ice cream factory tour fresno

America's 10 Best Ice Cream Factory Tours

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Homeland Creamery Tours!

Perfect for family, friends, seniors, or a school group!

Tours by reservation only.

April through October

Our Dairy Tour Includes:

At just $10 + tax per person  (ages 2 and under free) , this is a great way to get a  hands on experience of where milk comes from. , 20 - 30 minute hayride across the farm, try a sample of our homemade ice cream, visit our dairy education classroom, learn about dairy cows, interested in going on a tour fill out the form below to make tour reservations. tours are schedule mon-sat at 10am or 12 noon..

Tour Contact:  [email protected] OR  (336) 685-0470

Thank you for contacting us!

Thanks so much for reaching out about Homeland Creamery Tours.  We will be in touch soon regarding your request. 

Tour the Little Man Ice Cream Factory

Take a tour of the Little Man Ice Cream Factory and see where the magic happens. Visit our booking calendar to choose a date and time and add up to 15 Admissions to your time slot.

Join Events & Classes at Little Man Ice Cream Factory

You can also join our seasonal events and classes. It’s a fun activity for you and your friends.

• Order Online

Here’s the scoop!

• No-contact delivery
• Curbside pickup

Tasty. Fresh. Heavenly.

Yummy treats for you

Italian Ice

Over 6 delicious flavors! Flavors May Change Daily

HANDCRAFTED ICE CREAM

Made fresh daily! Flavors May Change Daily

HEAVENLY combo

Ice cream + Italian ice. Our signature treat

Let's make your next event heavenly.

Get Directions

• 5790 N. Fresno St. Fresno, Ca 93710
• Monday - Saturday 12pm - 8pm
• (559) 835-1300

Accessibility

Online dictionary, readable experience, visually pleasing experience, easy orientation.

The Heavenly Freeze Dessert Shop Accessibility Statement

Accessibility Statement

• heavenlyfreeze.com
• May 9, 2024

Compliance status

We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of circumstance and ability.

To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.

This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML, adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.

If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email

Screen-reader and keyboard navigation

Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements, alongside console screenshots of code examples:

Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website. In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels; descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups), and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology. To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on as soon as they enter the website.

These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.

Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.

Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

Disability profiles supported in our website

• Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
• Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
• Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
• ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
• Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
• Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments

• Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
• Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
• Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
• Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
• Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
• Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
• Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.

Browser and assistive technology compatibility

We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).

Notes, comments, and feedback

Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to

Visit the Ben & Jerry's Factory

Operating hours:.

Open every day, 10:00-6:00. Advanced online ticket purchase highly recommended. For group reservation requests of 21 or more people please email at least 2 weeks in advance to inquire.

We are delighted to welcome you! Our Waterbury site is the only Ben & Jerry’s factory open to the public. Our very first factory, built in 1985, continues to manufacture upwards of 350,000 pints per day while offering our fans a sneak peek at our humble beginnings. Our small Scoop shop, retail area and tour route have remained fairly unchanged over the years.

Guided tours, which began in 1986, have allowed us to share with millions of guests the evolution of what started as a small local company from the early days in the gas station to the worldwide reach we’ve expanded to since we opened our first Scoop Shop on May 5, 1978!  

We can’t think of a better way to enjoy time with family and friends than learning how we make our ice cream then indulging in your favorite flavor or trying one of our euphoric new additions all the while taking in the beautiful mountain views!  

*** Production schedules vary and are managed by our manufacturing teams. As a result, we cannot guarantee you will see active production during your tour***

Contact Us & Area Info

Physical address:

1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road Waterbury, VT 05676 Information line 802-337-1201 or  Email Us

Visit Vermont

In addition to Ben & Jerry’s, Waterbury is home to The Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Cabot Farmer’s Store, Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea plus a host of restaurants, shopping and lodging for all budgets. For more local information including downtown historic Waterbury visit the Discover Waterbury site.

Other Resources:  

Green Mountain Byway

Stowe Area Association

Vermont Attractions Association

Vermont Brewers

Vermont Cheese Council

Vermont Grape and Wine Council

Vermont Vacation

Immerse yourself in all things Ben & Jerry’s with a guided tour of our humble beginnings.  Browse through our Gift shop then swing by our Scoop shop to indulge in your favorite old flavor or discover a new one.

The 30 minute guided portion of your Factory Experience begins with a quick MOO-vie to learn about our company culture followed by a short walk to our glassed-in mezzanine overlooking the production room floor where your tour guide will explain how we make our pints.  To sweeten the deal you’ll also receive a sample of one of our chunks*. The tour ends in our Flavor Room with a tasting of one of our euphoric flavors* and a cow joke, or two!  *nondairy, vegan options available.

Our outside grounds offer space to enjoy your ice cream, play on the playground, pay your respects to our Dearly De-pinted in our Flavor Graveyard, snap a few memorable photo ops and take in the lovely mountain views.  A great outing for all ages!

