Love chocolate? Whether you prefer handcrafted fudge or gourmet chocolate makers that go from bean to bar, there are plenty of candy stores in North Carolina to satisfy your sweet tooth. This is one of the best road trips in North Carolina, and it's definitely one of the sweetest we've ever put together. Travel through the Tar Heel State to some of the best old-school chocolate shops in North Carolina and amass a large number of sweet treats to bring home...what more could you want in a road trip? Let's find the best chocolate in NC!

Simply follow the interactive Google Map. It will guide you to each delectable stop on our sweetest road trip ever....

1. Kilwin's Ice Cream and Candy (Wilmington)

In the summer months, visitors and locals alike flock to Kilwin's for their delicious ice cream. Don't forget, Kilwin's makes mouthwatering fudge and other sweet treats as well! While they have expanded throughout several states, you'll be starting your sweet road trip at the Wilmington location. After just one visit, you'll see why they've been in business for over 80 years!For hours of operation or to order online, check out their website. It's one of the best ice cream and candy stores in North Carolina!

2. Videri Chocolate Factory (Raleigh)

The Videri Chocolate Factory has an exclusive chocolate counter where visitors can purchase their goods. Handcrafted chocolates, chocolate bars, seasonal bonbons, caramels: oh my! You can even take tours to see how the chocolate is made, from bean to bar. It's one of the best chocolate shops in North Carolina and you won't be disappointed. For more information, visit their website.

3. Escazú Artisan Chocolates (Raleigh)

At Escazú, they source the finest beans and then roast them, completing every step of the chocolate-making process on-site. The result is a beautiful variety of chocolate to choose from. They've got bars and boxes filled with sweet creations like those seen above (in case you were wondering, they're spiced moonshine, honey chamomile, lychee-lemon, and honey liquor. yum!). Their creations are so beautiful they look like works of art! You'll find some of the best chocolate in North Carolina here. For more photos and information, visit their Facebook.

4. Matthew's Chocolates (Hillsborough)

Head to this eclectic shop in Hillsborough. You'll find handcrafted truffles and gourmet chocolates of all varieties, plus heavenly gelato, cupcakes, and ice cream. Yum! This is one of the sweetest things to do in North Carolina. Visit their Facebook, though you might not want to do it if you're hungry for some decadent North Carolina chocolate.

5. Black Mountain Chocolate (Winston-Salem)

This bean-to-bar chocolate maker has a factory tour, so you can witness the chocolate-making process firsthand. The location also features a bakery, gelato cafe, and a retail gift shop. There are plenty of chocolates to choose from and they even provide samples! They even offer amazing chocolate cocktails for adults.View a menu and more information on their website.

6. Van's Chocolates (Hendersonville)

This delightful sweet shop may be a little off the beaten path, but it's well worth the effort to find it. Inside is a roomy haven filled with an aroma that'll inspire you to want (or need!) one of everything. From gourmet chocolates to other assorted sweets, there's a little something for everyone here. They've recently remodeled and we challenge you to walk in and not want to walk out with everything in the store. From peanut butter kisses to chocolate-coated marzipan, these sweets alone make this one of the best road trips in North Carolina.Visit their website for more information.

7. Dillsboro Chocolate Factory (Dillsboro)

This charming little hometown shop is one of the best candy stores in North Carolina. They sell homemade fudge, chocolate treats, assorted candies, handmade peanut brittle, and more. They've also got over 30 different kinds of jerky if for some reason you don't care for sweets!Check out their Facebook for more information.

How about it? Which of these spots is your favorite for the best chocolates in NC? Tell us in the comments!

Road trips are an ideal way to eat your way across the Tar Heel State. Check out this Taco Trail for another signature Only In North Carolina road trip!