Step Right Up! Austin’s Big Top Candy Shop Is the Sweetest Show in Texas
A Circus of Sweets
Since 2007, Big Top Candy Shop has been the crown jewel of South Congress, delighting locals and tourists alike. Imagine stepping into a time machine that whisks you to an old-fashioned circus, complete with colorful signs, clown art, and a fully operational soda fountain. Oh, and don’t forget to say hi to Peanuts the Elephant, proudly perched on the shop’s entrance sign.
Inside, you’ll find a mesmerizing display of over 300 bulk candy varieties and more than 2,000 types of wrapped sweets. From classic root beer barrels to modern-day treats, it’s like walking into Willy Wonka’s wildest dream. But the real showstopper? Big Top was the first candy shop in the U.S. to sell chocolate-covered bacon. That’s right—salty, sweet, and revolutionary.
Soda Fountains and Sweet Nostalgia
What’s a trip to Big Top without indulging at their old-fashioned soda fountain? Whether you’re sipping on a cherry phosphate or diving into a classic ice cream sundae, this isn’t just a sugar rush; it’s a full-blown journey back in time. With every sip and bite, you’re reminded of simpler days when a trip to the candy store was the highlight of the week.
Circus-Core Cool
Big Top isn’t just a candy store; it’s a vibe. Its “circus-core” decor—think dark wood, vibrant posters, and nostalgic charm—turns a simple visit into an experience. Even if you’ve never been under a big top or heard the faint call of a ringmaster, this shop will make you feel like a kid seeing the circus for the first time.
Why Southern Living Fell in Love
Southern Living nailed it: Big Top Candy Shop captures the heart of Texas with its commitment to nostalgia, flavor, and good old-fashioned fun. So, the next time you’re in Austin, skip the souvenir shop and grab a bag of candy instead. You’ll leave with sticky fingers, a happy heart, and a story worth sharing.
Who knew the best circus in Texas doesn’t have lions or trapeze artists? Just candy. Lots and lots of candy.
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Gallery Credit: Landon King
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