Candy Road Trip: The Best Sweet Shops in America

Hey fellow sugar lovers! Get ready to pack your sweet tooth and your suitcase because we’re about to embark on a delectable journey across the United States! That’s right, Candy Travel (did you ever think this was a thing!), I want to explore some of the most mouthwatering destinations that will satisfy every candy craving imaginable.

Parents, are you ready to become the hero of your family vacation? Forget boring museums and crowded beaches – this is your chance to unleash your inner child and embark on a Candy Travel adventure that will have the whole family screaming for joy (and maybe it’s because of the sugar rush!).

I want to share hidden candy havens, iconic factories where dreams are made of chocolate, and candy-themed attractions that will turn you into the coolest parent on the block. Get ready to relive your childhood fantasies and create unforgettable memories with your kids – all while satisfying your own sweet tooth!

So, buckle up and prepare for a sugar rush as we unveil the must-visit candy destinations across the USA!

1. Hershey, Pennsylvania: The Chocolate Capital of the USA

Now of course we must mention Hershey, Pennsylvania, the birthplace of the iconic Hershey’s Chocolate. Even if the majority of people that would travel for chocolate may not visit here for the chocolate. Let’s all be honest with each other here, we all buy Herseys’ because of convenience and nostalgia, not because it’s the best chocolate. We make smores with Hersheys’ because we’re not deranged, or a Kardashian, right!?

But let’s just say for a moment that you would visit here for a candy vaca, what are you going to find? Well, it boasts attractions like Hersheypark, Hershey’s Chocolate World, and the Hershey Story Museum. Which all have their places, you’ll be able to overload with some Hershey’s chocolate, and the kids can be free!! (well sort of)

Let me know if you’ve visited and loved it. It’s certainly a place to visit, and there’s bunches to do!

2. Atlantic City, New Jersey: A Seaside Town with a Sweet Surprise

I know you… You’re wondering what the heck is in Atlantic City? Picture this: it’s the 1880s, and Atlantic City is bustling with beachgoers seeking sun, sand, and something sweet. Suddenly, a massive storm surge floods the boardwalk, leaving shops drenched – including a candy store with trays of taffy exposed to the salty sea spray. The quick-witted owner, David Bradley, doesn’t miss a beat. Instead of bemoaning his soggy stock, he playfully declares he’s selling “salt water taffy”! This impromptu marketing genius birthed a candy legend.

But the story doesn’t end there. Joseph Fralinger, a savvy businessman, saw the potential of this seaside treat. He began packaging the taffy in attractive boxes, transforming it into a must-buy souvenir for vacationers. Not to be outdone, Enoch James, another candy maker, entered the scene. He tackled the sticky situation by refining the recipe, making the taffy less messy and easier to unwrap. He also introduced the bite-sized pieces we know and love today.

Thanks to these candy pioneers, salt water taffy became synonymous with the Jersey Shore and a nostalgic reminder of summer days by the sea. Its popularity spread beyond the East Coast, finding a surprising foothold in Salt Lake City, Utah, where it’s enjoyed year-round. So, the next time you bite into a piece of this chewy, flavorful candy, remember its unexpected journey from a flooded boardwalk to a beloved treat enjoyed across the nation.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana: (unofficial) Home of the Praline in the U.S.

Let’s whisk ourselves away to the heart of Louisiana, where the sweet aroma of pralines fills the air. This iconic confection, with its rich history and melt-in-your-mouth goodness, has been a beloved treat in the region for centuries.

Historically, (maybe not accurately) the praline story is said to begin in 17th century France, where a chef named Clement Lassagne was known to create a confection of almonds coated in caramelized sugar to impress his employer, Marechal du Plessis, Duke of Choiseul-Praslin . This early version, called a “praslin,” eventually made its way across the Atlantic with French settlers to Louisiana.

Now, Louisiana had an abundance of pecans, but almonds were scarce. With a dash of ingenuity and a sprinkle of local flavor, the resourceful cooks of New Orleans substituted pecans for almonds, giving birth to the praline we know and love today. These early pralines were often made by Ursuline nuns who taught young women the art of confectionery as part of their preparation for marriage.

But the praline’s story is also intertwined with the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans . In the 1800s, free women of color, known as “pralinières,” became renowned for their praline-making skills. These women, often dressed in brightly colored attire, would set up shop in the French Quarter, enticing passersby with their delicious creations. Their pralines became a symbol of New Orleans’ vibrant culinary heritage, a sweet treat with a story as captivating as its flavor.

Today, pralines remain a cherished part of Louisiana’s identity. Whether enjoyed as a decadent dessert, a thoughtful gift, or a nostalgic reminder of the city’s charm, the praline continues to delight taste buds and tell a tale of culinary adaptation and cultural fusion. So, the next time you savor a praline, remember its journey from the French aristocracy to the streets of New Orleans, a testament to the enduring power of sweetness and tradition.

