You could spend an entire day exploring this flagship store. There is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. The room that has "snow" falling is a favorite with my kids, as is the Dylan's Candy Bar area. They have a large project area where kids and adults alike can make dipped candles, jar candles, and wax casts of their hands. The on-site restaurant is delicious, and there is also a food-court area within the main building. For the cook in the family, there is also a kitchen gadget area. Vera Bradley lovers will find a large selection of bags. One of the best parts- this is a free attraction! Little ones will be happiest in a stroller so you aren't constantly telling them, "Don't touch that!"
This is excellent time for the entire family! There is so much to do it is difficult to see and do everything in one trip, but it is do-able. They have a wonderful candle dipping activity where the kids can choose a design of white candle and dip it to make a colored candle. The kids can experiment with color and design. We go every year because there is always something new. Plus, the candles for the grown up are great to have at home, a souvenir for grown ups!
For the past three years, our family has been visiting the YC Flagship store. Not once have we allotted extra time to eat at Chandler's, but we've heard rave reviews from neighbors and other patrons.
Key points to consider:
- Small children should be in strollers or baby carriers to avoid getting their hands on breakables. Breakables are *everywhere*.
- Discuss your options with the other adult(s) in your party before heading out on this adventure. Grab a map of the store - it is HUGE - to "plan the attack".
- There is a "stuff your own animal" area much like Build-A-Bear located in the children's area. It is also right next to a "make your own candy" area ... so ... go in w/ your NO face on if needed.
- Don't miss the animatronic show next to the Christmas Village (and discounted scent area)! It's kooky and old fashioned but you just might like it.
- Dad will be surprised to find steins, knights, a drawbridge and a true king's chair inside (just past the village collectibles area).
- Browsing the entire store will take you a LONG TIME. Plan for that.
- Candle dipping, making and wax hands are all relatively inexpensive alternatives to stocking your car full of jar candles. This also allows your kids to get in on the fun while you shop. :)
We go to Yankee Candle every April to enjoy the atmosphere. There is a museum on sight and some candle making demos. However, it really is a place to shop and if you love candles this is the place. They have very scent imaginable. The kids love to smell all the votives and they have kids diversions everywhere. Santa is usually there, Mrs. Claus is often there, there are animatronic singers and snow falling in the Bavarian Christmas center. The kids enjoy it every year (ages 7,7,4). We usually go around Easter and there is always a scavenger hunt. I am sure they have other avtivities during different parts of the year. There is no fee to enter but be prepared to part with some money for candles and accessories.
The Yankee Candle Company began in 1969 in a kitchen here, and the rest is history—at least, the company thinks so. At this complex that seems to sprout new buildings every season, you can dip your own candles, visit a Bavarian Christmas vilage (a toy factory with Santa and Mrs. Claus), and a museum that demonstrates candle making through history. Of course, selling candles is the main focus of the Yankee Candle Company, and there’s a huge variety. Chandler’s Restaurant is on site if you get hungry. Call for a schedule of special events. My family’s favorites are the Teddy Bear Tea and the Fancy Nancy Luncheon.
You'll want small kids in the stroller so they don't run off or break too much, but it's a great place to go while out in this area. There's a really nice Christmas shop open all year long, too. So many candles, so little time!