The Goldenrod
A 1896 York Beach landmark famous for its mesmerizing saltwater taffy making, classic diner fare, and nostalgic charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
The Goldenrod
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1896 York Beach landmark famous for its mesmerizing saltwater taffy making, classic diner fare, and nostalgic charm.
"The nostalgia of this place is off the charts...it has changed very little."
🎯 Watch the Taffy Pull
Don't miss the free show of taffy being made! It's mesmerizing.
🍦 Classic Soda Fountain
Try an ice cream soda for a taste of nostalgia.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Saltwater Taffy Making
Candy Shop
Watch taffy being made using vintage machines. A mesmerizing, free show!
Classic Ice Cream Sodas
Soda Fountain
Sip on a nostalgic ice cream soda, a perfect treat on a warm beach day.
New England Fare
Restaurant
Enjoy comfort food classics in a charming, retro setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Experience the Taffy Magic
Nostalgia and Sweet Treats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Watch the Taffy Pull
Don't miss the free show of taffy being made! It's mesmerizing.
🍦 Classic Soda Fountain
Try an ice cream soda for a taste of nostalgia.
🚗 Easy Paid Parking
Paid parking is available and easy to access via phone app.
🍬 Flavorful Taffy Choices
So many taffy flavors to choose from, and prices are reasonable.
Recommendations for a 3-day weekend in the York, Maine area?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Watch the Taffy Pull
Don't miss the free show of taffy being made! It's mesmerizing.
🍦 Classic Soda Fountain
Try an ice cream soda for a taste of nostalgia.
🚗 Easy Paid Parking
Paid parking is available and easy to access via phone app.
🍬 Flavorful Taffy Choices
So many taffy flavors to choose from, and prices are reasonable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Goldenrod's nostalgic charm and the mesmerizing taffy-making process. While the food is described as classic comfort fare, the real stars are the delicious saltwater taffy and ice cream sodas. The attentive staff and reasonable prices add to the positive experience, making it a beloved landmark for generations.
"Kathleen from Finestkind told us about this place on the boat tour so we had to check it out. Super crowded but the kids behind the register are very attentive and get your order done quickly and accurately. Taffy and chocolate are excellent and it was fun to check out a working taffy shop and see the production in action."
Sarah McBride
"The nostalgia of this place is off the charts. My parents were going here over 60 years ago and it has changed very little. A lot of comfort. Food is good but relatively basic. Taffy machines still produce the same candies."
Odalys Sage
"Going along with the whole vibe of this beach village, The Goldenrod is about as classic New England Americana as you can get! We didn't eat here, but got a box of the taffy. There were a ton of different flavor options and the price was reasonable. The younger girl behind the counter was so nice, and she seemed amazed (in a sweet way) that we had heard of the place from YouTube and that we were from Alabama. 😂"
Alabama OUTSIDErs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Goldenrod is located in the heart of York Beach, Maine. If you're driving, paid parking is available nearby and can be accessed easily via a phone app, which also allows you to add time if needed.
While specific public transport routes directly to The Goldenrod might be limited, York Beach is a popular destination, and local shuttle services or trolleys may operate during peak season. It's best to check local York Beach transit information closer to your visit.
Paid parking is readily available and can be managed through a convenient phone app, allowing you to pay and extend your time remotely.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, watching the taffy-making process at The Goldenrod is a free and open experience for all visitors.
The Goldenrod typically operates year-round, but hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date operating hours, especially for the restaurant and soda fountain.
There is no admission fee to enter The Goldenrod. You can browse the candy shop, watch the taffy being made, and enjoy the atmosphere without charge.
While The Goldenrod is a popular spot, reservations for the restaurant are not always necessary or taken, especially during busy times. Some reviews suggest there might not be a wait for a table.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond dining, you can watch the fascinating taffy-making process, shop for a wide variety of candies and chocolates, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere of this historic establishment.
Absolutely! Kids love watching the taffy being made, and the ice cream and candy offerings are a huge hit. The classic diner feel is also engaging for younger visitors.
The Goldenrod is famous for its saltwater taffy, with numerous flavors available. They also offer a selection of chocolates and other sweet treats.
The taffy-making process is a regular operation, but it's best to visit during their operating hours to catch a demonstration. The machines are often running throughout the day.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Goldenrod offers classic New England fare, including comfort food dishes. They are also renowned for their soda fountain, serving ice cream sodas and other treats.
Based on reviews, the prices at The Goldenrod are considered reasonable, especially for the quality and experience offered.
The saltwater taffy is a must-try, as are the ice cream sodas from the soda fountain. Many also enjoy the comfort food options on the restaurant menu. +1
While specific vegetarian or vegan options aren't heavily detailed in reviews, the candy and ice cream selections might offer some choices. It's advisable to inquire directly with the staff about current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the taffy being pulled, the retro charm of the soda fountain, and the classic storefront. The bustling beach town atmosphere also provides great shots.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos and videos of the taffy-making process. It's a unique visual experience that many visitors enjoy documenting.
Try to get shots that show the scale of the taffy puller, close-ups of the colorful taffy, and wider shots that include the historic interior of the shop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the sweets, the classic diner atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy simple, comforting food make it a relaxed dining experience for families. The nearby beaches also make it a perfect stop for a treat before or after a day of sun and sand. The paid parking system is also convenient for families managing multiple children and belongings.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the restaurant offers full meals, visitors can opt for more budget-friendly choices like an ice cream soda or a small selection of candies. The overall atmosphere is part of the experience, so even without a full meal, you can enjoy the nostalgic charm. The convenient paid parking also offers a straightforward cost for those exploring the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Saltwater Taffy
The sheer variety of flavors available is astounding, catering to every palate. From classic fruit flavors to more adventurous combinations, there's a taffy for everyone. Watching the taffy being stretched and folded, then cut and wrapped by automated machines, is a captivating spectacle that draws crowds and offers a tangible connection to the past. It’s a free, educational, and delicious part of the Goldenrod experience.
This dedication to tradition is what makes The Goldenrod a unique destination. It’s not just about buying candy; it’s about appreciating the skill, history, and dedication that goes into creating these sweet treats. The visual appeal of the colorful taffy being worked is also a significant draw for photographers and social media content creators.
A Taste of Americana
Patrons often describe the food as good and relatively basic, focusing on comfort classics that complement the overall retro vibe. The soda fountain, in particular, is a highlight, serving up traditional ice cream sodas that are a perfect accompaniment to a day at the beach. Sitting at the counter, enjoying a frothy concoction, adds to the immersive experience of stepping back in time.
This enduring appeal is a key reason for The Goldenrod's continued popularity. It offers a genuine slice of New England history and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes visitors feel like they're part of a long-standing tradition. It’s a place where memories are made and revisited, connecting generations through shared experiences and sweet treats.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit