When one thinks of Las Vegas, they don't tend to think about a "chocolate factory", but it might surprise people to know that Las Vegas is actually home to one of the greatest chocolate factories on the planet - Ethel M Chocolate Factory. (Even though it's technically located in Henderson, it's basically an honorary Vegas location.)

What makes Ethel M so amazing? Well, firstly, their chocolates are incredible. But secondly, it's more than just a place where chocolate is made. Ethel M hosts classes and events, they have tours, a cafe area to hang out in (complete with free wifi), a huge selection of drinks, candies, and treats, and one of the most impressive cactus gardens you'll ever see. Thus, Ethel M isn't just a chocolate factory, it's also quite an experience as well.

There is a "tasting room" in Ethel M where classes are held, as well as "chocolate and wine" tastings. There is also a self-guided tour of the factory where you can see the various chocolates and treats Ethel M is famous for being made, complete with informational writings on the windows that explain exactly what each room on the tour is responsible for. You can go to the candy store area and sample some of the wide variety of gourmet chocolates on display. Ethel M also offers treats like chocolate covered pretzels, candy apples, cupcakes, and other delights.

Of course, you can get drinks at Ethel M as well, not the least of which is their rich and creamy hot chocolate - a favorite of kids and adults alike. (Also perfect on a cold night!) Ethel M is owned by the Mars company, so their standard for their candies and food is quite high. One need only sample a few of their chocolates to know this place is the real deal.

Plenty of pre-packaged candies are available for sale, but you can also create a candy box to suit your own tastes (or that of a friend/spouse). Ethel M is a great place to get special gifts for loved ones, particularly for Valentine's Day. They also have Golden Knights themed chocolates for locals who love our hockey team. It's also extremely family-friendly and a perfect place to take your kids for a special treat (so long as you don't mind them being cracked-out on sugar, lol).

Ethel M is definitely an off-Strip hidden gem that most tourists to Vegas don't know about. However, locals love it, and often come here to walk through it's huge and beautiful outdoor cactus garden. Nothing is more relaxing than enjoying a hot chocolate outside among the various desert plants. It's really beautiful.

But Ethel M shines brightest (both literally and figuratively) during the holidays, between Thanksgiving and Christmas, when they decorate their cactus garden with Christmas lights. It turns the outdoor area into a dazzling winter wonderland, and it's a must-have experience for locals to go walk through with their children to get into the holiday spirit. Seriously, it's one of the most beautiful things you'll see in Vegas all year.

Though tourists may not know about Ethel M, this place is plenty busy. There's lots of parking nearby, but during the holiday season the lights attract huge crowds making parking fill up quickly, so you'll have to arrive early or risk parking far away and walking to the establishment.

I honestly can't say enough good things about Ethel M Chocolate Factory. It's a wonderful place to hang out and bring visitors to. The treats here won't fail to please your sweet tooth, and it's a must-visit location during the holidays. If you're new to Vegas, or just visiting, be sure to check it out at least once!