The Sweetest Road Trip in Maine Takes You To 9 Old School Chocolate Shops

This time of year has us craving sweet treats and lots of sugar. How can we be blamed when visions of sugar plums are dancing in our heads? Whether it’s the holiday seasons that brings out your sweet tooth or if it’s more of a year-round affliction, you’ll he happy to know that there are plenty of places in Maine to satisfy that craving. We particularly love the many chocolate shops that can be found here. To enjoy them, we suggest making a day of it by hopping in the car and road tripping to some of the best! For a complete map and driving directions from your own starting point, click here.

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thratko / TripAdvisor

In operation since 1986, this southern Maine favorite started out selling simple candy. Now, they make their own fudge and chocolates including truly unique concoctions such as "Lobster on the Rocks." Check them out at: 384 US Route 1, Kittery / 207- 439-5649.

Nina B / TripAdvisor

While we normally use photos of the front of businesses, we just couldn't resist showcasing the inside of this incredible chocolate shop. Every inch of this place is covered in the stuff and we're not complaining! They've been around since 1956 so you can trust that their homemade goodies are the real deal. You can find them at: 384 US-1, Kittery / 207-439-5649.

Laura M / TripAdvisor

Again, we just couldn't bear to only show the outside of this shop. Not when inside there's a lifesize chocolate moose! He's made of 1,700 pounds of milk chocolate. If you're looking for holiday treats, this has been the place to go since 1949. Find them at: 419 US Route 1, Scarborough / 207-883-4897.

Haven's Candies / Facebook

The chocolate here comes from a heritage that is over 100 years old. The store got it's start in 1915 by Herbert Haven, who used traditional methods for his wonderful chocolate. Today, the tradition continues through others and it's wonderful. Check them out at: 87 County Rd., Westbrook / 207-772-1557.

Corey Templeton / Google

This brightly colored little shop in Portland Old Port neighborhood is brimming with cheer. They make their own fudge, which comes in tons of different and unique flavors. And, they change often. Check out their other candy as well - from gummies to the classics. They're located at: 422 Fore St, Portland / 207-772-0600.

management / TripAdvisor

Found in a regular looking house (don't miss it!) this chocolate shop has been making their beloved confections since 1983. Check out the chocolate-covered blueberries and the best New England Needhams. If you're not convinced, consider that DownEast Magazine's Reader’s Choice awards have named them Maine's "Best Chocolate" and "Best Candy Shop" seven times! They're located at 174 Lower Main St., Freeport / 207-865-4071.

Black Dinah Chocolatiers / Facebook

To do a little good when you eat your chocolate, head to Black Dinah where the chocolate is organic and fairly-traded. Plus, they use things like fresh cream. Find them at: 869 Main St., Westbrook / 207-887-9763.

Specialty Sweets / Facebook

Locally founded and family run, this little shop has been a Bangor favorite since the 80s. They've got tons of homemade goodies, plus gelato. And the candy variety is huge! Check them out at: 36 Springer Dr., Bangor / 207-990-0778.

Lydia S / TripAdvisor

Owner Monica Elliot uses Peruvian ingredients for her wonderful creations. Get uniquely shaped confections, including salmon, moose and bears along with lots of fun gift packages. This is the further chocolate shop on this list (depending on where you've started) but it's so worth the extra journey. Visit them at: 100 County Rd., Lubec / 207-733-4500.

Keep that sweet tooth journey going by learning a little more about this fun shop. If you spent time in southern Maine as a kid there’s a very good chance this place was an important part of every summer.