***Production schedules vary and are managed by our manufacturing teams. As a result, we cannot guarantee you will see active production during your tour***

Visitor Information

• Factory Experience tickets are released two weeks in advance of any chosen date. 
• Pre-purchasing your tickets online is highly encouraged due to limited capacity.    
• Day of and walk-in ticket availability will vary each day based on staffing with the potential of NO availability.
• Additional ice cream can be purchased before or after your guided tour outside from the Scoop shop window.
• For group reservation requests of 21 or more people please email at least 2 weeks in advance to inquire.
• As we are a food manufacturing facility there is no glass or pets (with the exception of service animals) allowed inside.
• Large bags are not permitted and cannot be left unattended. 
• RV, Coach and Accessible parking located at the top of the entrance driveway hill, with designated drop off at the end of the boardwalk.

What is included in the Factory Experience?

Your ticket includes a 30-minute guided tour where you will learn about our company culture, how we make our ice cream, try a sample of our chunks and a sample of our ice cream.  Additionally there are plenty of photos ops, a retail shop with all things Ben & Jerry’s, a full service Scoop shop, playground, Flavor Graveyard and lovely mountain views.

What is the cost of the Factory Experience?

Ticket prices are: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors 65+, and $1 for Children, age 2-12, plus service fee. Infants do not need a ticket for the Factory Experience. 

What are your hours of operation?

Please visit the home page  for updated hours of operation. 

Can you guarantee I will see active manufacturing?

No. While we do have scheduled downtime the reality of manufacturing is any minute without advanced warning can become downtime thus we do not guarantee you will see active manufacturing.

What does the tour consist of if you are not manufacturing ice cream?

The tour remains the same.  To better explain the manufacturing process your tour guide will narrate a video that was filmed on the production room floor.  In the manufacturing room you may see a shiny, clean, empty room; a portion of our thorough cleaning process that takes place between flavors; or our maintenance crew working on a repair.

How do I buy tickets for the Factory Experience?

Tickets are released 2 weeks in advance and can be purchased online under the BOOK NOW! tab on our website. If available , you may also purchase walk-in tickets onsite at our Ticket Sales and Gift Kiosk.  Due to high demand, we recommend purchasing your tickets online in advance of your visit to guarantee your Factory Experience. 

Does everybody in my group need a ticket?

Yes. Adults, Seniors, and Children, age 2-12, need to purchase a ticket. 

What if I was only able to book 2 tickets, but I have a group of 3 people?

Due to strict capacity limits, unfortunately we are only able to accommodate those two guests that have a ticket. We recommend checking back on the website for potential openings or cancellations with availability for your entire group. 

I have already purchased my Factory Experience tickets online, where do I go?

Enter through the main lobby doors located on the patio area.  Listen for the cowbell to signal the start of your scheduled visit.  Check in with your tour guide as the group proceeds to the first stop on the tour.

What if tickets are sold out online?

We recommend checking back on the website for potential openings. 

Are Walk-In tickets available?

Sometimes. If staffing allows each day, we may add additional bookings day-of for walk-in and online purchases. We recommend visiting us early in the day as these tickets sell out quickly!

Is there a waitlist/cancellation for the Factory Experience?

No. We do not have a waitlist or cancellation list.  We recommend checking back on the website for potential openings. 

What if I have a group of 21 or more people?

For group reservation requests of 21 or more people please email at least 2 weeks in advance to inquire. 

Does the Factory Experience sell out often?

Yes. Since our reopening, we have sold out every day. Please plan accordingly! 

What if I miss my scheduled Factory Experience reservation time?

If you miss your scheduled time, it is unlikely we will be able to reschedule due to advanced ticket sales and capacity limits.  A refund will not be provided. If you are running late, you may reschedule or self-cancel your experience up to 30 minutes before your scheduled time using the link found in your confirmation email.  

Is the Factory ADA accessible?

Yes, the Factory is ADA accessible.  Accessible parking is marked and located in our upper parking lot. You may also drop off at the end of the boardwalk, at the top of the hill.  For planning purposes, the tour is in 3 parts. Your tour guide will direct you. After the intro/check-in in the tour lobby area the first 2 parts take place on the second floor by way of the elevator (we only have one!) located in the tour lobby. The 3rd part of the tour is located in the Flavor Room. You will take the same elevator back to the lobby then go across and down the hallway to meet up with the group in the Flavor Room.

Do you offer loaner wheelchairs?

Yes.  Ask any staff member and they will direct you to where you can pick up a wheelchair for use during your visit.

Lost & Found?

Please call our Gift shop to inquire at 802-337-1201 .

How do I cancel my Factory Experience reservation?

To self-cancel a Factory Experience reservation, click the link found in your confirmation email.

