Schimpff's Confectionery in Jeffersonville, Indiana, has been tempting the sweet teeth of children and adults for almost 150 years and is considered to be an Indiana landmark hidden gem. It was originally known as a candy store, but has since evolved in a candy museum and has tours where you can actually watch your favorite candies being made using the same methods from a century ago.
Best and worst time to go to Schimpff's Confectionery
The worst times to go are busy holiday weekends like Valentine's Day, Easter and Mother's Day because so much of the business revolves around giving out those sweet treats. The Christmas holiday is another really busy season, with weekends getting busier the closer it gets to the big day. Generally, the best times to go are during weekday hours, but Saturdays and Sundays which are not near holidays are also great visiting times.
Must see/do at Schimpff's Confectionery
Don't just stop by and buy some candies. Instead, take the extra time and do the full tour, which lasts about 45 minutes. During the tour, you'll get to see old-fashioned candies being made on antique machines and using methods from 150 years ago. Also, take the time to walk through the Candy Museum, one of the few museums in the United States devoted just to candies and candy making, which has thousands of pieces of preserved candy and candy artifacts. If you're anxious to sample the goods, you can ask for some free tastes of yesterday's favorites like red hots and Modjeska's.
Admission to Schimpff's Confectionery
Admission to the museum and tour is free, but you have to book the tour to ensure you get to see actual candy being made. Also, note holiday hours as the shop is closed several days throughout the year.
Parking and public transportation to Schimpff's Confectionery
There is plentiful parking in Jeffersonville along the streets around the confectionery. Unfortunately, Jeffersonville doesn't have public transportation nor does TARC provide transportation in the downtown area.
Food at Schimpff's Confectionery
Schimpff's does have a Deli Lunch Room inside the museum and you can purchase lunch meals in addition to the candies made there. If you're still hungry or thirsty, step up and take a seat at 1950s-era soda fountain where you can order a chocolate soda.
Insiders tip for visitors to Schimpff's Confectionery
Don't go to Schimpff's just to buy candy. You can easily spend an afternoon in the museum watching the inside view of candy making. If it's a slow day, the candy makers will answer all your questions. Also, be sure to take in the Chocolate Dipping Room and Candy Demonstration Area where a variety of candies are made all day long.
Author's bio: CC Thomas is freelance writer and Kentucky native who loves to travel. Follow the adventures at www.iknowfuntravel.blogspot.com.
