a devoted following.
Its spicy, slightly sweet profile made it the perfect match for creamy vanilla ice cream, and over time, the Boston Cooler became a symbol of Detroit pride.
Also read: This new soda brings back '90s vibes—with a wellness boost
Vernors brings the Boston Cooler to store shelves
This summer, Vernors—now part of the Keurig Dr Pepper family—is releasing a limited-edition soda inspired by the classic float.
Called Vernors Boston Cooler, the drink blends their signature ginger ale with creamy vanilla flavoring, capturing the nostalgic taste of the original in a ready-to-drink format.
It’s the first time the float has been bottled this way, and fans are excited.
Whether you pour it over ice or enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, the flavor aims to deliver a sweet, spicy, and creamy experience.
Reactions have already poured in across social media, with many hoping the flavor becomes a permanent addition.
Also read: Is processed meat riskier than soda? Here’s what new research says about your diabetes risk
Where you can find it—and for how long
Here’s the catch: Vernors Boston Cooler is only available for a limited time and only in specific regions.
You’ll find it in stores across Michigan and the Toledo area of Northern Ohio, now through September.
It comes in 12-packs, 2-liter bottles, and single 20-ounce sizes.
If you're outside of that area, there’s still good news: regular Vernors is sold nationwide.
That means you can create your own Boston Cooler float at home with just a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a cold bottle of ginger ale!
Source: Facebook / Your Snack Dealer
Also read: A big-name collab just dropped a tangy twist—but only for a limited time
How to make a Boston Cooler at home
Can’t find the special-edition soda in stores?
You can still enjoy the classic version at home with this simple recipe:
Homemade Boston Cooler
Also read: You won’t believe which ’80s classic Crush just brought back—but it’s only here for a limited time!
Why this retro treat still matters
The return of the Boston Cooler comes during a time when nostalgic flavors are having a moment.
From “dirty sodas” to soda fountain-style floats, Americans are rediscovering the charm of old-school refreshments.
The Boston Cooler stands out not just for its taste, but for its history.
It’s a reminder of neighborhood ice cream shops, family traditions, and simpler summer afternoons.
For those who grew up with it, the flavor brings back cherished memories.
For those just discovering it, it’s a refreshing—and meaningful—way to try something timeless.
Read next: Is this new product from Coca-Cola going to rock your world? Find out now!
Have you ever tried a Boston Cooler, or is this your first time hearing about it? Do you remember sipping soda floats at a neighborhood diner or making them at home during summer breaks? If you’ve gotten your hands on the new Vernors Boston Cooler soda, we’d love to know what you thought!
These sweet, bubbly counters served up more than just fizzy drinks—they created memories.
Now, one old-fashioned favorite from the Midwest is returning in a new form, and longtime fans are thrilled.
It’s creamy, spicy, and uniquely regional—and for those in the know, it’s more than just a treat.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or curious newcomer, here’s why the Boston Cooler is back in the spotlight.
Retro-inspired flavors are making a comeback as shoppers rediscover classic summer treats. Image Source: Pexels / Tima Miroshnichenko.
The story behind the Boston Cooler
Despite what its name suggests, the Boston Cooler didn’t come from Massachusetts.
This refreshing treat was born in Detroit, Michigan, and named after Boston Boulevard—one of the city’s historic streets.
It first gained popularity in the late 1800s, combining two simple ingredients: bold ginger ale and vanilla ice cream.
Served in soda fountains and ice cream parlors, it became a summertime staple across generations.
At the heart of the original Boston Cooler was Vernors—a local ginger ale brand with a devoted following.
Its spicy, slightly sweet profile made it the perfect match for creamy vanilla ice cream, and over time, the Boston Cooler became a symbol of Detroit pride.
Also read: This new soda brings back '90s vibes—with a wellness boost
Vernors brings the Boston Cooler to store shelves
This summer, Vernors—now part of the Keurig Dr Pepper family—is releasing a limited-edition soda inspired by the classic float.
Called Vernors Boston Cooler, the drink blends their signature ginger ale with creamy vanilla flavoring, capturing the nostalgic taste of the original in a ready-to-drink format.
It’s the first time the float has been bottled this way, and fans are excited.
Whether you pour it over ice or enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, the flavor aims to deliver a sweet, spicy, and creamy experience.
Reactions have already poured in across social media, with many hoping the flavor becomes a permanent addition.
Also read: Is processed meat riskier than soda? Here’s what new research says about your diabetes risk
Where you can find it—and for how long
Here’s the catch: Vernors Boston Cooler is only available for a limited time and only in specific regions.
You’ll find it in stores across Michigan and the Toledo area of Northern Ohio, now through September.
It comes in 12-packs, 2-liter bottles, and single 20-ounce sizes.
If you're outside of that area, there’s still good news: regular Vernors is sold nationwide.
That means you can create your own Boston Cooler float at home with just a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a cold bottle of ginger ale!
Source: Facebook / Your Snack Dealer
Also read: A big-name collab just dropped a tangy twist—but only for a limited time
How to make a Boston Cooler at home
Can’t find the special-edition soda in stores?
You can still enjoy the classic version at home with this simple recipe:
Homemade Boston Cooler
- Fill a tall glass halfway with cold Vernors (or another ginger ale).
- Add two scoops of vanilla ice cream.
- Top it off with more ginger ale.
- Stir gently and serve with a straw or spoon.
Optional: Swap in different ice cream flavors or add a splash of bourbon for a grown-up twist.
Also read: You won’t believe which ’80s classic Crush just brought back—but it’s only here for a limited time!
Why this retro treat still matters
The return of the Boston Cooler comes during a time when nostalgic flavors are having a moment.
From “dirty sodas” to soda fountain-style floats, Americans are rediscovering the charm of old-school refreshments.
The Boston Cooler stands out not just for its taste, but for its history.
It’s a reminder of neighborhood ice cream shops, family traditions, and simpler summer afternoons.
For those who grew up with it, the flavor brings back cherished memories.
For those just discovering it, it’s a refreshing—and meaningful—way to try something timeless.
Read next: Is this new product from Coca-Cola going to rock your world? Find out now!
Have you ever tried a Boston Cooler, or is this your first time hearing about it? Do you remember sipping soda floats at a neighborhood diner or making them at home during summer breaks? If you’ve gotten your hands on the new Vernors Boston Cooler soda, we’d love to know what you thought!
