What is the Big Top Candy Shop and what is its theme?

Big Top Candy Shop is a notable local candy destination in Austin that has been a South Congress staple since October 2007. The shop is themed with antique circus memorabilia and refers to itself as "The Most Amazing Candy Store the World has Ever Known."

Where are the Big Top Candy Shop locations in Austin?

The original location is situated at 1706 South Congress Avenue in Austin, Texas. A second location opened in Austin's Hyde Park area at 417 E. 43rd St. on January 31, 2020.

What makes their milkshakes and malts special?

Their traditional shakes and malts are made using real Blue Bell ice cream instead of soft serve.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Big Top Candy Shop in Austin

Big Top Candy Shop

Step into a whimsical world of sweets at Big Top Candy Shop on South Congress. This circus-themed haven features an old-fashioned soda fountain, real Blue Bell ice cream shakes, and thousands of nostalgic and international candies.

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What kind of sweets and treats can I find here?

The shop offers more than 400 bulk candies and over 3,000 wrapped candies, including modern and nostalgic sweets, imported treats, vintage candies, handcrafted truffles, and saltwater taffy. Additionally, they feature specialty chocolates, fudge, and an old-fashioned soda fountain and ice cream case.

What to know

Big Top Candy Shop has been a beloved staple of Austin’s vibrant South Congress Avenue since October 2007. Located at 1706 South Congress Avenue, this whimsical store presents itself as “The Most Amazing Candy Store the World has Ever Known.” Stepping inside feels like entering a vintage carnival, as the entire shop is beautifully decked out in antique circus memorabilia that sets a nostalgic, playful tone. The shop is famous for its incredible variety of sweets, offering a massive selection that caters to every kind of sugar craving. Visitors can explore more than 400 bulk candies and over 3,000 wrapped candies. The inventory includes a diverse mix of modern and nostalgic candies, ranging from imported delights like Curly Wurlies to vintage treats like Mallo Cups. You will also find gourmet handcrafted truffles, specialty chocolates, fudge, and baskets filled with every flavor of saltwater taffy imaginable. Beyond the packaged sweets, Big Top Candy Shop boasts a fully functioning, old-fashioned soda fountain and ice cream case. Unlike many modern shops that rely on soft serve, Big Top serves traditional shakes and malts made with real Blue Bell ice cream. Founded by Brandon Hodge, the candy shop has become such a notable local destination that it expanded its operations to serve even more of Austin's candy fans. On January 31, 2020, Big Top opened a second location at 417 E. 43rd St. in Austin’s historic Hyde Park neighborhood, celebrating the grand opening with free candy tastings and face painting. Whether you are visiting the original South Congress location or the Hyde Park spot, it remains a must-visit treasure for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Visitor tips

Be sure to order a traditional shake or malt, which is made with real Blue Bell ice cream instead of soft serve.
If you are exploring northern Austin, you can also visit their second location in the Hyde Park neighborhood at 417 E. 43rd St.
Call the shop ahead of time at (512) 462-2220 if you want to check the availability of specific nostalgic or imported candies.

Nearby context

Located on the bustling South Congress Avenue, Big Top Candy Shop sits in one of Austin's most walkable and eclectic shopping districts. After browsing the endless rows of sweets, you can continue your neighborhood exploration by stopping by Prima Dora, a nearby gift shop filled with local charm. If you are looking to transition from nostalgic sodas to adult beverages later in the evening, the nearby bar Watertrade offers a sophisticated spot to relax just a short walk away.

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