Sweet Surprises Await at Hammond’s Candy Factory in Denver
If your family’s road trip to Denver needs a dash of whimsy and a sprinkle of nostalgia, Hammond’s Candy Factory is the perfect stop. Since 1920, this Mile High confectionery has been handcrafting lollipops, candy canes, and chocolatey delights with old-fashioned flair. A free factory tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how 5,000 pounds of candy are made each day. Oh, and you’ll leave with a sweet treat in hand.
My daughter and I were in Denver for a national student competition and were looking for fun group activities. Our visit to Hammond’s and a tour of their factory didn’t disappoint, because it even allowed us to stock up on sugary treats to devour for the long conference days ahead.
Getting There and Parking
Hammond’s Candy Factory is located on the outskirts of Denver, at 5735 North Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216. It’s just a short drive north of downtown, so here’s a rundown on how to get to Hammond’s Candy Factory.
- Driving: From I-25, take exit 215 for 58th Avenue and head east. Turn left on Washington Street and look for the red-and-white signage.
- Parking: Free on-site parking is available in the factory lot. It’s spacious enough for vans and RVs, though spots can fill up during peak hours.
- Public Transit: RTD’s Route 8 bus stops nearby, but service may be limited depending on your starting point. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are reliable alternatives.
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How to Book Your Factory Tour
Advance booking is required for your free factory tour. Bookings must be made at least 24 hours ahead of your visit via Hammond’s website, so if you’re hoping to visit same-day, call 303-333-5588 to check tour availability. Tours are complimentary, but reservations fill quickly during holidays and school breaks, so plan ahead.
What to Expect on the Tour
From the moment you step inside, the air is thick with the scent of caramel and peppermint. Large video screens and wall-to-wall windows give visitors an up-close view of the candy-making process. See the bubbling copper kettles and the rhythmic twist of striped candy canes. You’ll learn about Hammond’s century-long history, watch candy makers in action, and see how each piece is packed with care.
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Tours are family-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and run Monday through Saturday between 9:15 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. Each tour lasts about 30 minutes, making it an easy add-on to your Denver itinerary.
Don’t Miss the Candy Shop
After your tour, swing by the retail store to stock up on Hammond’s classics. Think sour balls, chocolate bars, and seasonal favorites, to name a few. The options are numerous. It’s a great place to grab gifts or let kids pick out their own sweet souvenir.
Whether you’re a candy connoisseur or just looking for a fun family outing, Hammond’s Candy Factory delivers a delightful dose of Denver history and sugar-coated charm. Add it to your itinerary and let the memories melt in your mouth.
The Details
Address: 5735 North Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216
How long to spend: Plan on about one hour. The tours are about 30 minutes long.
Cost: Tours are free (advanced booking required), but the candy shop sells all sorts of treats.
Hours: Tours run Monday through Saturday, between 9:15 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 9 to 4 p.m. Closed on Sundays.
Website: https://hammondscandies.com/pages/visit-store
Phone: (303) 333-5588
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