Express Way: Guaranteed Moose Sighting in Maine

In the heart of Scarborough, Maine, a sweet surprise awaits motorcoach groups in the form of an 8-foot-tall moose—and he’s made entirely of chocolate. Len Libby Candies, a family-owned, fourth-generation confectionery, is home to Lenny, the world’s only life-size chocolate moose. Weighing in at 1,700 pounds and standing proudly in his natural-looking diorama, Lenny has been the beloved mascot of this group-friendly, easily accessible addition to any southern Maine itinerary since 1997.

Conveniently located on U.S. Route 1 and just two miles south of Exit 42 off I-95, Len Libby has welcomed visitors to indulge in the company’s handcrafted chocolates for nearly a century. Today, bus groups can try free samples of local favorites such as Bangor Taffy and Lemon Zest Bark; shop for travel-friendly Maine souvenirs and locally made maple products, honey, jams, and more at the gift shop; and purchase a variety of chocolates, salt water taffy, caramel popcorn, roasted nuts, fudge, and more—all made on-site using time-honored techniques and secret recipes.

Len Libby began making candy out of his home in Scarborough, Maine, in 1926. Today, the business is owned by John and Gisele DeGrinney. Gisele’s grandfather bought the company in 1949.

Did you know? Lenny was sculpted on-site in approximately four weeks. He stands in a pond made of white chocolate and is accompanied by a chocolate mama bear and her two cubs.

Bus tours receive a warm welcome and fond farewell when they stop to visit this not-to-be-missed destination in Scarborough, Maine.

Len Libby Candies’ signature Bangor Taffy has been delighting caramel lovers since it was first introduced to passengers on the Maine Central Railroad more than 100 years ago. The original, secret recipe is still used today.

Whether they are traveling to or from some of Maine’s most beloved destinations, such as nearby Portland; Kennebunkport; and the beaches of Scarborough, Old Orchard, and Pine Point, groups will enjoy a 45-minute stop at Len Libby Candies for a chance to stretch their legs, explore the store, and purchase sweet treats to take home.

“We’ve become a staple stop for bus groups traveling through coastal Maine,” says John DeGrinney, co-owner of Len Libby Candies along with his wife, Gisele. She adds that “All bus visits start with John boarding the bus to welcome everyone and introduce them to Len Libby Candies. We really try to create a fun and festive atmosphere so your guests have a memorable experience. We love tour buses.”   

The DeGrinneys and their team work closely with tour planners to ensure the kind of genuine hospitality that keeps groups coming back year after year. Guests will find spacious, clean public restrooms and full ADA-compliant access for individuals using wheelchairs or walkers. Bus drivers appreciate the dedicated bus parking and the convenient horseshoe-shaped driveway that allows for easy entry and exit—no turnaround required!

“A stop at Len Libby Candies adds no cost to your tour and it’s a visit to an iconic Maine landmark,” says John. “We give your guests free samples of award-winning local flavor, and we’re the perfect rest stop located between Ogunquit and Portland.” 

Motorcoach groups are welcomed with open arms all year long, and it’s simple to book a visit. Just go to lenlibby.com/pages/bus-tours, email [email protected], or call (207) 883-4897. It is recommended that visits be scheduled in advance (especially if you’d like to order chocolatey snacks, which are available at a minimal cost), but if you find yourself needing something to do when rain washes out your plans or something else goes awry, consider stopping at Len Libby Candies. 

lenlibby.com | (207) 883-4897

Photo credit: Len Libby Candies.