Business
Candy Hall of Fame Building a Sweet New Home on Chicago’s Mag Mile
A rendering of the planned Candy Hall of Fame Experience. (Canvas Real Estate / P. Hodges)
Chicago introduced the world to Wrigley, Brach's and Mars, so it only makes sense that the city has been chosen as the permanent home of the Candy Hall of Fame Experience.
The National Confectionery Sales Association announced Thursday that Chicago was selected for the 60,000-square-foot destination over Orlando and New York City. The attraction is slated to open in 2027 at 830 N. Michigan Ave.
“For more than a century, Chicago has been home to some of the most iconic names in American candy," said Shelly Clarey, chairman of the association. “Establishing the Candy Hall of Fame Experience here reflects the city’s deep connection to the industry and creates a home to celebrate the people who helped build it.”
Jeff Rubin, a Candy Hall of Fame inductee and the creative mind concepts including FAO Schweetz and Dylan’s Candy Bar, has been tapped to bring the vision to life. He's assembled a team of veteran designers to help develop an experience that highlights the history of the confectionery world, as well as the innovators behind the brands and sweets.
The Candy Hall of Fame was founded in 1971. Its inductees include Chicago confectionary giants like William Wrigley, Salvatore Ferrara and Frank Mars.
Check out WTTW's “Chicago Stories: Candy Capital” for more on the city's one-time status as a candy-making hub.
Contact Patty Wetli: [email protected]
