Hershey's Retail Store-Chicago,IL

So I was in Chicago all last week, and I was unable to update the blog, but I did happen to stop by a few sweet shops around my hotel in Downtown Chicago, mainly near The Magnificent Mile. The first of my stops was at the Hershey's Retail Store on North Michigan Avenue. This store has a cozy feel to it, and almost brings you back into the beginning days of Hershey's existence, with a modern twist. 

You're initially greeted by a classic theater style Hershey's sign, and once you enter, you're welcomed by a smiling sales person offering a free sample of one of Hershey's chocolates. 

The walls are all decorated with all the Hershey brands, and are generally separated throughout the store by brand. Pictured above and below is the centerpiece of the whole store. It enables customers to become a "factory worker for a day," where you can make your own mix of Hershey's chocolates that cascade from the top of the ceiling to a bucket placed directly under the contraption. It's very interactive and great for kids, and even if you decide not to make your own mix, they do offer you a complimentary factory hat as a souvenir.

 

The customized gifts don't stop at mixing your own batch of chocolate, you also have the chance to be on the wrapper of your very own Hershey's bar (pictured below). This station at the store allows customers to place a picture of themselves on the wrapper, and also write a small message. 

 

Once you've gathered enough gifts and items to bring home with you, they have one more surprise to fill your sugar rush. Just in the back of the store, they also have a bake shop that offers delicious cupcakes, pastries, and beverages. When I was in, the weather outside was extremely cold compared to the West Coast so I chose to get one of their chocolaty Hershey's hot cocoa's, which of course did not disappoint. They also had a special that day, I'm not quite sure if it was seasonal, but they did offer flavors that you could have mixed into your hot cocoa. The flavor of the day when I was in was coconut..yummy :)