Do you have space to store luggage during my visit?

No, unfortunately we do not have space to store luggage, backpacks, etc.

How long should I plan for my visit?

Between one hour and one hour and fifteen minutes.  We are located on a hill.  It takes a few minutes to park and walk into the facility.

What else is there to do if I cannot take the tour?

You are welcome to visit our Scoop Shop, Flavor Graveyard, playground area, outdoor Gift Kiosk and enjoy the lovely mountain views. 

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, but only outside. Pets are not permitted inside the Factory. Dogs must be leashed and supervised.  Please do not leave your dog in the car during the warmer months.  Service dogs are permitted inside.  

Are there restrooms onsite?

Yes.  Restrooms are located outside on the paved walkway and inside the tour lobby. 

Is there public transportation available?

No, however for travel around Waterbury and the surrounding area, Hometown Tours & Rides offers local transportation and tours of the Central Vermont region . 

Where do I go to purchase an ice cream cake?

Please call or visit our Scoop Shop to purchase a ready-to-go ice cream cake. For custom cake orders, please visit our Scoop shop website.

Where can I buy gift/souvenir items?

Our main retail space is located inside. A second smaller area, stocked full of our bestselling items, is located outside in our Ticket Sales & Gift Kiosk.

Do I need a ticket to go to the inside retail area?

No.  Tickets are only required for the guided tour portion of the Factory Experience.

What is the Flavor Graveyard? Where is it?

The Flavor Graveyard is an actual graveyard onsite where we have laid to rest our Dearly De-pinted flavors with granite headstones and witty epitaphs. It is located at the top of the property in the upper parking lots, passed the playground area. 

What if I have a food allergy?

For the Scoop shop please inform your scooper of the allergy so they can provide the most accurate allergy scooping protocol.  For the Factory Experience please inform your tour guide and they will assist.  

Do you have nondairy, gluten free, nut free options?

Yes. Nondairy, gluten free and nut free options are available for purchase in our Scoop shop and for sample on tour.  For all other allergies we will do our best to accommodate.

What else is there to do in the area?

Printed material can be found in our onsite Info Booth, located in our lower parking lot. 

For additional information, we recommend using the links below:

www.discoverwaterbury.com                      Local area around Ben & Jerry’s www.vtattractions.org                                VT attractions all throughout the state www.gostowe.com                                      Stowe located 10 miles north www.vermonttourismnetwork.com              Group visits to VT www.vermontbrewers.com/breweries/         VT beer  www.vtcheese.com/                                     VT cheese www.vermontgrapeandwinecouncil.com/    VT wine  

Visit our onsite Scoop Shop to enjoy the Ben & Jerry's ice cream flavors you love.

A promise to be the exception, kept by a hands-on dairy family.

“Producers gives me the opportunity to be creative and innovative. It is a quality of work that matters here more than anything else.”

“At Producers we don’t just talk about family… it feels like family.”

“My favorite part of my job is meeting new people.”

RECIPES THAT FEED THE SOUL

 Take a look through our recipes and indulge yourself in mouthwatering food for you and the family. Our quality products won’t disappoint!

Veggie Mac N Cheese

Vanilla Raspberry Cream Soda

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Locally sourced.

Every time you purchase local products you’re feeding the community by creating jobs, financial security, and growth opportunities. With every gallon of milk, tub of ice cream, and container of sour cream you’re a part of our local mission to serve others.

NATURALLY PRODUCED

Nourishing Lives One at a Time begins at the farm with the care and protection of our dairy cows. We hold ourselves to a higher standard by creating a healthy and happy atmosphere to create quality you can taste.

DELIVERED FRESH

Fresh & Local. Two words that allow for us to produce product that guarantees freshness with every drop. With our family farms an average of 26 miles from our plant you‘re guaranteed a locally fresh product every time.

OUR NEWSLETTER

Subscribe to our newsletter for coupons and updates on Producers

Mon-Fri: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm

Sat: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm

Closed Major Holidays

9001 North Lander Ave. Hilmar, CA 95324

[email protected]

209.656.1196

Schedule your tour at Hilmar Cheese Visitor Center!

Fun for all! Public ice cream making tours, AgXscape Game, free STEM school field trips, tours for bus groups and more.

NEW AgXscape An escape game challenge

Reserve your spot for a public AgXscape Game!  “Secret Agent” teams of 2-4 adults or up to 6 with children progress through a series of simulated dairy farm challenges to unlock the secret answer. Fun game style, not in a immersive escape room (not scary).

See the reserve schedule for AgXscape Saturdays, summer and the school holidays for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Spring Break (closed on the official holiday).

Great team building activity for employers, organizations and those seeking something fun and different! Groups of 10 players or more or schools may reserve a private AgXscape challenge by completing this form . Six challenge sets can accommodate up to 36 players total per 45 minute session. See our current openings and reserve a date.

