When it comes to good fudge – Mackinac Island, Michigan, is where it’s at (over 10,000 pounds is produced daily from May to October). Whether you love classic chocolate or unique flavors like Rocky Road, this guide is a chocolate lover’s dream.
Joann’s Fudge
Located on Main Street, this quaint candy store sells delicious fudge on Mackinac Island year-round. Watch master chocolatiers at work as they pour out decadent confections from copper pots and work their magic. Try over 25 fantastic flavors, like Butter Pecan, Rocky Road and Double Dark Salted Caramel (there’s actually gooey caramel inside)! Not in the mood for fudge? Sample some sweet and salty cashew brittle, or grab a bag of sugar-free candies!
Kilwins Chocolate and Fudge Shop
Fabulous fudge, decadent ice cream and more sweet treats abound at Kilwins, which has been making sweet treats daily since 1947. While not exclusive to Mackinac Island, this fudge shop remains popular nonetheless, earning a spot on this list alongside some of the island’s oldest and greatest. Check out the saltwater taffy as it’s pulled to perfect. Sample unique fudge flavors like Lemon and English Walnut. Or, bite into a hand-made caramel apple covered in walnuts!
Original Murdick’s Fudge
Opened in 1887, Original Murdick’s Fudge is a must-visit. Considered Mackinac’s original fudge shop, this old-timey spot is no-frills and all flavor with its quaint black-and-white striped aesthetic. Indulge in butterscotch, maple walnut and chocolate fudge made from all-natural ingredients (and right in front of you on marble slabs). Kick things up a notch with flavors like chocolate cherry and vanilla sprinkle. Can’t make it to Mackinac? Get your fudge fix year-round from the online shop!
May’s Fudge and Candy Shop
This family-owned and operated candy shop has been offering a mix of traditional and unique fudge flavors for four generations. Located on Main Street (look for the blue-and-white striped awning), May’s is a blast from fudge past. Get a behind-the-scenes look at candy making on the fudge-tasting tour. Sample specialty flavors like Birthday Cake, Blueberry and Love Potion (a blend of chocolate and sprinkles). Beyond the fudge, you can’t leave without trying the peanut brittle or English toffee!
Ryba’s Fudge Shops
There’s nothing better than the sweet smell of fudge wafting in the air, and at Ryba’s, you can smell it as you stroll down Mackinac’s charming streets. You’ll find three locations on the island, all serving the same indulgent confections that put this shop on the map in 1960. Stop by and watch skillful fudge makers whip up decadently delicious fudge, such as Cherry Chocolate and Oreo. Sample sweets like caramel corn and handcrafted toffee. Visiting with your fur baby? Ryba’s offers gourmet dog treats, too!
Murray Hotel Fudge Company
Nestled inside Mackinac Island’s bright and colorful Murray Hotel, this seasonal fudge shop is known for offering some of the most innovative fudge flavors in town. Sample the Heavenly Goo, a blend of chocolate, vanilla and caramel. Indulge in the Lemon Meringue Pie, a mix of graham cracker, creamy lemon fudge and marshmallow. Don’t skip the flavorful (and boozy) Bailey’s Irish Cream. In addition to fudge, you will also find fresh taffy and the softest homemade donuts.
Sanders Fudge and Candy Shop
For over 140 years, Sanders has been whipping up sweet treats for the Mackinac Island community, drawing in candy connoisseurs from around the world. Drop by the Main Street storefront to taste-test their famous fudge, thirty-two different ice cream flavors, chocolate truffles, and flavored popcorn. Also, you can’t go wrong with the brownie brittle – a crispy take on a brownie that will have you saying, “what the fudge?” Conveniently located near the Mackinac Island Ferry Terminal, making it a perfect pit stop on a day trip.
