Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd is a specialty retail store owned by Austin "Chumlee" Russell, a prominent personality from the History Channel’s hit series Pawn Stars. Located within the Pawn Plaza in Las Vegas, the shop offers a curated selection of retro candies, unique snacks, and exclusive branded merchandise.
The Vision Behind the Sweets: Austin Russell’s Entrepreneurial Pivot
While many recognize Austin "Chumlee" Russell as the comic relief and sneaker expert at the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, his foray into the confectionery world represents a calculated business move. Established in May 2017, Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd was designed to capitalize on the massive foot traffic generated by the television show while providing fans with a more approachable, personal experience than the often-crowded pawn shop floor.
In 2026, the shop remains a cornerstone of the Pawn Plaza, a retail complex constructed from refurbished shipping containers. The decision to open a candy shop was not accidental; it aligns with Chumlee’s public persona—affable, nostalgic, and fun-loving. By focusing on "old-school" candy, the store bridges the generational gap, appealing to older tourists looking for sweets from their childhood and younger fans who follow Chumlee on social media.
The business model relies heavily on the "celebrity-adjacence" factor. Unlike a standard convenience store, visitors come to Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd with the hope of a "Chumlee sighting." While his filming schedule for Pawn Stars remains demanding, he is frequently seen at the shop, often engaging in spontaneous meet-and-greets or signing merchandise for customers. This personal touch has allowed the business to thrive in a competitive Las Vegas retail market that often favors large-scale corporate entities over boutique celebrity ventures.
Navigating Pawn Plaza: The Epicenter of Pawn Stars Tourism
To understand the appeal of the candy shop, one must understand its setting. The Pawn Plaza is located at 725 S Las Vegas Blvd, just a short walk from the main Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. This area of Las Vegas, situated between the glittering high-rises of the Strip and the historic neon of Fremont Street, has undergone significant revitalization, largely driven by the "Pawn Stars" brand.
The plaza itself is an architectural curiosity. Built using modular shipping containers, it reflects a modern, industrial aesthetic that contrasts with the traditional brick-and-mortar storefronts nearby. Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd occupies a prime unit within this complex. The compact nature of the shop—approximately 300 to 400 square feet—creates an intimate atmosphere. Every inch of wall space is utilized, with floor-to-ceiling shelves packed with colorful packaging and nostalgia-inducing displays.
For visitors in 2026, the Pawn Plaza serves as a "fan zone." After waiting in line to enter the pawn shop (which still sees thousands of visitors daily), the plaza provides a space to relax, eat, and shop. The candy store benefits from this ecosystem, acting as the primary souvenir hub for those looking for something more whimsical than a gold coin or a vintage watch.
What’s Inside? A Deep Dive into the Inventory
Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd is not your average candy store. The inventory is divided into three distinct categories: retro favorites, international oddities, and branded "Chumlee" collectibles.
Retro and Nostalgic Sweets
The heart of the store lies in its selection of candy that is difficult to find in standard supermarkets. Russell has curated a list of items that evoke the 1950s through the 1990s. This includes:
- Zotz: The fizzy, center-filled hard candy that remains a top seller.
- Razzles: The candy that turns into gum, a nostalgic staple for Gen X and Millennial visitors.
- Abba-Zaba: Taffy bars with peanut butter centers.
- Sky Bar: A four-segmented chocolate bar with different fillings.
- Candy Buttons: The classic sugar dots on paper strips.
The "Why" behind this selection is clear: nostalgia sells. In a city built on the "New and Now," Chumlee’s provides a tactile connection to the past.
Exclusive Chumlee Merchandise
A significant portion of the store’s revenue is driven by branded apparel and novelty items. In 2026, the "Chumlee" brand has expanded significantly. Fans can purchase:
- Autographed Items: Pre-signed photos, hats, and even candy boxes.
- Apparel: T-shirts featuring Chumlee’s likeness, often in a pop-art or caricature style.
- Collectibles: Enamel pins, stickers, and limited-edition "Chumlee" bobbleheads.
- Custom Candy Blends: The shop occasionally offers "Chumlee’s Favorites" bundles, which package his preferred snacks into a giftable format.
Bulk Candy and Novelty Items
The shop features a "fill-your-own" bulk candy station, allowing visitors to mix and match various gummies and chocolates. Additionally, the store stocks novelty items like giant-sized versions of standard candy bars and "gross-out" candies (like cricket snacks or bean-boozled jelly beans) that appeal to the younger, social-media-savvy crowd.
Logistics: Planning Your Visit in 2026
If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas in 2026, visiting Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd requires a bit of logistical foresight. Because it is located in the Downtown area, it is not within walking distance of the major Strip resorts like Caesar’s Palace or the Bellagio.
Getting There
- Rideshare: Services like Uber and Lyft are the most efficient way to reach the shop. Use the address 725 S Las Vegas Blvd.
