Kilwins
About
Kilwins in North Hills is a delightful sweet shop where kids can watch candy makers hand-pulling fudge and crafting chocolates right through large viewing windows. Beyond the entertainment of watching treats being made, families can indulge in premium hand-dipped ice cream, waffle cones made fresh throughout the day, and an impressive selection of handcrafted chocolates and caramel apples that make perfect treats or gifts.
Highlights
- ✓Watching candy makers hand-pull fudge and create chocolates through viewing windows
- ✓Premium hand-dipped ice cream with dozens of flavors and toppings
- ✓Fresh-made waffle cones prepared throughout the day
- ✓Beautifully decorated caramel apples that double as entertainment
- ✓Chocolate samples available while browsing the shop
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit during weekday afternoons to catch candy-making demonstrations and avoid weekend crowds,candy makers are most active between 2-4pm.
- 2.The waffle cone smell is irresistible, but ask for a 'kiddie scoop' if you have young children as regular portions are generously sized.
- 3.Park in the North Hills garage right next to the shop for easiest access with strollers,parking is free for the first two hours.
- 4.Let kids press their faces to the candy-making windows while you wait in line,it keeps them entertained and builds anticipation.
- 5.Sample before you buy! Staff are generous with chocolate and fudge samples, which helps indecisive kids make choices.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (2-5pm) are ideal when candy-making is in full swing and crowds are lighter. Avoid Friday and Saturday evenings when North Hills gets very busy with shoppers and diners. Summer evenings after 7pm can have long ice cream lines.
What to Know
Expect to spend $8-15 per person for ice cream or $15-30 for chocolate gifts. The shop is stroller-friendly with level entry from the sidewalk. Seating is limited to a few tables and outdoor benches, so plan to eat while strolling around North Hills.
Seasonal Notes
Holiday seasons (Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter) feature special themed chocolates and decorated treats that kids love. Summer brings longer hours and outdoor seating, but also the biggest ice cream crowds. The shop is open year-round and offers hot chocolate and holiday fudge flavors in winter.
Nearby Eats
North Hills has numerous family options within walking distance including Chopt Creative Salad (healthy, quick option), Vivace (casual Italian with pizza kids love), and Shake Shack just across the plaza if you need a meal before or after your sweet treat.
More Activities Near North Hills
Midtown Park
Midtown Park is North Hills' beloved gathering spot offering expansive green lawns perfect for running, playing, and spreading out a picnic blanket. The well-maintained walking paths are ideal for stroller-pushing parents, while seasonal movie nights and family events create memorable community experiences right in the heart of this vibrant shopping and dining district.
Trader Joe's
Turn grocery shopping into a fun family adventure at this North Hills Trader Joe's! Kids love pushing their own pint-sized shopping carts, hunting for hidden treasure (stuffed animals throughout the store), sampling free treats, and picking out affordable goodies like their famous Joe-Joe's cookies. The cheerful Hawaiian-shirt-clad staff creates a welcoming atmosphere that makes even routine errands feel special.
REI
REI North Hills transforms outdoor gear shopping into an interactive family adventure with its impressive indoor climbing wall, hands-on gear displays, and free educational workshops that teach kids outdoor skills. Beyond shopping, families can explore bike trails, get expert advice on camping with children, and participate in weekend classes that inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
North Hills
North Hills is a vibrant open-air shopping and entertainment district that offers families much more than typical mall shopping. With interactive fountains perfect for splashing on warm days, plenty of green space for running around, and regular seasonal events like movie nights and holiday celebrations, it's an ideal destination for a relaxed family outing that combines retail therapy with genuine kid-friendly fun.