Your Guide to Old Port Candy Co: A Sweet Escape in Portland, Maine

Old Port Candy Co Introduce

Welcome to Old Port Candy Co, a delightful and must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth in the heart of Portland, Maine. Nestled within the charming and historic Old Port district, this beloved local establishment offers a nostalgic and mouth-watering experience for visitors and locals alike. It’s more than just a store; it’s a vibrant part of the community, known for its extensive selection and friendly atmosphere. As a women-owned and small business, Old Port Candy Co embodies the spirit of Maine's independent entrepreneurial scene. It’s a place where you can find an incredible variety of confections, from the candies of your childhood to unique, artisanal creations. Whether you're a lifelong Mainer or just visiting, a stop here is a truly sweet highlight of any day.

The store prides itself on being a one-stop-shop for all things sugary, with a carefully curated selection that caters to every taste. The sheer variety ensures that there's something new to discover with every visit. Shoppers often praise the incredible range, noting everything from homemade chocolates and fudge to a vast assortment of vintage candies and jelly beans. This commitment to variety, coupled with a focus on quality, has made Old Port Candy Co a staple in the Portland community for years. It’s a place that welcomes everyone and provides a fun, cheerful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a quick and rewarding visit.

Old Port Candy Co’s prime location at 422 Fore Street in Portland, Maine, makes it a highly accessible destination for anyone exploring the city. Situated in the picturesque Old Port, the store is just a short, pleasant walk from many of Portland's other popular attractions, including waterfront views, unique boutiques, and renowned restaurants. Its central position means it's an easy stop to add to your itinerary, whether you're strolling through the cobblestone streets after a meal or simply looking for a sweet pick-me-up. The area is known for its walkability, and Old Port Candy Co is conveniently placed to take full advantage of this. For those using a car, there are various public parking options nearby, though they can be busy during peak seasons. The store also makes an effort to be accessible to all, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the wonders within. Its location in a bustling, vibrant part of the city adds to the overall experience, making a visit to Old Port Candy Co feel like a truly local adventure.

Accessibility is a key consideration for the business. Being a small business, they understand the importance of making their treats available to as many people as possible. The presence of a wheelchair-accessible entrance speaks to this commitment, ensuring the storefront is welcoming and easy to enter for customers with mobility needs. This simple yet crucial feature enhances the overall customer experience, demonstrating the store's dedication to inclusivity. The friendly and accommodating nature of the staff, as noted by customers, further contributes to a pleasant visit for everyone.

Old Port Candy Co offers a range of services designed to make your candy-shopping experience as convenient and enjoyable as possible. Their service options are tailored to meet the needs of modern shoppers while maintaining the traditional charm of a local candy store.

In-store shopping: The primary service, inviting customers to browse the extensive selection of candies, chocolates, and treats in person. This allows for a sensory experience of seeing and smelling the confections before making a choice.
In-store pickup: For those who prefer to shop online or place an order in advance, this service allows for a quick and easy retrieval of your sweet treats, minimizing wait time.
Onsite services: This may include things like custom candy assortments, assistance from knowledgeable staff, or other in-person experiences that enhance the visit, though specific details may vary.

The emphasis on both in-person and convenient pickup options highlights the store's understanding of its customer base. They cater to both the leisurely shopper who wants to take their time exploring the aisles and the person who knows exactly what they want and needs to be on their way quickly. This flexibility is a great asset for a busy location like the Old Port.

Old Port Candy Co is distinguished by several key features and highlights that set it apart from a typical candy store. These elements contribute to its reputation as a beloved local gem.

Handmade and Unique Confections: A major highlight is the assortment of homemade fudges and chocolates. Customers rave about the variety of fudge flavors, from classic chocolate raspberry to more unique options like cappuccino. This emphasis on house-made goods adds a layer of quality and authenticity.
Extensive Variety: The store offers a huge selection of different types of candy, including vintage candies, jelly beans, salt water taffy, and bulk candy options. This variety ensures there is something for every taste and preference, making it a great stop for groups or families.
Community and Inclusivity: The business identifies as a women-owned and small business, contributing to the local economic landscape. Furthermore, its LGBTQ+ friendly status makes it a welcoming space for all members of the community, reflecting Portland’s inclusive culture.
Convenient Payment Options: To make transactions smooth and easy, the store accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. This modern convenience is a small but important detail that enhances the customer experience.
Perfect for a Quick Visit: The store's layout and service model are designed for efficiency. It's a great place for a quick stop to grab a treat, making it an ideal destination for those on a tight schedule or just passing through the Old Port.

The combination of these features—quality handmade products, a wide variety, and an inclusive and efficient environment—makes Old Port Candy Co a standout destination in Portland.

