Imagine walking into a candy shop that’s been serving up sweet treats since before the Civil War. That’s the magic of Wittich’s Candy Shop in Circleville, Ohio — the oldest family-owned and operated candy store in the United States.
For 184 years and four generations, this small-town treasure has been crafting handmade confections with love, tradition, and some seriously high-quality ingredients. But what makes Wittich’s more than just a historical landmark is the experience (and the candy, of course) that keeps you coming back for more.
A Sweet Slice of History
Founded in 1840 by G.F. Wittich, Wittich’s Candy Shop has been delighting candy lovers for nearly two centuries. Passed down through four generations of the Wittich family, the shop has stayed true to its roots, crafting every piece of candy by hand with small-batch care and zero preservatives.
Located just 30 minutes south of Columbus in Circleville, Wittich’s feels like stepping back in time. The shop is as much about preserving tradition as it is about creating joy. From the very beginning, the philosophy has been simple: fresh ingredients, timeless recipes, and a whole lot of love.
What Makes Wittich’s Special?
The candy is incredible, yes. That’s a given.
But it’s the people and the process that really make Wittich’s stand out.
While visiting, I got to chat with the candy makers as they worked on a fresh batch of their famous Buckeyes. Their pride in their craft was obvious, and undeniably infectious.
Confectionarily infectious, if you will.
Unlike most Buckeyes, Wittich’s version completely coats the peanut butter centers in chocolate, sealing in freshness and giving them a rich, decadent flavor that’s unmatched.
Watching the process up close made it clear just how much time, effort, and care goes into every bite. These aren’t just candies; they’re edible works of art.
More Than Just Candy
The shop itself is a nostalgic wonderland. Among its treasures is a vintage Beechwold Pharmacy soda fountain, lovingly restored to its former glory. Sitting at the counter with an old-school milkshake in hand feels like you’ve traveled back to simpler times — a feeling that’s hard to find these days.
But it’s not just the history that makes Wittich’s worth a visit. The selection of handmade treats is overwhelming in the best way possible. My personal favorites? The melt-in-your-mouth nonpareils and the dark chocolate coconut creams. Each piece is a testament to the shop’s commitment to quality and tradition.
And let’s not forget the seasonal offerings — like pumpkin spice bark — that keep things fresh and exciting.
Why You Need to Visit Wittich’s
Wittich’s isn’t just a candy shop; it’s an experience. It’s a place where you can taste the love and history in every bite. Where you can watch skilled artisans turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Where the old-fashioned charm of a soda fountain meets the magic of handmade confections.
So whether you’re a candy connoisseur, a history buff, or just someone with a sweet tooth, make the trip to Circleville. You won’t just leave with a bag of incredible candy — you’ll leave with a story to tell AND a face covered in chocolate.