Public Ice Cream Making Tours

Reserve your spot for a public ice cream making activity and tour! “Shake, rattle and roll” with this hands-on activity to freeze a fun-sized bag of ice cream, watch the cheesy MOOvie, explore the exhibits, see the BIG CHEESE and get a special gift at the end!

See the reserve schedule for Ice Cream making Saturdays, summer and the school holidays for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Spring Break (closed on the official holiday).

Groups of 10 or more may reserve private tour by completing this form . See our current openings and reserve a date.

School & Youth Tours

Experience STEM in Agriculture! Free Public and Private Classroom School Tours .

Join us for a fun and educational field trip in the Central Valley! Hands-on activities to explore the science and technology in dairies and cheese making. Viewing windows to see employees package the Big Cheese, 640 lb. blocks.  Organized and led by trained tour guides, safe and fully accessible. All students receive free cheese samples, a hairnet, Daisy’s Dairy “ABCs” booklet and a souvenir pencil.

K to 8th Tour and FREE Ice Cream Making Activity, 90 minutes Educational tour plus actual hands-on ice cream making. Each student makes his/her own ice cream during a lesson that integrates science, math and reading while developing listening and direction following skills. A food safety theme is emphasized. Each student will enjoy his/her own personally created ice cream sample.

4th Grade to Adult Tour And FREE Cheesemaking Experience, 90 minutes Educational tour plus actual hands-on cheesemaking. Student teams follow the scientific method to make cheese; measuring volume, weight, time and temperature. The lesson integrates reading, writing, critical thinking, teamwork and decision making to achieve results. Food safety is emphasized along with nutrition concepts.

Free for teacher-led public or private classrooms  (minimum student group of 10) associated with a school district, reservations required.

School Tour Start Times – 9:30 am (or earlier), 11:00 am (groups often eat lunch in our park before the tour), 12:30 pm and afternoon times available, Monday through Friday.

School Tour Months – January through October Group Size – Minimum 10 and Maximum of 125 students plus chaperones rotating through the program. Groups of fewer than 60 students may be combined with other small groups.

Scout Tours Earn a Patch $4 per scout 45-60 minutes. Tours available after school by reservation. Choose between the tour and ice cream activity for all ages or tour and cheesemaking activity for scouts 9 years or older. Request a tour today!

Bus and Group Tours

Stop For The Cheese – Stay for Lunch! The best stop along Highway 99 from San Francisco to Yosemite. Free cheese tasting, front door drop-off/pick up with ample bus/group parking and motor coach operator and tour director thank you gifts. A great comfort or meal stop with a Café, Peet’s Coffee & Espresso Bar and an ice cream counter. Drop-by buses are welcome. Your guests will love complimentary fresh cheese curds called “squeakers.”

For groups planning a tour, lunch and shopping time, allow about 1.5 hours or so.

Tour Group Meals by Hilmar Cheese Company Catering Culinary Agri-tourism! Learn how cheese is made then enjoy a catered meal featuring our homemade Cheese Chowder Soup and famous Cream Cheese Brownie or Cheese Pie (better than any cheesecake!). We offer breakfast, lunch, dinner, charcuterie boxes and a dessert sampler. Motor coach operator and tour director meals are complimentary with a catered meal for 30 paid guests or more. Pricing is inclusive of tax. If you don’t see what you would like, let us customize a meal for you.

Behind The Scenes Motorcoach Tour Only available to our motorcoach guests by reservation. Please call 209.656.1196. Our tour guide boards your coach to take a 15-minute drive through the world’s largest cheese and whey manufacturing facility. Only available if you come aboard a bus.

Please fill out the request form below for more information

Free Self-Guided Visitor Center Tour

Learn at your own pace how cheese is made and explore interactive, hands-on exhibits about cows, dairies and cheesemaking. Watch Daisy’s MOOvie, ask any staff member to start the show. See employees package the “big cheese” – 640 lb. blocks of cheese. The facility is accessible. Call 209.656.1196 to see if the second level exhibits and viewing windows are open if you plan to visit on a Saturday.

Virtual Tour

Too far away to visit take our virtual tour.

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Schedule today.

Cassie's Compass is a Christian travel blog based in Fresno, California.

24 Fresno Date Ideas for 2024

Cassie’s Compass contains affiliate links and is also an Amazon Services LLC Associates Program member. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Privacy Policy for more information.

Looking for some fun Fresno date ideas?

Fresno, California may not immediately come to mind as a city of romance, but it is a city brimming with adventure.

Incredibly close to stunning outdoor moments and full of unique culinary experiences, there are endless things to do in Fresno for couples.

As Fresno locals, my husband and I have tried all the fun things to do in Fresno and have narrowed our picks to our hometown’s most romantic date ideas.

