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Discover the Sanders & Morley Candy Makers Tour in Michigan

Step inside the sweet world of Sanders & Morley Candy Makers, the iconic Michigan-based chocolatier famous for sea salt caramels, Bumpy Cakes, dessert toppings, and gourmet chocolates. This behind-the-scenes tour lets visitors watch real candy production while enjoying rich aromas of chocolate, caramel, and roasted nuts.
Why it’s special:
Sanders is one of Michigan’s oldest and most beloved candy brands, and the factory offers a rare look at modern chocolate-making combined with traditional confectionery techniques dating back to 1875.

History/Story of Sanders & Morley Candy Makers

Sanders Fine Chocolates was founded in Detroit by Fred Sanders in 1875 and quickly became known for its sundaes, chocolate toppings, and hand-dipped sweets. Decades later, the Morley Candy Company—another Detroit confectionery favorite—acquired the Sanders brand and continued its tradition of small-batch candies. The combined factory in Clinton Township is now the heart of Sanders chocolate production and home to its famous dessert toppings and handcrafted chocolates.

What You’ll See & Do at the Sanders Factory Tour

Watch chocolatiers creating caramel, melting chocolate, and forming candies
See enrobing machines coat caramels, nuts, and clusters in flowing chocolate
Learn how Sanders makes its iconic Bumpy Cake toppings and hot fudge
View the cooling tunnels and packaging lines in action
Sample fresh chocolates, caramels, or seasonal treats
Explore the Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe located inside the factory
Purchase factory-exclusive deals, bulk treats, and Michigan-made favorites

Hands-On Elements: Tasting samples, aroma displays, chocolate ingredient boards.
Photo/Video Policy: Photos allowed in viewing areas; no flash near production lines.
Souvenirs & Extras: Bumpy Cake slices, chocolates, caramel toppings, gift tins, bulk candy, apparel, and Michigan-themed gifts.

Pricing of the Sanders & Morley Candy Makers Tour

Self-Guided Factory Viewing Corridor: Free
Guided Group Tours: Typically free (must be booked in advance)
Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe: Prices vary by item
Samples often included

Practical Info for Visiting Sanders

Duration: 20–45 minutes
Format: Self-guided tour with large viewing windows + optional group-guided tours
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round; weekdays offer the best production viewing
Working Hours: Typically 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (shop hours may vary)
Audience: Families, chocolate lovers, school groups, foodies
Accessibility: Fully accessible viewing corridor
Safety & Restrictions:

Visitors stay behind glass for food safety
No outside food in the viewing corridor
Languages: English
Group Visits: Available for schools, scouts, and clubs with reservation
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothing; light jacket in winter
Facilities: Retail shop, ice cream counter, restrooms, parking
Closures & Downtime: Production varies—some lines may not run every day

Nearby

The Mall at Partridge Creek
George George Memorial Park
Clinton River Trails
Detroit Zoo (20–25 minute drive)

FAQs About Visiting Sanders & Morley Candy Makers

Will I see chocolate being made?
Most days, yes—weekdays are the best time to view active production on the enrobing and packaging lines.

Are samples included?
Yes—visitors typically receive a complimentary chocolate or caramel sample.

Can kids do the tour?
Absolutely—the viewing corridor is family-friendly and stroller accessible.

Do they still make Bumpy Cake here?
The factory produces the famous Bumpy Cake icing and toppings, though final cake assembly happens at select partner bakeries.

Can I buy factory-exclusive items?
Yes—the Factory Store sells limited-edition flavors, discounted seconds, and items not found in regular retail shops.