Get in the Halloween spirit all season long with way more treats than tricks as you embark on a candy-coated adventure through New York State’s sweetest spots! Whether you’re indulging in artisanal chocolates in the Adirondacks or taking a sweet trip down memory lane with vintage candies in NYC, these candy shops are guaranteed to give you the ultimate sugar rush and leave you craving more! Photo Credit: hakanchocolatier on Instagram.

After a picturesque hike at High Falls Gorge or a scenic drive along Whiteface Mountain Veteran’s Memorial Highway, treat yourself to something sweet at Adirondack Chocolates in Wilmington. The irresistible aroma of their famous open-flame, copper kettle-cooked fudge will draw you into this cozy, rustic chocolate shop. Indulge in classic fudge flavors like maple walnut, chocolate walnut, and chocolate peanut butter. Don’t miss the hand-dipped mint and coconut patties, and while you’re at it, sprinkle in some milk and dark chocolate nonpareils!

Krause’s, Albany (Capital-Saratoga)

Credit: @sana.icon on Instagram

Since 1986, this family-run chocolate shop has been a cherished fixture in the Capital Region, with roots dating back to 1929, when Alfred Krause brought his masterful candy-making skills from Germany to the U.S. Housed in a stunning building with its signature red roof, Krause’s boasts one of the largest candy showrooms in the country. Inside, you’ll find a mouthwatering array of sweets, from homemade fudge with weekly rotating flavors to classic confections like gummy bears, fruit slices, licorice Scottie dogs, and jelly beans. Seasonal treats such as marshmallow pumpkins, cranberry malted balls, and pumpkin cheesecake fudge add a festive flair, while the salted dark chocolate caramel apple serves up a true taste of New York. Need a gift for a holiday or special occasion? Krause’s offers a wide selection of personalized sweets, whether it’s chocolate long-stemmed roses, a “Get Well” box, or edible footballs to cheer on your favorite team.

Saratoga Candy Co., Saratoga Springs (Capital-Saratoga)

Credit: @the_brentwood on Instagram

On historic Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs, Saratoga Candy Co. is dishing out everything from homemade chocolates to classic penny candies. With 18 flavors of homemade fudge and colorful, ooey-gooey confections, this shop has something for everyone. Its true claim to fame lies in the Peppermint Pigs, showcased on the Food Network, the Today Show, and featured in numerous magazines and news outlets nationwide. In Victorian times, the pig was a symbol of good health, happiness, and prosperity. Inspired by this symbolism, old-fashioned candy makers in Saratoga created the pink pig-shaped hard peppermint candies, which have since become a beloved holiday tradition. While strolling down Broadway, take time to explore the many unique boutiques, diverse restaurants, and vibrant entertainment venues that make Saratoga Springs one of the country’s best small cities. 

Credit: @catskill_chocolate_co on Instagram

Travel + Leisure aptly dubbed Catskill Chocolate Co. “Sweet Fantasia,” and it’s easy to see why! The women-owned shop housed in a 200-year-old corner store brings a touch of sweetness to Catskill’s charming Main Street and boasts an old-timey feel with wooden accents, antique countertops, and intricately-designed Moroccan-style tile floor. It prides itself on using local ingredients, ethically sourcing from around the globe, and wherever possible, they opt for vegan, gluten-free, natural, and organic products. Try out the rainbow-colored sour belts, mini fish gummies, gummy bears, and the specialty “Poor Devil Chili Spice Dark Chocolate-Covered Organic Mango”.

Credit: @fruitionchocolate on Instagram

Fruition Chocolate, renowned for its “bean-to-bar” philosophy, has earned over 75 awards, securing its place among the world’s top chocolatiers. Their tempting creations include salted caramel peanut butter cups, spice-infused chocolate-covered nuts, and a luxurious selection of artisan bars with unique flavors like cinnamon maple bourbon dark chocolate, vanilla bean toasted white chocolate, and brown butter milk chocolate. You can even watch the chocolatiers perfect their craft through the shop’s windows. And since we eat with our eyes first, the packaging is just as exquisite as the chocolates themselves. While you’re in the area, feast your eyes on something different by visiting the World’s Largest Kaleidoscope just 10 minutes down the road.

