
HINTON, WV (SWVO) – The first Dairy Queen opened in 1940, two years after father-and-son duo John and Alex McCullough developed the formula for soft-serve ice cream with their friend Sherb Noble.
What began as a single store quickly grew into an international brand with more than 6,400 locations across 27 countries — including one in Hinton.
The Hinton location has earned a reputation as a standout among Dairy Queen restaurants, drawing visitors from across the region.
Located just off Interstate 64 for travelers coming from Charleston, the Hinton Dairy Queen is known for offering more than traditional ice cream treats.
In addition to classic menu items, the restaurant features regional favorites such as hot dogs topped with sauce and slaw served on Texas toast, pinto beans, cornbread, barbecue and macaroni salad.
Customers place their orders through a walk-up window that looks directly into the kitchen, giving the restaurant a nostalgic, small-town feel.
Another feature that sets this Dairy Queen apart is its setting along the New River.
The restaurant’s riverside location provides scenic views, making it a popular stop for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a meal or dessert in a picturesque setting.
The combination of unique menu offerings, traditional service style and waterfront views has helped make the Hinton Dairy Queen a destination in its own right.