The Experience
Natalie’s Candy Jar is pure grab-and-go joy: a bright little candy shop built for travelers who want something sweet without committing to a full meal. Think of it as your last-minute “I need a treat for the plane” (or “I forgot a gift”) safety net—fast, convenient, and impossible to walk past without at least browsing.
The vibe is cheerful and nostalgic, with shelves of colorful packaged candies and chocolates that make waiting for boarding feel a little less like… waiting for boarding. What travelers love most is the speed: you can pop in, build a mix-and-match haul, and be back at your gate in minutes. It’s also clutch for families—kids can pick a favorite, and adults can grab something classic for the flight.
Location & Access
Natalie’s Candy Jar has multiple post-security locations in Terminal 2 at St. Louis Lambert International Airport: one in the C Gates near C12, and another in the E Gates near E14. If you’re connecting between concourses, it’s an easy “walk-by” stop—especially if you’re already in C or E and don’t want to detour for food.
Seating isn’t really the point here (it’s a shop, not a café), so plan to enjoy your picks back at the gate. Wait times are typically minimal—most delays come from travelers carefully curating their candy mix, not from long lines.
Menu Highlights
- Build-your-own candy mix: the best move for flights—grab a little sweet, a little sour, and something chocolatey so you don’t get flavor fatigue midair.
- Chocolate bars and boxed chocolates: ideal if you want a slightly “nicer” treat or a simple gift that still feels intentional.
- Gummy and sour candies: great for kids (and for adults who pretend they’re buying them for kids).
Pricing follows typical airport retail: expect small grab bags and packaged candy to land in an easy impulse range, with boxed items running higher depending on size and brand.
Dietary options vary by brand and packaging, but you can usually find at least a few vegetarian-friendly sweets (many chocolates and some gummies). Vegan and gluten-free items may be available in limited selection—check labels carefully. Halal-specific certification isn’t typically highlighted in airport candy shops, so label-reading is your best bet.
Practical Info
- Mobile ordering: Not commonly offered for candy retail; plan to shop in person.
- Reservations: None—this is strictly walk-up.
- Best times to avoid crowds: If you’re traveling during morning business-bank departures or late-afternoon rush, stop by right after you clear security rather than right before boarding.
- Power outlets at tables: Not applicable inside the shop; look for outlets at nearby gate seating.
Quick Verdict
Best for: families needing a quick win, anyone who wants a sweet airplane snack, and travelers hunting a last-minute, packable gift.
Skip if: you’re looking for seating, a coffee-and-dessert hangout, or a full dessert experience (for that, STL’s 24-hour Ted Drewes frozen custard machines are the better “destination”).
Location
Multiple locations: C Gates (C12), E Gates (E14)