🍬 A Sweet Weekend in Cresco: Visiting Callie’s Candy Kitchen
Hey, Live the Poconos readers — Kacey here! Last weekend, my daughter and I decided to take a short trip to the charming little town of Cresco, PA, tucked into the heart of the Poconos. We only shop local for Christmas, so we planned to visit a local craft show to browse for handmade gifts! Well, if you have daughters, you know the wait for them to get ready these days can take up some time, and we ended up getting to the fair pretty late- just late enough to watch them pack up! On the way home, we saw Callie’s Candy Kitchen — a magical spot that’s been making handmade sweets since 1952, and we couldn't pass up the chance to check it out!
Why Callie’s Is a Poconos Gem
From the moment you walk in, Callie’s feels like stepping into a nostalgic candy wonderland. It’s family-owned and has been run by the Callie family since Harry and Carol Callie opened their doors as newlyweds. Here in the Pocono Mountains, the name Callie’s is sweetly synonymous with handmade fudge, chocolate-covered anything, and classic old-school candy.
What We Loved on Our Visit
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The Candy: We tried everything from chocolate-covered gummy bears to fudge and licorice. One of their signature treats? Potato chips dipped in chocolate — wild, but totally delicious.
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Christmas Magic: They had gorgeous holiday displays all around the shop — garlands, ornaments, and even candy-themed wreaths — making the whole place feel cozy and festive.
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Pictures & Memories: I snapped tons of photos of the chocolates and our favorite Christmas arrangements while my daughter posed in front of the lolly-wall. The outdoor decorations were so fun, too — definitely worth stepping outside for a selfie.
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Sweet for Everyone: They’re super welcoming — families, couples, bus groups, you name it. And the friendly staff even let us sample a few treats while we browsed.
A Charming Town to Explore
While Callie’s was the highlight, Cresco itself is full of little treasures. It’s surrounded by adorable antique shops, cozy cafés, and scenic spots that feel like they’re straight out of a postcard. We popped into a few antique stores, grabbed a hot chocolate, and just enjoyed strolling the quiet streets with that peaceful Poconos weekend vibe.
Why Locals & Tourists Should Visit
Locals: If you haven’t made the trip in a while — or ever — Callie’s is a perfect spot for a relaxed morning or afternoon. Bring the kids, browse candy, and maybe pick up a bag of fudge or two for later.
Tourists: This is the kind of place that makes a weekend in the Poconos feel extra magical. It’s not just a candy store — it’s part of the Poconos tradition. Whether you're here for hiking, antique hunting, or a cozy getaway, Callie’s is the perfect sweet stop.
✨ Toys for Tots Drop-Off — Happening Now!
If you’re planning to visit this season, don’t forget to bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots! Your small act of kindness can brighten a child's holiday.
Pro Tips for Visiting
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Visit early – The candy kitchen opens at 10 a.m., making it the perfect time to avoid crowds and get the freshest batch of fudge!
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Bring a cooler or insulated bag – If you’re buying fudge or chocolate for the trip home, it helps keep things fresh.
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Try the classics—and something wild – Go for a favorite, but don’t be afraid to try something unusual (chocolate-covered bark, anyone?).
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Book for a group – Traveling with family or friends? Callie’s welcomes bus tours and group visits with a little notice.
- TOYS FOR TOTS DROP OFF -- With the holidays coming, make sure to bring an unwrapped new toy to make this holiday extra special!
Final Thoughts
Our stop at Callie’s Candy Kitchen felt like a warm hug: sweet, nostalgic, and full of love. It’s not just a candy shop — it’s a piece of Poconos history. Whether you’re passing through or planning a stay, make sure this charming spot is on your itinerary.
Let me know when you’re planning your next Poconos adventure — I’d be happy to recommend more hidden gems like Callie’s for you and your family!
Until next time,
Kacey
