Experiences in Chocolate Decadence

Chocolate bar-shaped benches, interactive exhibits and yummy treats reflect the alluring theme running rampant throughout the museum. Learn about the artful technique of dipping candies by hand, or play a game that tests your skill at packing a box of goodies. A scavenger hunt leads to a flavorful conclusion.

This early February tribute to sweets turns downtown Glendale into a chocoholic’s paradise. Purveyors entice passersby with such sinful snippets as bacon, macaroons and funnel cakes, all drizzled with the namesake ingredient, at this AAA GEM event. To spice up your poetic prose in time for Valentine’s Day, attend one of the free writing workshops conducted by romance novelists.

Have your cake and eat it, too, at the AAA Four Diamond lodging’s spa, where chocolaty indulgences don’t necessarily translate to added calories. How about a fondue body wrap or a whipped cocoa bath? Or, perhaps an invigorating chocolate sugar scrub that leaves your skin silky smooth? Sample the goods by attending the town’s Chocolate Covered February, a month-long event featuring luscious chocolate desserts, themed meals, truffle-making classes and more.

When Windy City residents want to come in out of the chill, they head to “Chocolate at the Pen” to warm up with a selection from the hot chocolate station while listening to the soothing tones of a string duo. Held Friday and Saturday evenings, the high-end spread at this AAA Five Diamond property offers build-your-own crepe and sundae stations, truffles, and an assortment of dippable delights as well as classic cookies and chocolate cake with pizzazz. Make a reservation to secure your spot at this lavish chocolate bar.

For bonbons with some extra oomph, swing by Rebecca Ruth for chocolates enhanced with tasty liquors. These folks are the official inventors of Kentucky bourbon balls, but you also can choose from confections flavored with Irish coffee, cognac, mint julep, and rum. Take the tour to view the antique candy furnace and production line — after this brief educational journey, complimentary samples await.

Chocoholic meets oenophile at this Presidents Day weekend gastronomic fest, which focuses on pairing dark chocolate and red wine. Yakima Valley wineries present mouthwatering desserts along with a special selection of velvety reds to stimulate your palate. Chocolate fondue, pizza, cabernet sauces and wine-infused creations are typically on the list of temptations.