



About
When visiting Galveston, a stop at La King's Confectionery is a must. Step into this old-fashioned one-stop shop to cure your sweet tooth! Walking in, you'll be transported back to the 1920s, where La King's draws their inspiration. Established in 1976, this confectionery has become quite famous. You'll find it on almost every "things to do" list in Galveston.
The story begins in 1927 with Jimmy King, a candy maker who learned old-world techniques. His son, Jack King, moved to Galveston in 1976. He dreamt of creating an old-fashioned confectionery. Moreover, he didn't want to just look the part. Therefore, he uses 19th-century formulas and methods as well as traditional equipment. You can be sure you're getting the real deal here!
Located right on the Strand, you'll find it hard to miss. There is street parking along the streets; however, it often gets busy in this district. Don't worry - there are public lots nearby! Colorful blue and red doors will greet you. Additionally, you'll spot this shop by the large awning sign and a-frame sign welcoming you outside the front door.
The sweet smell of coffee and sweets will fill your nose as soon as you push through the entrance. You will be greeted by friendly employees who look the part. Dressed up in traditional uniforms, they wear classic ice cream parlor hats. La King's is not just a shop, but an experience!
Directly in front and to your right, you'll find the candy counter. On the front left, you will find the newest addition to the business - the coffee shop. Situated in the back left corner is the ice cream parlor. Lastly, on the back right, you will find the taffy-making area, where you can watch saltwater taffy being made!
Vibe
La King's Confectionery is like stepping into a vintage 1920s candy store! From the outside, it's hard to miss with its bright blue and red doors, a big awning sign, and a welcoming A-frame design. The building's vintage charm fits right in with the Strand's old-school vibe.
The interior is a feast for the senses, pure nostalgia! The old-school look of the facade flows into the store, with staff dressed in classic ice cream parlor uniforms manning the iconic candy counter, which is front and center. The cozy coffee shop to the left and the ice cream parlor tucked in the back add to the allure.
Seating is functional and straightforward, perfect for grabbing a quick break while you enjoy a sundae or a float. The real star here, though, is the atmosphere.
Whether you savor a scoop of Purity ice cream, marvel at the taffy-pulling demonstrations, or browse the rows of candy, you'll leave feeling like a kid again.
La King's Confectionery: Menu & Drinks
The store serves Purity ice cream, which is Texas's first ice cream manufacturer, founded in Galveston in 1889. They offer familiar favorites, including strawberry, cookies' n' cream, mint chocolate chip, and rocky road. In addition, there are some more unique flavors such as lemon custard, New York cheesecake, coffee bean flake, and banana walnut! The scoops are generous and well worth every cent!
The candy counter seems endless at La King's! Some of La King's classic specialties are pecan pralines, peanut brittle, fudge, and saltwater taffy. Also, they offer more modern candies, such as sour strips and gummies. Additionally, you can order a sundae, split, or float.
Pro tip: They make saltwater taffy in-house every day. Live taffy-pull times are posted on a board inside.
The newest addition to the shop is the coffee shop! Serving up freshly brewed Duncan coffee and delicious espresso. In this area, you'll also find milkshakes and soda available. If you're looking to purchase a soda for later, you'll find glass bottles in the fridge by the entrance.
As you walk in, you'll be immediately met by a long table stacked with cotton candy to go! Of course, there are classic flavors such as blue raspberry. However, most of these aren't your typical cotton candy flavors. Some of their other flavors include pickle, pizza, watermelon, birthday cake, and even buttered popcorn!
Satisfy your sweet tooth at La King's Confectionery on your Galveston vacation and enjoy classic treats in a vintage setting.
Local Tips
- It can get pretty busy in here, expect a short wait.
- Taffy pull demonstration times are listed inside the shop.
- Have your taffy shipped home after your Texas vacation.
- Check its social media for special events and discounts.