In the heart of downtown Indianapolis stands Rocket Fizz, commonly known for its strange soda flavors and vintage candy. As one who enjoys both candy and soda, I figured that this place would be a dream come true.

As soon as I walked in the store, I was greeted by a life size figure of Spider-Man, the nostalgic melody of “My Girl” by The Temptations and the sweet scent of chocolate, taffy and caramel all at once.

I found the shop to be a little overwhelming due to it being kind of small, especially considering how many items they sell. Hundreds of tin posters line the room above the candy while the sodas are displayed on the bottom of the shelf. In the middle of the store are miscellaneous items such as plush stuffed animals and gift baskets.

There are also various gag gifts around the room such as fake roaches and shocking chewing gum. They even stock the internet famous cat-mask, which I found to be hilarious.

Towards the back of the store is a collection of different Laffy Taffy flavors ranging from sangria to swiss roll to blueberry muffin. I stuck with the safe route and got watermelon, which I thought was tasty, especially for only 15 cents per piece.

According to Manager Natasha Sutton, Rocket Fizz has anywhere from 300 to 500 different sodas. I personally wouldn’t try a majority of them, because the flavors sound disgusting. For example, some flavors include ranch dressing, cookie dough and martian poop, whatever that is. The only reason why I would buy any of those is for a gag gift for someone I hate.

This would be a great place for parents to take their younger children because the parents can reminisce their childhood while the kids are excited about being surrounded by candy.

“The kids that are coming in, their parents and their grandparents are creating memories for them that they can pass down to the next generation,” Manager Dave Moses said.

One thing I found to be very annoying was trying to find a parking spot. I spent 20 minutes trying to find a parking meter even remotely close to Monument Circle, so I had to resort to paying $6 to park in a parking garage. I wouldn’t come downtown specifically for Rocket Fizz, but I would for sure visit there if I’m already walking downtown.