10 Wisconsin Sweet Shops Locals Say Haven’t Changed In Decades

Wisconsin is a state rich in history and tradition, and when it comes to sweet indulgences, it’s no different.
Across its charming towns and scenic landscapes, you’ll find sweet shops that seem frozen in time, each telling a unique story through their confections.
Whether it’s the aroma of hand-pulled taffy or the charm of an old-fashioned soda fountain, these shops offer an experience that transcends simple taste.
Generations of locals swear by these establishments, not just for their delectable treats but for the memories they evoke.
Here’s a journey through 10 Wisconsin sweet shops where time-honored recipes and nostalgic settings create a sweet escape.
Each location offers a window into a bygone era, maintaining traditions that delight both young and old.
Explore these delightful corners of Wisconsin, where every sweet bite brings a taste of history.

1. Freese’s Candy Shops

Freese’s Candy Shops, nestled in West Allis, is a delightful walk down memory lane.

Its vintage sign beckons visitors to step inside and experience a world where tradition reigns supreme.

Since 1928, Freese’s has been crafting handmade chocolates and confections, using recipes passed down through generations.

Each piece of candy is a testament to the original family recipes, offering a taste unchanged by time.

The shop exudes an air of nostalgia, with its classic wooden shelves and charming decor that transports you to a simpler era.

Local patrons cherish Freese’s for its unwavering quality and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that greets you upon entry.

The shop’s enduring presence in the community is a testament to its beloved status, as families continue to share its sweet creations with new generations.

Here, every visit is an opportunity to relive cherished memories while creating new ones, savoring the flavors that have become synonymous with tradition and quality.

Address: 7312 W Greenfield Ave, West Allis, WI 53214.

2. Oaks Candy

Oaks Candy in Oshkosh is more than just a candy store; it’s a slice of history.

This fifth-generation family business has been delighting taste buds since 1890, and its charm remains unchanged.

Walking into Oaks Candy is like stepping into a time capsule, where the air is filled with the sweet aroma of candy being made using original methods and equipment.

The shop’s historic charm is reflected in its vintage candy displays and the building’s classic architecture.

Generations of candy lovers have passed through its doors, enticed by the promise of old-fashioned treats that remain consistent in flavor and quality.

Its long-standing tradition is not only a point of pride for the owners but also for the community, who have grown up alongside its sweet offerings.

Oaks Candy stands as a testament to the dedication and passion it takes to maintain such a beloved institution, ensuring that each visit feels special.

Address: 1200 Oregon St, Oshkosh, WI 54902.

3. Beerntsen’s Confectionary

Beerntsen’s Confectionary in Manitowoc offers a journey back to 1932.

Established during an era when quality and craftsmanship were paramount, this confectionary continues to uphold its legacy.

The shop’s quaint facade and welcoming atmosphere invite you to explore a world where homemade treats are crafted with care and precision.

Inside, traditional candy-making processes are showcased, preserving the authentic taste and texture that patrons have cherished for decades.

The ambiance is reminiscent of a bygone era, with its cozy interior and dedicated staff who carry on the tradition with pride.

Beerntsen’s remains a cherished local gem, drawing visitors from near and far who seek the nostalgic experience it offers.

From its delectable chocolates to its warm, inviting setting, Beerntsen’s is more than just a sweet shop; it’s a cultural cornerstone that continues to bring joy through its timeless confections.

Address: 108 N Eighth St, Manitowoc, WI 54220.

4. Kehr’s Kandy Kitchen

Kehr’s Kandy Kitchen in Milwaukee is a beloved institution, known not just for its delightful confections but for its dedication to preserving the art of candy-making.

Since the 1930s, this shop has been a staple in the community, using vintage equipment that adds to its old-world charm.

Visitors are often captivated by the sight of candy being crafted in traditional ways, a process that ensures each piece maintains its authentic flavor.

The shop’s atmosphere is steeped in nostalgia, offering a warm and welcoming environment that feels untouched by modern trends.

Longtime patrons appreciate the consistency in quality and taste, a testament to the enduring family recipes that define Kehr’s offerings.

This Milwaukee treasure offers more than just sweets; it provides a comforting reminder of a time when life was simpler and flavors were pure.

Address: 3533 W Lisbon Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53208.

5. Aunt Jenny’s Candy Kitchen

Aunt Jenny’s Candy Kitchen in Wisconsin Dells is a haven for those who appreciate the craft of candy-making.

Visitors to this charming establishment can watch as candies are created before their eyes, a testament to the shop’s commitment to traditional methods.

The experience is both educational and delightful, providing a behind-the-scenes look at how beloved treats are made.

