Chicago: Finding the Perfect Souvenir

Since 1939, Blommer Chocolate Factory has been roasting cocoa beans and Chicago folks have been inhaling them — both figuratively and literally. Blommer has expanded from a family-run shop to the largest producer of chocolate in North America, but the local West Loop factory and store still pipe out sweet-scented emissions, which you'll smell long before you enter. Be sure to sample different chocolates before buying (try the white); there are also specialty items like chocolate-covered pineapple, apricot brandy cordials and peanut butter malt balls. For non-chocolate-lovers, there are nuts and gummi bears as well as sugar-free options.

• 1. Blommer Chocolate Factory
  600 West Kinzie Street, Chicago, IL 60610; 312-492-1336 41.889411-87.643584 blommer.com