For those planning a visit to Old Port Candy Co, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 422 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101, USA

Phone: (207) 772-0600

It is always a good idea to check for their current hours of operation before making a special trip, especially during holidays or off-season. The phone number provided is the best way to get in touch with them directly for any questions.

What makes Old Port Candy Co truly worth choosing is its ability to blend nostalgic charm with modern convenience and community values. When you step inside, you’re not just buying candy; you're supporting a local, women-owned business that has become a vital part of the Portland landscape. The quality of their products, especially the homemade fudge and chocolates, is a key draw. Customers consistently praise the deliciousness and variety, noting that the treats are reasonably priced for the quality.

The exceptional customer service is another significant reason to choose this store. Reviews often mention the "top-notch" and friendly staff who are always ready to help you find the perfect sweet treat. This personal touch makes a huge difference and turns a simple shopping trip into a delightful interaction. The store's welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, coupled with its convenient location and accessibility, makes it an easy and enjoyable destination for everyone. Whether you are seeking a specific childhood favorite, a unique gift, or just a small personal indulgence, Old Port Candy Co delivers on all fronts. It’s a place that sweetens both your day and the local community.

Old Port Candy Co Details

From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Small business

Service options
In-store pickup
In-store shopping
Onsite services
Delivery

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance

Crowd
LGBTQ+ friendly

Planning
Quick visit

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Old Port Candy Co Photos

Old Port Candy Co Location

Old Port Candy Co

Maine Cumberland County Portland Old Port Fore Street

422 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101, USA

Old Port Candy Co Reviews

An average rating of ★4.5 from 103 user reviews.

fudgepriceselectionkidbagtaffyblueberrypretzelsturtlespeanut butter

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Cool store to get all different types of candy from homemade chocolates to fudge to vintage candy to jelly beans,
September 02 · Mark LoGiurato
A short walk down the street led us to a plethora of sweet treats. We went specifically to get salt water taffy for a friend and found the perfect prepared selection. Then, of course, we couldn't leave without an assortment of the handmade fudges...my favorite is the chocolate raspberry...while the roomie loves the cappuccino one!They're reasonable priced and the staff was top notch.
July 28 · Krazed One
I was genuinely excited to visit Old Port Candy Co. during my trip to Portland, Maine, and I have to say, the selection of candy was fantastic. However, I was left deeply disappointed by the behavior of the staff, which overshadowed what could have been a positive experience.Earlier this afternoon, my family and I entered the store as part of our day trip, and shortly behind us, a woman came in with a service dog. Upon entering, the staff immediately informed her that dogs weren’t allowed in the store. The woman kindly explained that her animal was a service dog, and that it was legally permitted to accompany her into public spaces. Despite this, the staff seemed unsatisfied with the explanation and asked if the dog was wearing a vest.It’s important to note that, legally, service animals are not required to wear a vest or other identifying gear, and this question is both unnecessary and inappropriate. As someone with an invisible disability and a background in health communications and advocacy, I found this line of questioning to be deeply troubling. The woman explained that it was too hot for the dog to wear the vest, but went out of her way to retrieve it from her car and show it to the staff. This act of accommodation was entirely voluntary, as she was not legally required to prove anything. Still, the staff continued to press the issue, which felt both invasive and discriminatory.But what happened next was even more egregious. The staff then proceeded to ask, “Why do you need the service animal?” This question was not only rude and unprofessional, but it was also a violation of the law. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), businesses are not permitted to ask individuals about the nature of their disability or why they need a service animal. The mere presence of a service animal should be enough, and the fact that the staff felt entitled to ask such a personal question was completely unacceptable.As someone who cares deeply about accessibility and rights for all, I found this interaction to be both shocking and disheartening. It’s clear that the staff lacked proper training on how to handle situations involving service animals, and more importantly, they demonstrated a disregard for basic respect and empathy.Given this experience, I will be making a point to avoid Old Port Candy Co. on any future trips to Maine. I can’t support a business that treats people with disabilities in such a discriminatory manner. It’s unfortunate, because the candy was great, but the way we were treated will prevent me from returning.
July 15 · Kaylene Sheran
Delicious fudge!Great selection.Wonderful service.
May 09 · AZ Dad2day
Cute and quaint candy shop located in prime real estate on the main stretch of downtown portland. Lots to choose from, whatever candy style you are on to it's here. My preference is soft sour, gummy type candies and they had a nice spread. In particular, I have to point out the sour apple (see pic). Never seen it before and it's just over the top sour goodness with intense apple flavor!If you're in the mood for sweet candy, definitely worth stopping in. Very pricey though $4.25 a 1/4 pound. Had what we thought was a relatively small bag of candy and came in at $18! Ouch!
October 19 · csneddon00