It all started with a man named Julius Boehm, a multi-talented and fascinating Austrian who came to the United States in the 1940s. After moving to the Northwest for the sublime skiing, Mr. Boehm employed one of his wide array of skills—candy making, which he’d learned from his grandparents, and Boehm’s Chocolates was born. Considered the “Willy Wonka” of the Northwest, Mr. Boehm was highly involved in his community, from teaching swimming in Issaquah to creating his own ski school, and you can see that commitment to community and the local economy during this great little tour at Boehm’s.
Walk through the factory and watch authentic “candy dippers” (there are only 150 left in the country who still do this) finish truffles, meet candy makers and try a variety of their chocolates, from their handmade truffles to their creamy caramels. You’ll also get a great tour of Mr. Boehm’s beautiful Edelweiss Chalet, where he lived for many years, and the High Alpine Chapel, which he built in honor of mountain climbers (did we mention he also climbed Mt. Rainier for the third time--at age 80?). And at the end, stop by their shop and buy a box of truffles for you and a scoop of ice cream for your sidekick while you sit in the little garden and contemplate everything that is good about chocolate.
Don't Miss: While touring the Edelweiss Chalet, check out the bells on the kitchen cabinets. If your tour guide doesn’t mention what they’re for—ask her. (Moms, you may consider doing this after you hear her response!)
We Suggest: Arriving about ten minutes before your scheduled tour—they start promptly and you may be left behind if you’re late. If you want to see candy being made, schedule your tour on a weekday before 2 p.m. On weekdays after 2:30 p.m., weekends and holidays, candy making will not be viewable during a tour. However, Boehm's does have monitors throughout the factory to help display their normal production practices if you can't make it during a candy making time.
Cost: $5/person; 4 & under Free. During the off season (Sept 16-June 19), there is a $50 minimum for a group tour, regardless of the age of participants.
Details: Tours are approximately 45 minutes; call 425-392-6652 or fill out the online form to schedule a tour.
255 N.E. Gilman Blvd.
Issaquah, Wa 98027
425-392-6652
Online: boehmscandies.com
photo: Erin Cranston