- The Deuce: This is the 24/7 Las Vegas bus service that runs along the Strip and Downtown. There is a stop near the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, making it an affordable option for tourists.
- Parking: Parking at the Pawn Plaza is notoriously limited. There is a small dedicated lot, but it fills up quickly. Visitors are often encouraged to find street parking or use nearby public lots, though one should be mindful of local parking regulations to avoid fines.
Best Times to Visit
To maximize your chances of seeing Chumlee, midday on weekdays is generally recommended, as this is when filming for the show typically occurs nearby. However, the store is busiest on weekends. In 2026, the shop generally operates from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though these hours can shift depending on the season and special events at the Pawn Plaza.
Pricing and Budgeting
While entrance to the shop is free, prices for the candy and merchandise reflect its status as a tourist destination. Expect to pay a premium compared to a local drug store. A standard bag of bulk candy or a retro bar might cost 20-30% more than average, while branded T-shirts typically retail between $25 and $40.
Comparing the Pawn Plaza Experience
To help you decide how to spend your time in the "Pawn Stars" district, the following table compares the main attractions within and adjacent to the Pawn Plaza as of 2026.
| Attraction | Primary Focus | Best For | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold & Silver Pawn Shop | Antiques, History, Jewelry | History buffs and "Pawn Stars" fans | 45–90 minutes |
| Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd | Retro Sweets, Merch, Meet-and-Greets | Families and souvenir hunters | 15–30 minutes |
| Pawn Plaza Dining | Casual Food (BBQ, Pizza) | A quick lunch between tours | 30–45 minutes |
| Rick’s Rollin’ Smoke BBQ | Southern-style Barbecue | Hearty meals and rooftop views | 60 minutes |
The Cultural Impact of Celebrity-Driven Retail
Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd is more than just a place to buy sugar; it is a case study in how reality television can be leveraged into a sustainable physical business. In the mid-2000s, many reality stars relied on appearance fees. Austin Russell, however, followed the lead of Rick Harrison by investing in real estate and retail.
The shop’s success has helped stabilize the Pawn Plaza. By providing a diverse range of price points—from a $2 pack of gum to a $100 autographed jersey—the store ensures that every fan, regardless of their budget, can walk away with a piece of the "Pawn Stars" experience. This inclusivity is a hallmark of the Chumlee brand.
Furthermore, the shop has become a localized landmark. It is often featured in Las Vegas travel guides and "Things to Do" lists for families. In a city where many attractions are geared toward adults (gambling, nightlife), Chumlee’s offers a wholesome, family-friendly alternative that doesn't feel out of place in the heart of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Chumlee actually work at the candy shop?
While Chumlee does not work a "shift" in the traditional sense, he is very active in the business. He is frequently on-site for filming or to check on inventory. In 2026, he remains the sole owner and is heavily involved in selecting the types of candy and merchandise sold. Fans often post sightings on social media, but there is no guaranteed schedule for his appearances.
Can I buy Chumlee’s candy online?
Yes, the shop maintains an online presence through the official "Chumlee's Candy" website. This allows fans who cannot travel to Las Vegas to purchase branded merchandise and curated candy boxes. However, the full selection of retro bulk candy is typically reserved for the physical storefront to maintain the "destination" feel.
Is the shop wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Pawn Plaza was built to modern ADA standards. The candy shop is located on the ground level of the shipping container complex, with a flat entryway that accommodates wheelchairs and strollers. The interior is somewhat tight, so navigating during peak hours may require some patience.
Are there vegan or sugar-free options available?
The shop does carry a limited selection of sugar-free candies and vegan-friendly snacks (such as certain dark chocolates and traditional hard candies). However, the primary focus is on traditional retro recipes, many of which contain gelatin or standard sweeteners. If you have specific dietary restrictions, it is best to check the packaging of the individual items.
What is the most popular item in the store?
Aside from the autographed merchandise, the "Chumlee Mystery Box" is a perennial favorite. It typically includes a variety of retro candies and a small piece of branded swag. It is popular because it offers a "curated" experience of what the shop represents.
Final Recommendation for Visitors
If you are a fan of Pawn Stars, a visit to Chumlee’s Candy on the Blvd is a mandatory stop on your Las Vegas itinerary. It provides a lighter, more colorful contrast to the serious negotiations happening at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop next door. Even if you aren't a fan of the show, the selection of retro sweets makes it a fun, nostalgic trip down memory lane.
To make the most of your visit, combine it with a tour of the Pawn Shop and a meal at Rick’s Rollin’ Smoke BBQ. This allows you to experience the full "Pawn Plaza" ecosystem in a single afternoon. For the best experience, try to visit on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning to avoid the largest crowds, and keep your camera ready—you never know when the man himself might walk through the door to restock the Zotz.
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Declan O'Connor
Higher Education and Campus Culture Reporter