The Boston Cooler is Wildly Popular But Not What You Think

Here's a drink you might not have ever heard off, but it sure rings of Boston spirit.

New England has plenty of quirky drink names, like pop, or tonic for soda, and root beers floats are a common order in the summer months.

Not All Sodas Are Created Equal

But, not everyone likes root beer floats, especially if not made with a delicious local fizzy like Maine Root Beer.

Have you ever heard of a Boston Cooler?

No, we're not talking about a Yeti, nor Igloo, nor Coleman brand cooler.  We're talking about a drink.  No, not a cocktail (although a little rum might be good in it), but a refreshing drink that you've probably never tried before.

In fact, not that, it's not even popular in the New England area.

The Boston Cooler is a Mid-West drink, mostly known in Michigan, specifically Detroit.

Now that you are totally confused, let's explain.

Milkshake Adjacent

The famous Boston Cooler was born in Detroit at an ice cream shop in the 1800's.  Nobody can recall why it's called "Boston" cooler, but one thing they all agree on is it's vanilla ice cream and ginger ale.

For Michigan residents, it's only original if it's the local favorite, Vernors Ginger Ale, but there's something else.   It can't be just plopped together.  It has to be mixed in a blender, so it's like a milkshake adjacent per thetakeout.com.

But let's be clear.  Vernors is more like ginger soda, not ginger ale.

Read More: Michigan's Side of the Story about Boston Coolers

If you want to make it Boston-style, I guess you would need some Schweppes, Canada Dry or Polar Ginger Ale.  Whatever way you decide to make your own, just use your favorite ginger alem, ginger beer, or ginger soda.