Manitowoc is a lovely little lake town with tons of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. You could do worse for a day trip than this quaint little spot. And while you’re there, make sure you save room for dessert and head over to Beerntsen’s, a local candy shop that’s been serving the community for more than 80 years.
The Beertnsen family has been making candy since 1905. Founder Joseph Beerntsen was making candy in Chicago, Milwaukee and Green Bay before he settled in Manitowowc to open up his own shop.
In 1932, Joe Beerntsen settled in Manitowoc and opened "Beerntsen’s Candies" at its present location. He operated the store until his retirement in 1958, when he sold the store to his son Richard, (Dick) Beerntsen. Richard and his wife, Ione, operated the store until late 1983, when their son, Tom, returned to Manitowoc to continue the Beerntsen candy tradition with his wife Penny.
From their website: "The familiar old-fashioned American ice cream parlor atmosphere is still present. Maybe it has something to do with the original black walnut booths, candy cases, and entry area arches of yesteryear, as well as the old, traditional way of conducting a candy and ice cream business that allows this piece of nostalgia to remain. It is a refreshing step back into time for old and young alike when you visit Beerntsen’s."
Honestly, the whole place can be a bit of a sensory overload - but really in the best possible way. You'll have a difficult time deciding which delicious treats to try. If you head here in the summer, bring a cooler so you can take plenty of chocolates home with you.
Beerntsen's is a time capsule, capturing a time gone by in perfect relief and helping customers relive their childhood through candy, chocolate and ice cream.
Beerntsen's is a moment in time, held forever when you walk through the door. It's amazingly high-quality candies and chocolates, hand-made in the traditional way. It's a perfect place to spend a few hours reminiscing.
If you're ever along the Lake Michigan coast in this part of the state, you absolutely cannot skip a trip to Beerntsen's. This unique, wonderful shop is just waiting for you to discover it.
