There's an old school in northern Door County that has no books, worksheets, or homework, just lots and lots of awesome candy. Uncle Tom’s Newport School Candies is a shop that has been drawing generations of kids to a quiet corner of the peninsula that's a little off the beaten path, but well worth seeking out.
While "Uncle Tom," the original owner of the shop, has been gone for decades, his legend - and his candy shop - lives on, and candy enthusiasts of all ages will find a lot to love in this quirky little store.
You'll find Uncle Tom's near the tip of Door County, between Ellison Bay and Gills Rock. The school hasn't had classes for a long time - it held students from 1911 until the 1950s.
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"Uncle Tom" Collis was a larger-than-life character who started the shop in the 1970s. Today the shop is part museum, with memorabilia from Tom's time. He passed away in 1990. The current owners, Heather and Jim Laughlin, have owned the store since 1997 and have kept many things the same.
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The store gives out free bags of popcorn to customers, a fun tradition that Tom started. There are also lots of samples to try.
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The candy selection is amazing. You'll find a wonderful and unusual selection, including some throwback options that taste better than ever. The store also specializes in homemade peanut brittle, chocolate barks, fudge and pancake mixes - it makes many products in house...er, in school.
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The homemade barks and brittles are incredible and make great gifts, if you don't eat it all in the car!
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You can also find some items emblazoned with Uncle Tom's favorite expression.
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When you leave the store, you can let the sugar high wear off on a spectacular nearby beach - you'll find Europe Bay Beach just a mile east of the shop.
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Uncle Tom’s Newport School Candies is open seasonally, but feel free to ring the doorbell in the off season. If someone is around, they will let you in. Now that you've filled up on candy, here's where to find the best ice cream in Wisconsin.
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