I never realized that all these years I've actually been visiting the oldest candy store in Minnesota. It was only after I saw a video on YouTube that I realized the amazing history of it.

Canelake's Candies has been around since 1905. Check my math: That's almost 119 years. Impressive! Youtuber KristenInMN says it's the oldest candy store in the state. I bet she's right.

The store is located in downtown Virginia, Minnesota. Virginia is a real "downtown" town. Chesnut Street is lined with many long-time businesses from one end to the other.

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google maps
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Where did the name come from?

Brothers Nick, Tom, Gust, and Christ Canelake started the business back in 1905. It relocated a couple of times but was always in Downtown Virginia. It's been at the same location at 414 Chesnutt Street Since 1917.

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They still make the candies the same way, using copper kettles and only making small batches. I can tell you from experience, it is really good stuff.

Canelake's Candies Facebook
Canelake's Candies Facebook
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My grandparents used to stop in every time they visited town. They had moved away years ago, but Canelake's Candies was something they always needed when they returned home.

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Canelake's recently posted an update for a special they have for Labor Day Weekend. Look at these caramel apples!

I've always loved their turtles. They are a definite must-try if you visit.

Virginia, Minnesota is about an hour north of Duluth, Minnesota on the Iron Range. It's around a 2 1/2 hour drive from the Twin Cities.

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