We're just going to cut to the chase here: It's going to be Halloween in about a month and we've got some serious candy brain going on. It's already lining store shelves and crispness in the air has us practically tasting chocolate and sugar. But, the reality is that we've still got over a month to go before we can legitimately eat all the leftover candy that we bought too much of on purpose. While we wait, the only thing we can do is talk about candy. And, this website is no exception. Today, we're going to tell you about one of our favorite candy stores in Maine: The Goldenrod in York Beach.

The Goldenrod in York Beach has been creating sugary concoctions for over 120 summers. The sheer authenticity of being around as an active business in Maine is something to rave about. But, the accolades don't end there.

There are dozens of candy stores in Maine. Many are homegrown and truly local. All have shelves full of sugar. But, none of them rival the feel of stepping into a candy store that is also a soda fountain and a true restaurant.

The Goldenrod was built in 1896, in the exact spot it stands to this day. Edward and Mattie Talpey created the sugary stalwart with a sweet tooth and a dream. Lucky for them, fate was in collusion and the very next year the first electric trains of the Portsmouth, Kittery and York Railway came to town.

In fact, as an important stop on the route, word of the incredible candy store and soda fountain spread.

The Talpeys started the store with taffy as the main event. Using a special recipe that is still used (exactly!) today, they churned out perfectly created taffy known as "Goldenrod Kisses." These are still made today, in the windows of the shop, putting on the best show in the area for admiring Mainers and visitors.

There are many varieties of taffy from which to choose, including a sampler which allows you to try just about everything you've got a hankering for.

We love the taffy here and it's certainly a main attraction, but what makes Goldenrod one of the best is the soda fountain. Slide up and get your own Goldenrod Lime Rickey. Then, try the candy! There are bins and bins of delicious penny candy-style assortments that kids will love and grown-ups might just remember.

The talented folks at Goldenrod don't just smash it when it comes to taffy and the vintage stuff. They also make a mean chocolate-covered-anything. Try any of the chocolate covered caramels and make sure to bring some home with you!

But wait, folks! It gets even better! The Goldenrod serves one of the best breakfasts we've ever had. From pancakes to omelettes, there isn't much you can get that won't satiate. Then, when you're done with breakfast, stick around and eat some candy while you wait for lunch.

Once lunch time hits, make sure to grab a sandwich or lobster roll.

Top it off with a shake or sundae and then you can head back to the beach (or the car if it's this time of year) to enjoy all the delicious sugary memories you've just made. Oh wait!...

You also need to head next door to the adjacent shop that will allow you to buy a few extra special candy-related gifts.

The Goldenrod is located at 2 Railroad Avenue, York Beach, Maine 03909 / (207) 363-2621. But hurry, they're only open until Columbus Day!

Now that we've got you hankering for candy, you'll probably want to think about how to work it off. Check out these cool rail trails to leisurely work off some of those delicious calories.