A Sweet Road Trip Through Minnesota’s Most Charming Candy Shops

Embark on a whimsical journey through Minnesota, where the allure of charming candy shops beckons.

From nostalgic classics to quirky delights, this state offers a sweet escape for every candy enthusiast.

Each stop on this road trip promises a unique experience, filled with delightful confections and charming settings.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these candy shops embody the sweet spirit of Minnesota.

From urban boutiques to hidden gems in quaint towns, each location offers a slice of sweetness that reflects the heart of this vibrant state.

1. Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store

Imagine walking into a candy wonderland in Jordan, Minnesota. Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store stands out with its bright yellow exterior, a beacon for sweet enthusiasts. Inside, you’ll discover aisles brimming with candies from around the globe, each more enticing than the last.

This seasonal haven opens its doors from mid-May through November. Alongside its impressive candy collection, you’ll find a variety of unique sodas and homemade baked goods. The whimsical interior and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect family outing.

Visitors are often enthralled by the vast selection and the sheer joy of exploring a candy-filled barn. Whether it’s a nostalgic candy from childhood or a new sweet adventure, this store offers a delightful escape into a world of sugary delight.

The store’s themed sections and curated displays add another layer of fun. Rows of international candies sit beside vintage classics, giving every visitor a chance to uncover a longtime favorite or an entirely new discovery.

As you wander deeper into the space, the variety grows even more impressive. Specialty chocolates, novelty items, and local treats fill every corner, turning a simple stop into a memorable experience that appeals to all ages.

2. Abdallah Candies

Step into a piece of history at Abdallah Candies in Apple Valley. Established in 1909, this fifth-generation family-owned chocolatier is renowned for its fine confections. The rich aroma of chocolate greets you, promising a delightful experience.

Their offerings include a wide array of chocolates and candies, with caramel apples being a seasonal favorite. The craftsmanship and quality are evident in each meticulously crafted piece.

Abdallah’s commitment to tradition and innovation keeps visitors returning. The warm, inviting atmosphere and legacy in candy-making make it a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Indulge in the variety and relish a taste of Minnesota’s candy-making heritage.

The factory store provides a closer look at the artistry behind each confection. Shelves are lined with boxed assortments, individual pieces, and seasonal specialties that highlight the chocolatier’s long-standing dedication to quality.

The experience extends beyond the candy itself. Visitors appreciate the sense of continuity in a shop that has served generations, offering products that feel both timeless and thoughtfully refined.

3. Sweetly Kismet

In Carlton, Sweetly Kismet offers a candy lover’s paradise. This expansive 4,500-square-foot store is a treasure trove of sweets, catering to every taste imaginable. The family-owned shop exudes a welcoming charm that invites exploration.

Thousands of products line the shelves, from chocolates to unique, hard-to-find treats. It’s a delightful journey for the senses, with vibrant colors and the sweet aroma wafting through the air.

The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere enhance the experience, making it a favorite stop for locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re seeking a specific candy or just browsing, Sweetly Kismet offers a whimsical escape into confectionery wonder.

The store’s layout encourages leisurely browsing, with neatly organized sections that make discovery easy and enjoyable. Every aisle introduces another category of treats, from nostalgic classics to trending sweets.

Its reputation continues to grow as visitors share stories of unique finds and generous selections. Sweetly Kismet’s ability to blend modern variety with a down-to-earth environment gives it a distinct place among Minnesota’s candy destinations.

4. Candyland

Since 1932, Candyland in Minneapolis has been a staple for sweet seekers. Known for its classic candies and nostalgic treats, it draws both locals and visitors with its timeless charm.

Walking into Candyland is like stepping back in time. The air is filled with the enticing scent of popcorn and chocolate, creating an irresistible allure. It’s a place where memories are made, and traditions are cherished.

From creamy fudges to colorful gummies, the selection is both extensive and delightful. The dedicated staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, ensuring each visit is memorable. Candyland’s historic ambiance and quality make it a beloved destination.

The handcrafted popcorn varieties, including their signature mixes, remain a major draw. Customers often leave with multiple bags, each packed with flavors that highlight old-fashioned methods and attention to detail.

The store’s vintage presentation adds depth to the experience. Glass jars, classic packaging, and familiar sweets create a sense of continuity that appeals to visitors of all ages.

5. Legacy Chocolates

Walking into Legacy Chocolates feels like stepping into a small, carefully curated world of handmade confections. This downtown St. Paul shop keeps its footprint modest, with a counter full of truffles, brownies, and classic chocolate treats made in small batches each day. The aroma of real cocoa and fresh cream fills the space the moment you walk in.

Brownies and bars are among their sleeper hits, dense, rich, and crafted with a chocolatier’s precision rather than a bakery’s shortcuts. Regulars know to come early for the freshest pieces, and it’s common to see customers pick up one treat to eat immediately and another to save for later.

What makes Legacy Chocolates stand out is its unwavering commitment to quality. Everything is made using traditional techniques and pure ingredients, giving each bite a depth of flavor you don’t find in mass-produced sweets. It’s a quiet, humble shop that focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well: making chocolate worth savoring.

The truffle case displays simple, elegant creations that highlight the richness of real chocolate. Each piece reflects a philosophy centered on purity, allowing the natural flavors to take center stage without unnecessary embellishment.

The shop’s understated style reinforces its focus on craftsmanship. Every detail, from the packaging to the presentation, supports an approach defined by substance and authenticity rather than showiness.

6. The Chocolate Ox

Nestled in Stillwater, The Chocolate Ox offers a delightful selection of chocolates and candies. This charming shop captures the essence of local flair with its high-quality offerings.

The rustic decor and friendly service create a welcoming environment, perfect for a sweet escape. Whether you’re indulging in a chocolate truffle or savoring a scoop of ice cream, each treat is a testament to quality.

The Chocolate Ox’s commitment to excellence and its inviting atmosphere make it a standout destination. It’s a sweet retreat where the love for confectionery is evident in every detail.

The shop’s assortment includes a mix of handmade chocolates, nostalgic candies, and regional specialties. Visitors appreciate the balance between classic favorites and more modern selections.

The Stillwater setting adds further charm, offering a pleasant stroll before or after a visit. The surrounding historic district enhances the overall experience, making the shop feel like part of a larger tradition of local craftsmanship.

7. A Baker’s Wife Pastry Shop

A Baker’s Wife Pastry Shop sits unassumingly on a corner in Minneapolis, the kind of place you might overlook if not for the steady stream of locals heading inside. The shop is compact, cozy, and filled with the smell of fresh pastries coming out of the ovens throughout the morning.

The brownies here are simple but exceptional, soft, chocolatey squares made with old-fashioned methods and zero fuss. They sell fast, often disappearing by midday, a testament to how well-loved they are among neighborhood regulars.

What gives this bakery its charm is the no-nonsense approach: no elaborate décor, no trendy gimmicks, just honest baking done right. Customers linger with coffee, chat with the staff, and enjoy an atmosphere that feels like a true community fixture.

The pastry case carries a rotating selection that reflects the shop’s dedication to consistency rather than novelty. Donuts, cookies, and breads are prepared with the same careful approach that keeps customers returning week after week.

The surrounding neighborhood enhances the bakery’s appeal. Its presence feels woven into daily routines, offering a dependable stop that values substance and craftsmanship over flair.