While these ideas can also make the perfect solo experience, my husband and I curated this list from our favorite Fresno date ideas .

Fresno Places & Hidden Gems Map

Discover the hidden gems of Fresno with my hand-picked collection of over 200 must-see spots . I’ve compiled my years exploring Fresno and its surrounding day trips all in one place with an easy-to-use legend sorted by activity and proximity.

Download the map and get ready to discover the magic of Fresno, one pin at a time!

24 Fresno Date Ideas

1. toca madera wine tasting.

Fresno is one of the agricultural capitals of California. However, few people know how many wineries we have here . Many hidden gems offer unique tasting experiences, classically crafted wines, and breathtaking views.

Our favorite winery is Toca Madera Winery . Pack your own lunch for a casual Sunday afternoon, or reserve a table on their shaded patio.

2. Good Dirt Pottery Class

And if you love pottery, Good Dirt Pottery Studio offers fun try nights! The try night was a fun introduction to the pottery wheel. We each made a bowl and a cup that they fired, and we got to keep!

3. La Peau Couple’s Massage

Complimentary rosé, luxurious robes, and a relaxing sitting lounge await you at La Peau Spa . Relax the afternoon away with a couple’s massage.

4. Raphio Chocolate Factory Tour

Fresno is home to an artisan chocolatier. Tour Raphio Chocolate , learn how real chocolate is made, and sample different varieties from around the world.

5. Bespoke Menu-Less Cocktail Bar

Discover your signature drink, or find something that will totally surprise you! The bartenders at Bespoke customize every drink to you.

I told them I love a sweet whiskey and got the most amazing take on an Old Fashioned. My husband loves ice cream, and they made a drink with soft serve! It’s a fun and cozy spot to try something new.

6. Daniel x Claire Semi-Private Dining

Chefs Daniel and Claire Skinner met in culinary school, and their in-home pop-up restaurant is one of the best hidden gems in Fresno!

While the pop-up restaurant is run out of their home, it really feels like eating at a small restaurant where you can see the chefs prepare everything, and it is spacious enough that you don’t have much interaction with other guests, just like any other restaurant.

Surprise your partner by booking a table for one of their four-course menus. They create custom menus every month, and reservations go fast!

7. Kuppa Joy Coffee Shop

So many Fresno coffee shops offer their own unique vibe in addition to delicious coffee.

Tailor your coffee shop selection based on your partner’s favorite things. Cinnamon rolls and coffee? Collect Coffee Bar is the obvious choice. Love cozy window seats? Enjoy the downtown views as you sip at Fulton Street Coffee .

One of my husband’s favorite challenges was visiting the throne in each of the three Kuppa Joy locations in one day.

8. Rare Earth Coffee Roasting Class

If you are true coffee lovers, then try your hand at coffee roasting. Take a tasting class at Rare Earth , then learn the art of air-roasting as you create and bring home your very own blend.

9. My Pretty Little Picnic

“Picnics done beautifully” is exactly right. My Pretty Little Picnic is a Fresno-based company that will set up bespoke and customizable pop-up picnics wherever you want! Take the stress out of planning and packing. Just walk up and enjoy.

10. NextGen Escape Room

Looking for a mental challenge? NextGen has a few escape rooms to try, with new rooms and challenges each month. You’ll need to work together to find clues and a way to escape before time.

11. Fresno Flower Market

Grab a coffee and enjoy downtown Fresno weekly at the Fresno Flower Market in the Sun Stereo Warehouse. Create your own bouquet and pick your favorite stems from a local selection.

12. Fresno Blossom Trail

If you are looking for romantic things to do in Fresno in the springtime, you must drive the blossom trail . Take a leisurely drive through orchards with the windows down as you smell the sweet citrus blooms.

Make a day of it and dine in a historic schoolhouse at Schoolhouse Restaurant & Tavern . To me, the study carrel by the auditorium was the most romantic spot.

13. Hike Pincushion

Since Fresno is nestled by the Sierra Nevada foothills, there are also plenty of mild to moderate hikes nearby. Pincushion Peak South Loop is our favorite easy day hike. It has an incredible view of Millerton Lake and is a fun outdoor afternoon for couples.

14. The Foundry Art Class

When it comes to creating your own art, the Foundry Cooperative should be at the top of your list. A collective of local artists and artisans, their workshops take the stress out of date planning while providing endless conversation. Wine and paint nights, jewelry making, and bible journaling are just a few of their ever-changing options.

15. Shinzen Japanese Garden

My favorite area in Woodward is the Shinzen Japanese Garden . For only five dollars you can take a romantic stroll among the tōrō lanterns, footbridges, and peacocks. A very romantic stroll in a beautiful park!

