Sweet Pete’s Candy, a beloved confectionery in Duval County, finds itself in the spotlight as it contends for the prestigious title of the Best Candy Store in America, as recognized by USA Today. The nomination comes as a testament to the store’s commitment to quality, creativity, and, of course, sweetness.

Summer fun at Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop

To find your choice this year for the best chocolate shop -- you’ll have to travel to the heart of Downtown Jacksonville, where you’ll find the well-known Sweet Pete’s Candy.

Sweet Pete’s is the largest candy store in the southeast. Located in an historic 22,000 square foot mansion in the heart of downtown Jacksonville, Sweet Pete’s not only offers thousands of varieties of candy and hand crafted chocolates, but we bring guests into the candy making experience. Each day, Sweet Pete’s hosts candy classes, parties and field trips where candy lovers from all over learn about candy. Families and friends come to Sweet Pete’s to taste great candy and share a unique experience.

If you love to eat and drink, this week offers a great chance to explore the world of food and beverage beyond restaurants and bars. From a pie-making class to a tour of a chocolates shop, there's plenty to explore and enjoy if you're hungry for something new. Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in this article may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Up to 52% off Pie-MakingFrom the Natasha's Sweets deal description:Life-long baker passes along her passion and style through tasty winter creations.

"10/Six Grille" is opening in Sweet Pete's historic downtown building on Friday. The eatery encourages guests to enjoy American-style eats in a fanciful atmosphere that provides a nostalgic trip down the rabbit hole. GALLERY: Sneak peek of new Alice in Wonderland-themed restaurant"Take time out of your busy day and allow yourself to escape to Wonderland," the website says. The restaurant is replacing the Candy Apple Cafe & Cocktails. Alcoholic beverages are available including candy cocktails and mocktails.

"10/Six Grille" is opening in Sweet Pete's historic downtown building. The eatery encourages guests to enjoy American-style eats in a fanciful atmosphere that provides a nostalgic trip down the rabbit hole. "Take time out of your busy day and allow yourself to escape to Wonderland," the website says. "Enjoy one of our handcrafted dishes and let yourself get lost in the pages of Lewis Carroll's greatest work." Location: 400 N. Hogan St. Click HERE to visit the 10/Six Grille website.

Get to know this Jacksonville neighborhood by browsing its most popular local businesses, from an ice cream and candy shop to a bookstore and cafe. Located at 400 N. Hogan St., it's the highest-rated business in the neighborhood, boasting 4.5 stars out of 274 reviews on Yelp. Need a last minute gift for a special occasion, try this spot's menu also features candy buffet in a box . Yelpers give the business, located at 115 W. Adams St., 4.5 stars out of 147 reviews. Chamblin's UptownPhoto: RACHEL C./YelpCheck out Chamblin's Uptown, which has earned 4.5 stars out of 115 reviews on Yelp.