4. Los Angeles, California: Where Candy Dreams Come True

Los Angeles, a city built on dreams and diversity, is a melting pot not just of cultures, but of candies too! From whimsical candy shops to interactive museums, LA offers a diverse range of candy experiences for all ages. Thanks to generations of immigrants who brought their unique culinary traditions to this vibrant metropolis, this vacation experience boasts a global candy scene unlike any other. Step into a world of Japanese mochi meets Mexican tamarindo candies and German gummies, and Korean popsicles all share the same shelf.

This kaleidoscope of confectionery delights is a testament to LA’s inclusive spirit. Wander through Koreatown and discover shops brimming with colorful and chewy treats like jelly candies infused with real fruit juices and sweet rice cakes filled with red bean paste. Explore Little Tokyo and stumble upon traditional Japanese confectioneries offering delicate wagashi (artistic sweets) and mochi in a rainbow of flavors. Head to the bustling Grand Central Market downtown and find yourself face-to-face with Mexican candies like spicy tamarindo lollipops and sugar-dusted mango slices.

For a taste of modern candy trends with an international twist, don’t miss stores like Rocket Fizz, with its curated selection of gourmet saltwater taffy and hard-to-find sodas from across time. And for a truly global candy adventure, step into Lolli and Pops, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by a whimsical wonderland of treats from every corner of the globe, from artisanal chocolates to exotic gummies.

Los Angeles proves that sweetness transcends borders. It’s a city where candy becomes a delicious celebration of cultural heritage, a reminder that the world’s flavors can come together in perfect harmony, one delicious bite at a time.

5. Orlando, Florida: A Sweet Theme Park Adventure

Orlando, Florida, is not only home to world-renowned theme parks but also a haven for candy enthusiasts. I sort of love this place called the Chocolate Museum in Orlando, but there are other places to visit as well (i’ll dive into those at the bottom here)

Escape the theme park frenzy for a while and discover a different kind of magic in Orlando – the magic of chocolate! Nestled amidst the bustling attractions, the World of Chocolate Museum & Cafe offers a sweet haven for families seeking a unique and delicious experience.

This interactive museum is a wonderland for chocolate lovers of all ages. Journey through the fascinating history of chocolate, from its ancient Mesoamerican roots to its modern-day transformations. Explore captivating exhibits showcasing the chocolate-making process, from bean to bar, and marvel at intricate chocolate sculptures like a sizable Mount Rushmore, all made out of Chocolate!

But the adventure doesn’t stop there. You should certainly visit The World of Chocolate Museum & Cafe, don’t forget to visit other awesome places in Orlando like:

6. San Francisco, California: A Golden Gate to Candy Delights

Not unlike LA, San Francisco offers a unique blend of classic and modern candy experiences, from historic chocolate factories to innovative confectionery creations. You know San Francisco, the city renowned for its Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars, also holds a hidden treasure for those with a sweet tooth. This vibrant metropolis, built by generations of immigrants from all corners of the globe, boasts a candy scene as diverse and delightful as its residents. Prepare to embark on a global sugar rush without ever leaving the city limits!

Wander through Chinatown, where traditional Chinese confectioneries tempt you with colorful candies, delicate mooncakes, and sweet dumplings. Venture into Japantown and discover the artistry of wagashi, beautifully crafted sweets made from mochi, red bean paste, and agar-agar. Explore the Mission District and encounter Mexican candy stores overflowing with spicy tamarindo treats, sugar-dusted mango slices, and piñatas bursting with surprises.

But San Francisco’s candy scene isn’t just about international flavors. It’s also home to innovative chocolatiers pushing the boundaries of confectionery creativity. Indulge in artisanal chocolates infused with unique flavors like lavender, Earl Grey tea, or even smoked salt. Discover small-batch candy makers crafting gourmet gummies, caramels, and marshmallows with locally sourced ingredients. And of course, no visit to San Francisco is complete without a pilgrimage to Ghirardelli Square, where you can experience the legacy of this iconic chocolate brand and savor their signature squares.

Don’t forget to check out the local candy stores and confectioneries wherever you travel! You never know what hidden gems you might discover. I’ve had many a homemade chocolate, or fancy candy cane from many shops from traveling. A location may have the best of something, without being known for it.

So, there you have it! The first list of locations for Candy Travel, a guide to some of the most delectable destinations across the USA. I hope this inspires you to embark on your own sweet adventure and create lasting memories with your loved ones.

Stay tuned for more candy-licious content, including honest reviews, recommendations, and insider tips. Until then, happy travels and may your journey be sweet!