16. Crow & Wolf Trivia Night

Crow & Wolf taproom regularly hosts fun events like Trivia Night, two-step lessons, and more. Enjoy craft beer and premium seltzers in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

17. Old Town Farmer’s Market

Have a night in and make your own dinner using local ingredients sourced from the Old Town Farmer’s Market . Shop for the freshest ingredients together, then enjoy a romantic evening in as you cook together.

18. Joy’s Velitas Candle-Making Class

For one of the more unique things to do in Fresno for adults look no further than Fresno’s first candle bar.  Book a candlemaking workshop  where you learn to make candles while enjoying a craft cocktail in a cute space.

19. The Library Speakeasy

Did you know that Fresno has a speakeasy? A password (and reservation) is required to enter this quiet, dimly lit, small, unmarked bar. The Library at Detention is a fun and unique place to grab so craft cocktails.

20. Bike Woodward Park

If you and your date love the outdoors, head to Woodward Park . Over 300 acres of open space provide the perfect spot for a picnic and a long walk. Rent a bike from  The Bike Shop , conveniently located just across the street.

21. Ampersand Ice Cream

Ampersand is the best way to end a date night. With three Frenso locations open until 10 pm, pop in for some handmade small-batch ice cream. The best and easiest date idea for Fresno ice cream lovers.

22. Evanelle Movie in a Vineyard

Picture this: a cozy outdoor movie on a lawn at sunset in the middle of a vineyard! That is exactly what you get at Evanelle Vineyards Movie Nights. Bring a blanket and lawn chair to cozy up and enjoy a happy hour before the movie starts.

23. Beer for the Meeples Board Game Cafe

If board games are your thing, learn how to play a new one at Beer for the Meeples . They serve drinks from local breweries and coffee shops and will even teach you if you need help with board game rules.

24. Roger Rocka’s Dinner Theater

Roger Rocka’s has been providing entertainment as a classic dinner theater since 1978. The theater offers a variety of shows ranging from plays to musicals and comedies. See The Good Company Players perform a live show while you eat.

Fresno Date Night Restaurants

Fresno has so many fantastic places to eat . So many that it would be impossible to list them all in one post. Instead, my husband and I picked out our seven favorite date night restaurants in Fresno.

• 13 Prime Steakhouse : The best place to splurge for any special occasion.
• Homi-Ya Ramen : An authentic ramen house with incredible flavor. Great for a casual date night with delicious food.
• Gazebo Gardens : A garden nursery that weekends as a food truck hangout and beer garden? Although not technically a restaurant itself, Gazebo Gardens delivers as a fun date idea.
• Quail State : Downtown Fresno’s only rooftop bar and lounge.
• Elderwood : I’ve already raved about The Darling in Visalia, but if you are looking for a romantic dinner spot worth the quick drive from Fresno, look no further than Elderwood. I can’t wait to return to experience its gorgeous speakeasy interior, but book in advance because reservations fill up quickly.
• Modernist : The only way to end a Fresno dinner date is with a fun craft cocktail in the heart of downtown.
• Saizon : Fresno’s newest restaurant for a date night splurge.

Romantic Places to Stay Near Fresno

Speaking of the most romantic weekend getaways near Fresno, The Darling Hotel in Visalia should top every list. Less than an hour from downtown Fresno, this renovated 1930’s courthouse makes the perfect micro getaway. Its Art Deco decor and incredible location make it one of the best (and newest) date ideas in the Central Valley. Check out my complete post on why The Darling Hotel is the most romantic getaway in Central California .

Do any of these inspire Fresno date ideas for you? If you are looking for even more fun date ideas, check out my Fresno Hidden Gems Map with over 200+ pins, including day trips, hikes, and even more things to do in Fresno for couples.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:

• 24 Fresno Day Trips to Take in 2024
• The Ultimate Guide to Fresno, California
• The Best Restaurants in Fresno
• All 17 Fresno Wineries Ranked
• The Best Coffee Shops in Fresno
• The Complete Guide to the Fresno Blossom Trail

For Cassie, every destination deepens her love for God. Her mission is to inspire that same love in others. Hang around and find something to inspire your next adventure!

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Monique perez.

Thank you for the great idea’s. I personally never heard of ” The Darling” and I can’t wait to try it out.

I’m so glad it was helpful to you! You will love The Darling, one of my favorite stays.

Cassie Zonneveld

Next time you are there you must try Annex Kitchen,Prime 13, Wasabi off the hook and Wasabi on Fire, Casa Corona, Heirloom, Butterfish & Batter Up! Also in Visalia, the Vintage Press , Farm Fresh Bowls, Top of the Morn , Glicks, Bufala di Bufalo & Little Italy.

All some of my Fresno favs! Thank you, I will add those to my Visalia list too.

Go to Fresno,Ca Go on date all over Fresno on date and all you get is Harassed at restaurant by homeless people wanting money from you Holtals same way. Go to check in homeless wanting money. So no don’t go to Fresno on a date. You mite get rides are killed.

