- Attraction: Widman’s Candy Shop
- Location: 116 S Broadway, Crookston, MN 56716
- Industry: Candy Store
- Website: Phone: (218) 281-1487
Five generations of chocolate-making expertise converge in a tin-ceiling wonderland where potato chips meet premium chocolate in the most delightful way imaginable.
Widman’s Candy Shop represents over 115 years of family tradition, dating back to William Widman who opened his first bakery in Dubuque, Iowa in 1885. This legendary Crookston institution earned the title of Minnesota’s Best Candy Store, beating out competitors from across the state including the Twin Cities.
The family moved to Crookston in 1909 and opened Widman Candy Shop, making it the oldest family-owned business in Crookston and one of the oldest in the state.
George F. and Lois Widman have been crafting handmade confections here for nearly four decades, maintaining the same time-honored methods that made their shop a regional treasure.
Sweet Sensations & Signature Treats
The Famous Chippers: These chocolate-covered potato chips are nothing short of legendary. Invented by George’s father in the early 1980s, these signature treats have become so popular that new customers need to order before the first snow falls for Christmas.
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Keep Exploring →You’ll discover ridged potato chips perfectly coated in milk, dark, or white chocolate – creating an addictive salty-sweet combination that has people driving from states away. The crunch of the chip paired with the smooth chocolate creates a texture experience unlike any other candy.
Cashew Turtles: George calls these the premium choice among turtle candies, and you’ll understand why after one bite. These aren’t your average turtles – they’re loaded with premium cashews, rich caramel, and covered in silky chocolate. Each turtle is hand-crafted with generous portions of nuts that give every bite a satisfying crunch.
Maple Creams: These melt-in-your-mouth confections have been keeping customers coming back since the 1960s. The maple flavor is authentic and rich, with a texture so smooth it practically dissolves on your tongue. These treats consistently earn rave reviews from visitors who find them irresistible.
Chocolate-Covered Everything: Beyond traditional candies, Widman’s covers unexpected items in their premium chocolate. You’ll find chocolate-covered bacon, jalapeños, pickles, olives, pretzels, and gummy bears.
Their chocolate-covered almonds are so exceptional that people share them from Minnesota to California, with recipients amazed by the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
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Discover MoreSeasonal Specialties: Fall brings handmade caramel apples, while their extensive year-round selection includes toffee, almond bark, peanut brittle, fudge, and taffy – all made using traditional methods.
Nostalgic Atmosphere & Vintage Charm
Historic Interior: The nostalgic atmosphere features tin ceilings and walls, with glass display cases that have been in place since 1919. You’ll feel transported to a bygone era the moment you step inside this authentic old-fashioned candy shop.
Original Fixtures: The vintage soda fountain still sits prominently in the store, no longer functional but contributing perfectly to the ambiance. Even the cash register tells a story – it’s so old that the largest amount printed on the keys is just $5, representing a delightfully unchanged piece of history.
Unchanged Tradition: George Widman maintains a philosophy of preserving what works, explaining their commitment to keeping the shop’s authentic character intact. Visitors appreciate the rustic charm combined with spotless cleanliness, all enhanced by the presence of that classic old-school soda fountain bar.
Morning Gathering Spot: The shop opens at 7 a.m. and serves as an unofficial community center where locals gather for conversation, newspapers, and their daily dose of sweetness. Regular customers have been visiting for decades, with some making it part of their morning routine.
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Keep Exploring →Other Considerations
Generous Sampling: You’ll receive complimentary samples with every purchase, allowing you to taste before you buy. This welcoming gesture lets you discover new favorites among their extensive selection.
Premium Pricing Worth It: While prices reflect the handmade quality, customers consistently find them justified given the exceptional taste and family recipes. The artisanal nature and traditional methods make these treats worth the investment, especially when compared to mass-produced alternatives.
Limited Hours: The shop closes only two days per year – Christmas Day and Memorial Day. Otherwise, you’ll find them open seven days a week with George and Lois there every single day maintaining their personal touch.
Mail Order Available: Their popularity extends far beyond Minnesota, with customers ordering their specialties to be shipped across the country. The chippers particularly make excellent gifts that showcase Minnesota’s unique culinary traditions.
Parking & Location: Located next to China Moon restaurant on South Broadway, the downtown location offers the charm of historic Crookston’s main street with convenient access.
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Discover MoreWidman’s Candy Shop
📍 116 S Broadway, Crookston, MN 56716
