Shane's is a place I discovered when I first moved to Philadelphia. It was described to me as the oldest candy store in America. When you go in, you will not dispute this claim. Opened as a candy store in 1863, it has remained a candy store ever since. Little has changed of the interior, so the display cases are still the ones you would have seen glared through drooling over what you were going to spend your pennies on as if you would have grown up in the early 1900's . I love the feel of nostalgia when entering the famed candy store. My favorite time to go is around Christmas and Easter when Shane's windows are decorated with giant chocolate Santa's and Easter bunnies.
Although Shane's does sell some pre-packaged sweets, they still use the same handmade candy making techniques that made the store what it is today. Old candy molds decorate the interior of the shop when they are not being used to create the homemade confections. It is not unusual to see candies you have never seen before since Shane's still makes candies from days gone by. Shane's has become the anchor of the Old City neighborhood with other businesses around trying to fit in with their old world style.
Find your way with 157 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Laurel Hill Cemetery" in Philadelphia is equal parts public garden, sculpture park, historical campus and graveyard. It's a truly special spot...
by
The "Fabric Workshop and Museum" in Philadelphia is one of the best places to see contemporary art - it's a central overlooks gem!
by
"Material Culture" in Philadelphia isn't just a store. It is a world. A global journey. An aesthetic trek through history & cultures...
by
"Duross & Langel" is a Philadelphia soap shop. Scented with fruit and herbs, I'm afraid they're works of art almost too beautiful to use in the shower...
by
The "Woodmere Art Museum" and its mansion tell the story of Philadelphia and its artists from the 1800s to now. Don't miss its gift shop or back gallery!
by
The "Penn Museum of Anthropology" in Philadelphia would be a marquee attraction in a smaller town. Don't overlook this jewel and its collections, trust me.
by
The "Simeone Foundation" Philadelphia is one of the finest private collections of classic cars in the US. This out-of-the-way treasure is a must see...
by
"Greene Street Consignment" in Philadelphia makes it easy to find great pieces on their tidy, colorful shelves. My recommendation: check the clearance racks!
by
"Tria" Philadelphia is my favorite sophisticated yet cozy bar to explore the divine trinity of wine, beer and cheese. Perhaps my favorite is Sunday School.
by
"Hokka Hokka" in Philadelphia is the sushi bar/restaurant my husband and I start so many of our dates. This balance of tasty and beauty is something else.
by
How "Night Kitchen" get its cinnamon rolls to absorb so much butter is one of the great mysteries of Philadelphia. It's my favorite bakery in Chestnut Hill.
by
Besides the packed schedule of shows, they are also a daytime coffee shop that opens its bar at noon. They have a great (rotating) wine selection as well!
by
157 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 157 Insider Tips