Sweet Treats in Lancaster County: A Local's Guide to Candy Shops

When people think of Pennsylvania and candy, Hershey’s Chocolate is probably the first thing that comes to mind. And rightly so—Chocolate Town USA is just 30 miles from our historic inn, The Lancaster Bed and Breakfast. But here in Lancaster County, we’ve got our own share of sweet spots to satisfy your cravings. From handcrafted chocolates to nostalgic candies, there’s something special about exploring the small, local confectioners that make our area so delicious—especially around the holidays, when candy feels extra magical and nostalgic.

Here’s a roundup of Lancaster County’s best candy shops:

Evans Candy | 2100 Willow Street Pike, Lancaster, PA
Since 1976, Evans Candy has been a family-run haven for chocolate lovers. They craft over 50 types of homemade chocolates using the finest ingredients, with no preservatives. Around the holidays, their molded chocolates—think Santas and snowmen—are a hit, as are their peppermint bark and cherry cordials. If you’re a fan of salty-sweet combinations, don’t skip their chocolate-dipped pretzels and animal crackers—they’re crowd-pleasers for all ages. Can’t decide what to get? Go for one of their assortments, which offer a little bit of everything. Visiting Evans Candy feels like stepping into a chocolate wonderland where every treat is made with care and tradition.

Sweetish Candy | 301 N. Queen St., Lancaster, PA
Sweetish Candy brings a Scandinavian flair to your candy cravings. The store’s signature pick-n-mix wall is packed with Swedish and Scandinavian sweets, offering a colorful array of gummies, licorice, chocolates, and hard candies. Want to really immerse yourself? Visit their Granite Run location on Dec. 21 for the annual Scandinavian Holiday Market. Enjoy sips of hot glögg, sample European candies and pastries, and browse unique home goods. It’s a festive event perfect for indulging your sweet tooth while discovering the rich flavors of Scandinavia.

Lancaster Sweet Shoppe | 141 N. Duke St., Lancaster, PA
This shop is a must-visit for its one-of-a-kind treats. Their signature stroopies (Dutch stroopwafels) are made fresh daily by resettled refugee women, blending community support with irresistible flavor. Two cinnamon waffles sandwich a gooey caramel center for a treat that’s impossible to resist. Pair a stroopie with their homemade ice cream or stock up on chocolate-covered pretzels and fudge for gifts or indulgence. Their gift bundles are thoughtfully curated, making them the perfect holiday present for loved ones or colleagues. With its mix of sweet flavors and heartfelt mission, Lancaster Sweet Shoppe is more than just a candy store—it’s a feel-good experience.

Vintage Candy Shop | 38 W. King St., Lancaster, PA
Step into a world of nostalgia at Vintage Candy Shop in downtown Lancaster. It’s stocked with retro and novelty candies, from Bottle Caps to Wax Lips, plus creamy caramels and toffees. Love a good sundae or milkshake? They also serve Kreider Farms ice cream, blending the old-school candy shop vibe with modern treats. During downtown holiday events like Santa in the City, they extend their hours, so you can grab your favorite sweets while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

Miesse Candies | 429 N. Mulberry St., Lancaster, PA
A Lancaster institution since 1875, Miesse Candies is all about tradition. Their caramels are made by hand in copper kettles, and they offer about 150 varieties of candies, from peanut butter meltaways to sea salt caramels. Don’t miss their 1930s soda fountain, where you can sip on classic egg creams or try new creations with Pensupreme Ice Cream. The shop exudes old-fashioned charm, and its dedication to all-natural ingredients like real butter and fresh cream ensures every bite is unforgettable. Miesse Candies is where history and indulgence meet in the sweetest way, making it a must-visit during the holidays—or any time of year.

Groff’s Candies | 3587 Blue Rock Road, Lancaster, PA
What began when 15-year-old Ruth Groff first starting making fudge for local farmers markets ultimately blossomed into a Lancaster favorite. Now run by the next generation, Groff’s offers holiday classics like peppermint drops, Christmas-colored nonpareils, and stunning Christmas box assortments. Their salted caramels and nut brittles are fan favorites and perfect for sharing or gifting. You can find their treats at their Lancaster store or at the Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market, where you’ll often find locals stocking up for the holidays. Groff’s commitment to quality and tradition shines through in every piece, making it a staple of Lancaster’s candy scene.

Wilbur Chocolates | 45 N. Broad St., Lititz, PA
In Lititz, just north of Lancaster, Wilbur Chocolates is a must for any chocolate lover. Their iconic Wilbur Buds predate Hershey’s Kisses and are a local legend, beloved for their rich, smooth flavor and signature shape. At their retail store, you’ll be greeted by the smell of fresh chocolate and the sight of candy makers crafting fudge in their candy kitchen. Beyond Wilbur Buds, they offer a variety of seasonal treats like solid chocolate snowmen and festive tins filled with their best confections. A visit to Wilbur Chocolates is as much about the experience as it is about the treats, making it a highlight of any trip to Lancaster County.

E&A Candies | 3614 Old Philadelphia Pike, Intercourse, PA
For an old-fashioned candy experience, head to E&A Candies in Intercourse. Watch as skilled candy makers craft fudge, dip chocolates, and pour molded candies. They’re famous for their 50+ fudge flavors, which range from classics like chocolate and peanut butter to adventurous combinations like salted vanilla caramel and mango coconut. Another specialty is their clear toy candies, a nostalgic treat perfect for holiday traditions. The best part? Free samples let you try before you buy, ensuring you’ll leave with your new favorite sweet.

Whether you’re nibbling on a Swedish licorice, savoring a handmade chocolate, or unwrapping a nostalgic candy from your childhood, Lancaster County’s candy shops make every bite feel like a celebration. And when you stay at The Lancaster Bed and Breakfast, you’re just a short drive from these sweet destinations—and even sweeter memories.