Webb’s Candies, Mayville (Chautauqua-Allegheny)

Webb’s Candies in Mayville is a must-visit for any candy enthusiast. This family-owned gem, established in 1942, is famous for its handcrafted treats like saltwater taffy, peanut brittle, chocolate and candy covered pretzels, hand-dipped marshmallows, and molasses sponge candy. However, the true star of the shop is the rich and creamy goat milk fudge. Staying true to tradition, Webb’s continues to use copper kettles, wooden paddles, and marble slabs to craft its sweets, with each chocolate carefully hand-dipped. After indulging in these delectable treats, head to nearby Big Inlet Brewing on the shores of Chautauqua Lake to enjoy a craft beer.

This delightful little shop greets you with two giant candy cane decorations, setting the stage for a sweet experience at Peterson’s Candies in Jamestown. Since 1931, this beloved destination has been cranking out decadent peanut butter creations, hand-rolled candy canes, and molded chocolate novelties. Treat yourself to their unique offerings, like chocolate-covered blackberry or strawberry jellies, maple syrup candy, or their dark chocolate peanut butter espresso bark. Over 90% of their mouth-watering delights are made on-site using locally-sourced ingredients. While in Jamestown, burn off that sugar rush with some laughter at the National Comedy Center.

Maxwell’s Chocolates in Hamilton is a candy lover’s paradise, offering a delightful mix of locally made treats and nostalgic sweets. Conveniently located near the village green, Colgate University, and charming shops and restaurants, it’s the perfect stop to enjoy some candy while exploring town. From seasonal specialties like maple sugar candy and pumpkin or maple truffles to staples like chocolate-covered almonds, espresso beans, and retro favorites like candy blox, wax bottles, and gummy raspberries, Maxwell’s truly has it all. Known for their famous shakes and 20 ice cream flavors, they offer something sweet for everyone. Don’t forget to admire the shop’s nostalgic décor, filled with vintage candy boxes, Coke signs, and memorabilia from the ’40s, ‘50s, and ’60s.

Hercules Candy Company in East Syracuse proudly upholds the timeless tradition of handcrafting each of their confections. Producing between 40 and 250 pounds of chocolate daily, they invite visitors to watch the magic happen in person or via their viral social media channels. Their Instagram boasts over 150,000 followers who tune in to see their candy creations come to life, including favorites like filled ribbon candy, blue raspberry creams, chocolate-covered potato chips, and peppermint patties. With unique offerings such as soda-flavored hard candy, apple pie caramel-filled ribbon candy, strawberry cheesecake bark, and toasted coconut marshmallows, it’s hard to resist sampling everything! After indulging, take a scenic stroll through nearby Green Lakes State Park, known for its stunning glacial lakes.

Hedonist Artisan Chocolates in Rochester fuels a passion for fine confections, handcrafting small-batch chocolates using traditional techniques, premium ingredients, and beautifully designed packaging. Treat yourself to their chocolate-covered salted caramels—praised by The New York Times as some of the best in the country—along with peanut butter cups, chocolate-dipped apricots, cherries, ginger, and orange peels, or their irresistible pumpkin seed chocolate bark. The perfect complement to sweet is savory, so head a mile down the road to Swillburger and chow down on a top-tier burger while playing their vintage arcade games, all housed inside an old church.

Parkside Candy, Buffalo, Tonawanda, Williamsville (Greater Niagara)

No visit to the Greater Niagara region is complete without indulging in its iconic sponge candy, and Parkside Candy in Buffalo is the perfect place to experience it. This beautifully preserved, historic shop is as famous for its vintage charm and old-world aesthetic as it is for its sweets. Since 1927, Parkside Candy has been crafting its signature orange, dark, and milk chocolate sponge candy, alongside handcrafted old-fashioned chocolates. Don’t miss their famous gourmet lollipops, available in a variety of flavors, or their chocolate-covered nut clusters and chewy saltwater taffy. Fun fact: Parkside Candy made its silver screen debut in the 1983 film The Natural, starring Robert Redford and Glenn Close.

Founded in 1932 by Joseph Boyd Oliver, Oliver’s Candies has become a beloved Buffalo staple. The shop uses only the freshest ingredients to craft their goodies, including their famous peanut butter cows, Hostess squares, maple and peanut butter sponge candy, French creams, Ameri-mints, and a wide assortment of gummy candies—both sour and sweet. After satisfying your sweet tooth, keep the fun going at nearby Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, where you can enjoy over 925 popular games in a lively, entertaining atmosphere.

