Where Candy Meets History
In the heart of Jeffersonville, Indiana, a little red storefront has been delighting sweet tooths for generations. Schimpff’s Confectionery, established in 1891, is more than just a candy store—it’s a living piece of American culinary history. Family-owned and operated for over 130 years, this tiny shop continues to produce hand-dipped chocolates, hard candies, and nostalgic treats using many of the same methods and equipment from the early 20th century.
Visitors step off the sidewalk and into a bygone era. The warm scent of caramel and vanilla fills the air. Behind the glass cases, shelves are lined with ribbon candy, chocolate turtles, lemon drops, and candy canes. At Schimpff’s, every treat tells a story—and every story is coated in chocolate.
Over a Century of Sweet Tradition
Founded by Gustav Schimpff Sr. and later passed down through generations, the confectionery has survived world wars, economic downturns, and modern candy giants. The original copper kettles and cast iron stoves are still in use today, and the recipes—handwritten and time-tested—remain unchanged.
Unlike mass-produced candies found in supermarkets, every item here is handmade in small batches. Caramel is poured by hand. Chocolates are dipped individually. It’s this attention to detail and quality that has kept customers coming back for decades.
Behind the Glass: Watching Candy Made by Hand
One of the most unique aspects of Schimpff’s is the open kitchen design. Large viewing windows allow customers to watch the candy-making process in real time. Skilled confectioners pour hot syrup onto marble tables, fold it into shapes, and cut it with antique rollers. During peak seasons, visitors can see holiday favorites like peppermint sticks or red hots crafted right in front of them.
Kids and adults alike are captivated by the rhythm of the process—pulling taffy, twisting candy canes, and dropping freshly made caramels onto cooling trays. The experience transforms a simple candy purchase into an engaging and memorable event.
Hand-Dipped Chocolates and Signature Treats
Though Schimpff’s produces a wide variety of sweets, their hand-dipped chocolates are what truly set them apart. Each piece is coated in rich, silky chocolate and filled with creams, nuts, caramels, or fruit centers. The sea salt caramels and peanut butter meltaways are bestsellers, while chocolate-covered cherries and orange creams offer nostalgic flavors for longtime fans.
Seasonal items like chocolate turkeys, heart-shaped boxes, and custom holiday molds keep the selection fresh year-round. Whether you’re buying a small sampler or a full box, each piece feels lovingly made—and undeniably indulgent.
The Candy Museum and Demonstration Area
In addition to being a working candy kitchen, Schimpff’s also includes a small museum packed with vintage candy tins, molds, packaging, and soda fountain memorabilia. The collection chronicles over a century of American candy culture, from iconic 1950s wrappers to turn-of-the-century confectioner tools.
Guided tours are offered for school groups, families, and travelers, often led by Warren or Jill Schimpff themselves—the current fourth-generation owners. Their passion for candy-making and storytelling brings the shop’s history to life in an authentic, heartfelt way.
Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain and Gift Shop
Adding to the charm is a fully restored soda fountain where guests can enjoy classic treats like root beer floats, phosphate sodas, and old-school malts. Barstools line the marble counter, and the menu includes sandwiches and snacks for those who want more than sweets.
The gift shop features Schimpff’s boxed chocolates, retro toys, cookbooks, and candy-themed souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to pick up a gift or relive childhood favorites.
A Local Treasure With National Recognition
Though Schimpff’s is beloved locally, it has also received national attention. Featured on the History Channel, Food Network, and Travel Channel, the shop has become a destination for culinary tourists and nostalgia seekers alike. Despite the spotlight, the store remains humble and rooted in tradition.
What stands out isn’t just the candy, but the people behind it. Visitors are greeted with a smile, offered samples, and treated like family. The charm is authentic, the quality is consistent, and the atmosphere is timeless.
Planning Your Visit
Schimpff’s Confectionery is located just a short walk from the Ohio River in downtown Jeffersonville. Open year-round, the shop offers extended hours during holidays and special events. Parking is free and street-side, and the location is easily accessible by foot or bike.
Large groups are encouraged to schedule tours in advance, especially during busy seasons. Private demonstrations and tasting events are available upon request, making it a great destination for field trips or weekend getaways.
A Sweet Tradition That Endures
In an age of instant gratification and digital commerce, Schimpff’s Confectionery is a reminder of the power of tradition, craft, and community. Each piece of candy tells a story—one of heritage, dedication, and the simple joy of making something by hand.
Whether you’re stopping in for a single chocolate or a full tour, this tiny shop delivers big on flavor, experience, and heart. It’s not just a candy store—it’s a century-old tradition still going strong, one sweet bite at a time.