Established decades ago, Aunt Jenny’s has managed to maintain its old-school charm, offering a product that remains consistent in taste and quality.

The shop’s interior is warm and inviting, with displays that highlight the colorful array of candies available.

Locals and tourists alike are drawn to Aunt Jenny’s not only for its delectable offerings but also for the unique opportunity to witness candy-making in action.

It’s a place where the past and present converge, creating a sweet experience that lingers long after the visit.

Address: 705 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965.

6. Hughes’ Home Maid Chocolates

Hughes’ Home Maid Chocolates in Oshkosh is a testament to quality and tradition.

This family-owned shop has been a staple for locals who crave the rich, consistent flavors that Hughes’ is known for.

The charming exterior invites you into a world where chocolates are crafted with love and precision, using techniques that have been honed over decades.

Inside, the shop exudes a homey atmosphere, welcoming visitors with its warm decor and friendly service.

Each chocolate is a work of art, reflecting a dedication to maintaining the same high standards that have been a hallmark of Hughes’ offerings.

The shop’s enduring presence in the community speaks volumes about its beloved status, as customers continue to return for their favorite treats, confident in the knowledge that their taste buds will be satisfied.

At Hughes’, tradition is not just preserved, it is celebrated, making it a treasured part of Oshkosh’s culinary landscape.

Address: 1823 Doty St, Oshkosh, WI 54902.

7. Sweet Memories Candy Shoppe

Sweet Memories Candy Shoppe in Lakewood is a delightful throwback to the carefree days of yesteryear.

This charming establishment offers a vibrant selection of nostalgic candies from the 1950s and 60s, each a reminder of simpler times.

Stepping inside is like entering a time capsule, with retro decor and colorful displays that evoke a sense of wonder and delight.

The shop’s commitment to preserving the past is evident in its carefully curated selection, ensuring that each candy not only delights the palate but also stirs fond memories.

For visitors, Sweet Memories is more than just a candy shop; it’s a place where history comes alive through taste and texture.

The warm, friendly atmosphere invites patrons to linger, exploring the many treats that line the shelves.

Here, every visit is a journey back in time, offering a sweet escape that leaves a lasting impression.

Address: 15381 WI-32, Lakewood, WI 54138.

8. Uncle Tom’s Candy

Uncle Tom’s Candy in Ellison Bay is a beloved Door County destination, known for its classic, handmade candies. This traditional shop has become a local favorite, offering a selection that remains consistent in quality and charm. The rustic exterior invites you into an environment where time seems to stand still, and the pace is delightfully slow. Inside, the shelves are lined with an array of treats, each crafted with care and dedication to traditional candy-making methods. Uncle Tom’s is not just a shop; it’s a tradition, a place where families gather to share in the joy of sweet indulgence. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of its offerings, drawing visitors who seek both the flavors and the experience of a simpler era. At Uncle Tom’s, every candy tells a story, and every bite is a journey through time. Address: 1200 Bay Shore Dr, Ellison Bay, WI 54210.

9. Vande Walle’s Candies

Vande Walle’s Candies in Appleton is synonymous with handcrafted excellence.

Known for its exquisite caramels and chocolates, this beloved shop has maintained a timeless quality through generations.

The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the sweet aroma of handcrafted confections, a testament to the family recipes that remain unchanged.

The interior exudes warmth and charm, inviting you to explore the carefully displayed array of treats.

Vande Walle’s dedication to tradition is evident in its meticulous attention to detail, ensuring each candy is a work of art.

For locals, it’s a cherished part of the community, a place where quality and tradition go hand in hand.

Visitors are drawn to its enduring appeal, eager to experience the flavors that have delighted customers for years.

At Vande Walle’s, every visit is a celebration of the sweet joys of life, captured in every bite.

Address: 400 N Mall Dr, Appleton, WI 54914.

10. The Sweet Shop

Vande Walle’s Candies in Appleton embodies the art of handcrafted confections.

Renowned for its rich caramels and chocolates, the shop has preserved its timeless quality across generations.

Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by the inviting aroma of sweets made from traditional family recipes.

The warm, charming interior showcases a carefully curated selection of candies, each crafted with precision.

Vande Walle’s commitment to tradition ensures that every piece is a work of art, reflecting decades of expertise.

For locals, the shop is a treasured community staple, where quality and heritage come together.

Visitors are drawn to its enduring charm, eager to savor flavors that have delighted generations.

Every visit to Vande Walle’s is a celebration of sweetness, nostalgia, and artisanal craftsmanship.

**Address:** 400 N Mall Dr, Appleton, WI 54914.