So sorry to hear that Fresno didn’t wow you!

Love the pottery date idea! And visiting all of the Kuppa thrones! So fun!

Thank you Meghann! We love Kuppa 😉

Visit our Candy Production Center!

Dewar's Candy Shop tours will delight groups of all ages! Come and see our daily production of our World Famous Taffy Chews and Ice Cream

Tours are available: Tuesday ~ Wednesday ~ Thursday

10:30 am by appointment, call for special seasonal hours, (no tours during october, november, december & january), group tours by appointment only, (10 people or more ~ 2 years & under free), admission @ $7.50 per person (tour include a $1.00 gift certificate. good on next visit, tour includes a scoop of ice cream (your choice: strawberry, chocolate or vanilla) and you get to enjoy one of the taffy chews right off the line.

DEWAR'S PRODUCTION CENTER Located at:

1120 Eye Street Bakersfield, Ca. 93304

For Information & Scheduling Call 661-322-0933

Whatever your choice of communication, We would love to hear from you.

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1909 -  CLOSED MAJOR HOLIDAYS  

Find Ice Cream Factory

Choose  Family Owned

Ice cream factory flavors.

Happiness delivered, Shipped on dry ice

our scoop shops

Instagram worthy, the latest news.

Blueberry Shortcake: Now Year-Round

New Flavor ; In Time for 4th of July

Farewell Sugar Cookie

Visiting May 1-13? Please click here for a Traffic Advisory .

COVID-19 Update: Face masks no longer required for fully vaccinated guests. Learn more.

Due to the inclement weather in our area, Turkey Hill Experience is closed January 19, 2024. We will resume normal business operations on Saturday, January 20.

We will be closing at 2:30pm on Wednesday, September 1st due to the forecasted flooding in the area. Be safe!

COVID-19 Update: Click here for new safety protocols and more information.

The Turkey Hill Experience will be closed Saturday, October 14th for a private event . We will re-open to the public on Sunday, October 15th.

Due to the inclement weather in our area, Turkey Hill Experience is closed today, February 20, 2019. We will reopen February 21 at 11am.

Due to the inclement weather in our area, Turkey Hill Experience will be closed today, March 14th. Please check back for updates on operating hours.

Also, due to the inclement weather, Homeschool Day planned for March 15th, 2017 will be rescheduled for March 22nd, 2017. For more information please click here .

The Turkey Hill Experience will be open 12pm-4pm on 12/17/16 due to inclement weather conditions. Ice Cream with Santa will still be 6pm-8pm.

Join us October 22 from 4:30-7:30 for our Halloween Scooptactular event!

The Turkey Hill Experience is fun for the whole family. Explore, play, and learn. All in Columbia, located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

The Turkey Hill Experience will put together a fun day of exploration and birthday activities at one of Lancaster County's favorite family attractions.

Learn about tea origins, aromas, and unique flavors from one of our tea experts, and sample while you learn.

Experience the aromas of popular teas from around the world. Find out which flavor matches your personality with an interactive game.

Visit the Taste Lab and immerse yourself in this hands-on, one-of-a-kind ice cream lover's paradise as you create your very own ice cream flavor.

Annual memberships give you unlimited access to The Turkey Hill Experience, 20% off purchases at the gift shop, and more.

Stop by our Gift Shop when you visit us for shirts, hats, housewares, toys, gift cards and more.

Are you ready to experience Turkey Hill's delicious family attraction?

Come to Lancaster County, PA and learn how our ice cream is made, sit in a milk truck, milk our mechanical cows, and learn about the people and culture of Turkey Hill.

Create your own virtual ice cream flavor, ice cream package and a commercial.

The Turkey Hill Taste Lab allows you to bring your virtual ice cream creation to life as you make your own pint of ice cream!

Discover, taste, and experience tea from around the world in a way you never have before in our Tea Discovery !

Of course, there are unlimited samples of our ice cream and iced tea products, too!

create your own

Make your own virtual ice cream flavor, ice cream package, and even your own television commercial.

• No Sugar Added
• Take Home Snacks
• Single-Serve Snacks
• News & Press Releases
• Store Locator
• Order Ice Cream
• Same Day Local Delivery
• Light & No Sugar Added

This Way to the Little Creamery

Plan a trip to see how we make ice cream at our production facilities located in Brenham, Texas and Sylacauga, Alabama. You can also treat yourself to a scoop of ice cream and shop our Country Store!

Blue Bell Creamery

Brenham, texas.

Visit us in our hometown of Brenham, Texas! Stop by for a scoop of ice cream at the Ice Cream Parlor, shop in the Country Store and learn more about us in our Visitor Center.

