Great!Lakes Candy Kitchen

Great Lakes Candy Kitchen is a beloved sweet spot that's been delighting families for generations with its handmade fudge, classic candies, and generous scoops of ice cream. Located in a charming historic building along scenic Highway 61 in Knife River, this nostalgic candy shop offers the perfect excuse to stop during a North Shore road trip and let kids pick out colorful treats while parents indulge in artisan chocolates and creamy frozen desserts.

• ✓Watching handmade fudge being prepared in-house
• ✓Enormous selection of nostalgic and modern candies
• ✓Generous portions of creamy ice cream and frozen treats
• ✓Historic building charm with old-fashioned candy store atmosphere
• ✓Perfect road trip pit stop location along scenic Highway 61

1. 1.Watch for fudge-making demonstrations through the window,kids are fascinated by the process and it's free entertainment while you decide what to order
2. 2.Come with cash if possible as small candy shops sometimes have card minimums, though they do accept cards
3. 3.Let kids pick a small bag of penny candy to keep them entertained during the rest of your North Shore drive
4. 4.The shop can get quite crowded on summer weekends,visit on weekday mornings for a more relaxed browsing experience
5. 5.Grab extra napkins with your ice cream orders, especially for younger kids,the generous portions can get messy quickly

Weekday mornings or early afternoons offer the most relaxed experience with shorter lines. Summer weekends can be busy with tourists exploring the North Shore, so plan for potential waits during peak season (June-August). Spring and fall visits offer a quieter, more leisurely candy-browsing experience.

Prices are very reasonable (budget-friendly $ rating) with most treats under $10. The shop is located right along Highway 61, making it an easy stop with roadside parking available. It's a small, historic building so space inside can be tight with strollers during busy times.

Open year-round, though hours may be reduced in winter months. Summer is peak season with longest hours and biggest crowds. A cozy winter stop for hot cocoa and fudge after outdoor North Shore activities. Check ahead for holiday hours during Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Emily's General Store (just down the road) offers deli sandwiches and casual lunch options perfect for families. Russ Kendall's Smoke House is nearby for those wanting to try local smoked fish,a unique North Shore experience older kids might enjoy.