Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Gardens

Amidst the Nevada desert’s arid expanse lies a sweet surprise, the Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Gardens. A testament to a mother’s love and a son’s ingenuity, Ethel M Chocolates was born from the mind of Forrest Mars Sr., the candy magnate behind M&M’s. He named the factory after his mother, Ethel, who instilled in him a passion for chocolate making. Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Gardens opened in Henderson in 1981. This wasn’t just another factory. It was a tribute, a way for Mars to honor his mother’s legacy and share her delicious recipes with the world. Legend has it that Nevada’s relaxed liquor laws, which allowed the production of liqueur-filled chocolates, played a part in Mars’ decision to open Ethel M here. The factory still uses Ethel’s original recipes from the early 1900s, crafting over 60 varieties of gourmet chocolates in small batches. These chocolates contain no preservatives, so they must be enjoyed within two weeks. Inside the Ethel M Chocolate Factory, large glass windows offer a glimpse into the chocolate-making process, from the roasting of cocoa beans to the final packaging. Videos throughout the factory tell the story of Ethel M and the art of chocolate making. A self-guided tour takes about 30-60 minutes. For the best experience, try to visit before 4:30 p.m. on weekdays when the factory is busiest. Adjacent to the factory lies a four-acre botanical cactus garden, one of the largest in the world. Mars, a passionate gardener, designed the garden in the English landscape style. It features over 300 species of cacti, succulents, and other drought-tolerant plants. In winter, the garden transforms into a dazzling wonderland illuminated by half a million lights. Demonstrating their commitment to sustainability, Ethel M also operates a solar garden. This impressive installation of over 2,000 solar panels powers the entire chocolate factory during peak hours. So, at the Ethel M Chocolate Factory & Gardens, you can indulge your sweet tooth, wander through a desert oasis, and witness a harmonious blend of history, nature, and innovation.