If you’re looking for some hands-on fun with your kids, try Sweet Pete’s Candy Shoppe in in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville, just steps away from Hemming Park.

From salted caramels, chocolates and even lollipops, Pete and his crew make everything in house. And you can join the fun at one of Pete's hands-on candy-making classes.

Chocolate lovers, don’t miss the chocolate pizza class on Sundays. Learn how to temper chocolate and then create your own eight-inch pizza pie, complete with chocolate toppings. This class is for ages 6 and up.

My family and I participated in the hand-pulled lollipop class during our visit and learned some of the science behind making candy. We even came home with Key Lime flavored lollipops, tasty and a great souvenir of our day.

For toddlers, check out the weekly Toddler Time – little ones can dip a cookie lollipop into chocolate to decorate. Afterward, toddlers and caregivers can take part in storytime.

I. Airport/North – from Jacksonville International Airport, take Airport Road to I-95 South. Take J. Turner Butler Blvd. Exit east toward the Beaches. Take Gate Parkway exit, turn left. Turn right on Town Center Pkwy and St. Johns Town Center will be on your right beginning at Big Island Dr.

II. Downtown - Take the Main Street Bridge to I-95 South. Take J. Turner Butler Blvd. exit east toward the Beaches. Take Gate Parkway exit, turn left. Turn right on Town Center Pkwy and St. Johns Town Center will be on your right beginning at Big Island Dr.

III. South – Drive north on I-95. Take J. Turner Butler Blvd. exit east toward the Beaches. Take Gate Parkway exit, turn left. Turn right on Town Center Pkwy and St. Johns Town Center will be on your right beginning at Big Island Dr.

IV. East – From the Beaches, drive west on J. Turner Butler Blvd. Take I-295 North exit toward the Airport. First exit on I-295 is Town Center Pkwy. Turn left off exit ramp and St. Johns Town Center will be on your left.

V. West – Drive I-10 East to I-95 South. Take I-95 South to J. Turner Butler Blvd. exit east toward the Beaches. Take Gate Parkway exit, turn left. Turn right on Town Center Pkwy and St. Johns Town Center will be on your right beginning at Big Island Dr.

VI. Major Interstate Intersection à Best Interstate Exit à Major Road Intersection à Major Landmarks – St. Johns Town Center is conveniently located in the heart of Jacksonville between J. Turner Butler Blvd., Gate Parkway and I-295.