Credit: @onlyheretoeat on Instagram

Chocolate meets luxury at this chic speakeasy tucked away on Beacon’s picturesque main street. At Håkan, renowned Swedish chef and owner Håkan Mårtensson creates all the chocolates in-house, each meticulously crafted with razor-thin shells, perfect tempering, and a snap that melts in your mouth. Cozy up with a gourmet spiced hot chocolate, paired with exquisite bonbons that take three days to prepare, a testament to the chef’s artistry. HÅKAN Chocolatier also highlights rare, carefully sourced ingredients like lotus seeds, lingonberries, and hawthorn. Don’t miss trying the salted caramel milk chocolate bar, hazelnut and fig white chocolate bar, or the sunrise mango and chili ruby chocolate bar. After you enjoy your edible art, check out Dia Beacon’s collection of visual art from the 1960s to the present.

Lucas Candies, Haverstraw (Hudson Valley)

Lucas Candies has been crafting chocolates at the same location since 1896. This family-owned venue is now in its fourth generation of chocolate-making mastery. Their offerings include gourmet chocolate bars, chocolate-covered Oreos and pretzels, and their signature Gobs—dark chocolate and caramel-covered marshmallows. Visitors eagerly anticipate their chocolate-covered strawberries each year around Valentine’s Day and homemade candy canes in the winter. For a truly satiating experience, embark on a journey for your taste buds at the Tavern Tasting, where you’ll enjoy a curated selection of chocolates expertly paired with craft beers, ciders, and wines.

Credit: @liveloveroslyn on Instagram

Voted “Best Candy Store,” Bobb Howard’s General Store in New Hyde Park is a Long Island institution and nostalgic candy destination. The shop offers a mix of old-time favorites like Chuckles, Good & Plenty, root beer drops, and rock candy crystals, alongside popular classics such as Kit Kats, Junior Mints, Reese’s, and Milky Ways. Bubble gum enthusiasts will burst with excitement at their expansive selection, from Big League Chew to Hubba Bubba Tape to Razzles and Dubble Bubble 1928. Their penny candy selection, though no longer just a penny, channels the charm of yesteryear with treats like Atomic Fireballs, Cow Tales, Lemonheads, and PEZ. The store also offers a diverse assortment of toys and gift items that’ll have you reminiscing about your childhood. If this fun and flavorful facility doesn’t already have you on Cloud 9, head over to Cradle of Aviation to soar into the history of flight!

Economy Candy is undoubtedly one of the most iconic candy shops in New York—and possibly even the country—drawing in both locals and visitors to the Lower East Side since 1937. With an astonishing selection of over 2,000 items, you can explore candies by color or decade, discover what candies are trending, and pick up candy care packs, character-themed sweets, and imported confections from around the globe, all catering to various dietary needs. Experience the excitement of their larger-than-life candy creations! For an added twist, consider pairing your treats with some fun Economy Candy merchandise, a vintage trading card pack, or New York-themed candy tins to take home a piece of the sweet experience.

Dylan’s Candy Bar boasts the largest selection of candies and candy-related gifts from around the globe, featuring over 7,000 candy-crazed items! Founded by Dylan Lauren, daughter of Ralph Lauren, this vibrant emporium beautifully blends fashion, art, and pop culture with a sweet twist, creating an experience that ignites creativity and nostalgia for both the palate and the senses. As you explore the three floors of this candy wonderland, you’ll dive into displays of bulk candy to craft your own custom mix, sample unique offerings like freeze-dried candy, rock candy, candy kabobs, and discover an endless array of innovative chocolate creations. Pop into their East Hampton location to make your Long Island getaway even sweeter.

Stone’s Candies, Oswego (Thousand Islands-Seaway)

For more than four decades, Stone’s Candies has been charming Oswego with irresistible treats for every season, holiday, and occasion. The warm and inviting brick facade beckons visitors to indulge in the shop’s signature items including caramel pecan turtles, chocolate suckers, s’mores clusters, and peanut butter chocolate “pies.” At Stone’s, you’ll find a thousand sweet reasons to remember the Thousand Islands! While you’re in the area, take a tour of the historical landmark at Fort Ontario State Historic Site.

Don’t forget to post photos of your New York adventures on Instagram and Twitter with #iSpyNY and tag us on Facebook!