Plan Your Visit Get Directions

1101 South Blue Bell Road, Brenham, Texas 77833

(800) 327-8135

Plan Your Visit

Welcome to The Visitor Center

Hours: Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm (CST)

Take a self-guided tour through more than 100-years of our company’s history at the Blue Bell Museum.

Welcome to The Ice Cream Parlor

Enjoy a scoop, or two, of your favorite flavor of Blue Bell Ice Cream. Our Ice Cream Parlor offers a wide selection of our top-selling ice cream and a few you can only find in ice cream parlors! We also offer Blue Bell Frozen Snacks and bottled water.

Welcome to Country Store

Shop our Country Store during your trip for Blue Bell-inspired items like t-shirts, magnets, gift certificates, mugs and more!

You can also find unique items inspired by your favorite brand of ice cream anytime online on the Country Store website.

Welcome to The Observation Deck

Hours: Monday – Friday, 8am – 2pm (CST)

View how we make what some say is, “the best ice cream in the country”. Each day we produce different flavors to keep up with consumer demand.

You can watch as half gallon, pint, quart, and cup containers are filled, as well as 3-gallons tubs that are used at ice cream parlors and restaurants. A Blue Bell employee is available in the Observation Deck to answer questions about our company and the production process.

Your questions, answered.

Frequently asked questions.

We offer a self-guided experience. The Visitor Center, Parlor and Country Store are open to the public. Please check hours posted on our website or call before your visit. Hours are subject to change. Hope to see you soon!

We are open on Saturdays ONLY during the months of June, July and August. Please check hours posted on our website or call before your visit.

The Observation Deck allows visitors a view of our products being made. We also invite you to watch How We Make Ice Cream. It is an up-close look at a day at Blue Bell Creameries. The video is shown continuously in our Ice Cream Parlor area.

Yes, our facility is wheelchair accessible.

Since we are a food manufacturer, pets are not allowed in our facilities unless it is a service animal.

At our Ice Cream Parlor we offer a great selection of hand-dipped Blue Bell Ice Cream flavors (some that are only available at our Ice Cream Parlor!), Blue Bell single-serve snacks and bottled water.

Please visit www.visitbrenhamtexas.com for more information about the surrounding area.

Blue Bell Tip:

Have any questions before you visit the creamery? Give us a call ahead of time at 1-800-327-8135 and we’d be happy to assist you!

Sylacauga, Alabama

Visit us in Sylacauga, Alabama! Stop by for a scoop of ice cream at the Ice Cream Parlor and grab a souvenir in our Country Store.

423 North Norton Avenue Sylacauga, Alabama 35150

(256) 249-6100

(888) 573-5286

Hours: Monday – Friday, 9am – 4:30pm (CST)

Enjoy a scoop, or two, of your favorite flavor of Blue Bell Ice Cream. Our Ice Cream Parlor offers a wide selection of our top-selling ice cream and a few you can only find in ice cream parlors!

Welcome to The Country Store

We do not offer guided tours of our facility. But, we do invite you to spend time at the window that overlooks our Production area. Please check hours posted on our website or call before your visit. Hours are subject to change. Hope to see you soon!

Our facility is not open on weekends.

Since we are a food manufacturer pets are not allowed in our facilities unless it is a registered service animal.

At our Ice Cream Parlor we offer a great selection of hand-dipped Blue Bell Ice Cream flavors…and a few that are only available at our Ice Cream Parlor!

Please visit www.sylacaugachamber.com for more information about the surrounding area.

Bring Belle to life!

Download our coloring page of belle and bring her to life with your own unique colors, download coloring page.

Sweet Moments

Use the hashtag #visitbluebell on your visit and you may be featured here.

Follow Us on Instagram

 Call us: (559) 285-3038 

365 w bedford ave, fresno, ca 93711, jay's top scoops, - flavor availability  is based on weekly options - - check out our instagram for weekly events & flavor options -.

Rocky Road - Is our signature chocolate ice cream spun with almonds and marshmallows, a true homage to the classic Rocky Road.

Oreo Delight - Our most popular flavor is a blend of our signature vanilla ice cream and Oreo cookies. Spun with every Oreo addict in mind.  

Red Wave - Our favorite Strawberry ice cream mixed with a medley of  Blueberries and white chocolate chips

Jay's Speciality Scoops

Oreo Delight

Birthday Cake

Birthday Surprise

Brownie Batter

Triple Crown

Cookie Dough

Cinnamon Bun

Pistachio Almond

Pistachio Toffee

English Toffee

Coconut Almond Joy

Ba-Nilla-Fer

Nutter Chip-A-Roo

Chocolate Chip

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup

Mocha Chunky Monkey

Elvis Delight

Banana Split

Mint Chocolate Chip

Peach Cobbler

Moose Tracks

Jay's Saucy Scoops

These flavors contain less than 5% alcohol, mango margarita, tenessee honey, banana brandy, party  animal, irish knock out.