South Carolina is home to more than one chocolatier and that's great news for chocolate lovers both far and near. Today we're channeling our inner Willy Wonka and taking you on a tour de force of the most scrumdiddlyumptious chocolatiers in the entire state! This road trip takes you to the very best chocolate shops in South Carolina, and it's easily the sweetest adventure you'll ever take. Let's go!
You can start at any point, of course, but we move from the top of the state down, landing in a treasure trove of chocolate shops on Hilton Head Island! Here's a link to the above Google Map. Let's get started!
1. ChocolatBoutique - Fort Mill
Forget designer clothing boutiques, chocolate boutiques are where it's at. This adorable little shop is a chocolate lover's dream: homemade truffles, chocolates, European chocolates, and pretty much any chocolate-dipped confection you can come up with. You'll want to get multiple boxes. ChocolatBoutique is located at 1012 Market Street, Fort Mill, SC, 29708.
2. Vaughn Russell Candy Kitchen - Greenviille
Never tried a Mint Pecan from Vaughn Russell? It's maybe not the most traditional combination, but it totally works -- trust us. This specialty chocolatier has been creating homemade confections in South Carolina for more than 60 years; one taste, and you'll understand why. Vaughn Russel Candy is located at 401 Augusta Road, Greenville, SC, 29601.
3. The Peanut Man Candy & Nuts - Columbia
If you're looking for the full Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory experience, this is it. The Peanut Man offers all sorts of sweet and chocolaty treats: chocolate clusters, chocolate-covered pretzels, and chocolate-dipped strawberries are just a few. You'll find the very best road trip snacks sure to keep your passengers very happy! Find The Peanut Man at 3905 Fernandina Road, Columbia, SC, 29210.
4. Kilwins - Charleston
It's hard to resist the sweet treats found at Kilwins. From chocolate-covered apples and strawberries (that totally counts as health food, by the way) to their delicious homemade fudge (created in-store for all to see), Kilwins is a South Carolina institution. Find them in Charleston at 59 S. Market Street, Charleston, SC, 29401.
5. The Chocolate Tree - Beaufort
If you've ventured to Beaufort anytime in the last few decades and haven't made it to The Chocolate Tree, then you've been missing out - big. All of their sweet chocolate confections are made on site, and they also carry the perfect gift to pair with a box of chocolates: beautiful trays and platters upon which to serve these splendid works of edible art! The Chocolate Tree is located at 507 Carteret Street, Beaufort, SC, 29902.
6. Chocolates by the Sea - Hilton Head
Visitors and locals alike flock to this old-school chocolate shop in Hilton Head for the finest hand-dipped chocolates, signature barks, and specialty items on the island. Their whimsically shaped chocolates (think flip flops, sea shells, and star fish) also make great gifts! Chocolates by the Sea is located at 24 Palmetto Bay Road, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29928.
7. The Chocolate Canopy - Hilton Head
We end our tour de chocolate with a charming little candy shop in Hilton Head. The Chocolate Canopy has been the island's local chocolate company since 1982, molding up the most delicious dark (and milk) chocolate 'gators that are almost too cute to eat! If you're on vacation, skip the silly souvenirs and go for delicious, locally made chocolate that's a fun reminder of your visit. The Chocolate Canopy is located at 55 New Orleans Road, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29928.
So what do you think: is this not the sweetest road trip ever? Do you agree with our picks for the best chocolate shops in South Carolina? What are you most excited to try? And if you're Team Dessert First, you'll be right at home at The Cottage Cafe, a charming little restaurant in South Carolina that’s got some of the most incredible sweet treats around!
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