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Official Factory Tours | Jelly Belly Candy Company

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Jelly Belly Factory Tour

Jelly belly self-guided factory tours.

For a small entrance fee, you can join us for a self guided tour! Reservations are not required.

Factory tours are offered daily, 9:15am to 4:00pm. Featuring:

• HD/4K quality videos to give you an up-close-and-personal look at our candy manufacturing
• Interactive exhibits
• A self-guided walk along the elevated, ¼ mile long tour lane to give you a bird’s-eye view of the entire operation.

Jelly Belly Guided Factory Tour & Museum Experience

Join us for an exciting day at the Jelly Belly Guided Factory Tour & Guided Museum Experience! Located at 1 Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield, CA, USA, this in-person event offers a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of Jelly Belly! A personal tour guide will escort your group of up to 6 people exlusively through the Factory tour and Museum experience. Reservations are required. For available dates, click here .

Guided tours are available 3 times per day at 9:15am, 11:30am, and 1:30pm. Limited to 1 group per time slot. All tours must be booked at least 24 hours prior to your tour's start time. Included:

• Personal guided tour of the Factory tour lane and Museum
• Retail store discount
• Discount at Magic Memories photos

See How it's Made!

• 1 Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield, CA
• We are located halfway between San Francisco and Sacramento off I-80 and Highway 12.

What to do while you're here

• Self-guided tours allow you to explore the ¼ mile journey above the factory at your own pace, enjoying the all-new look at our candy making.
• Interactive exhibits and games along the tour lane
• Browse the Jelly Belly Jelly Bean Art Gallery
• Shop the Jelly Belly Candy Store
• Dine at the Jelly Belly Café
• Shop the Jelly Belly Chocolate Shoppe and Fudge Counter
• Sample your way through the Chocolate & Wine Experience

For Information

• Tour Pricing: All ages are welcome to take our factory tour! Prices are $7.00 for adults and $3.00 for children ages 3 - 17. Ages 2 & under are free. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Active military receive 20% off their ticket price by showing military ID.
• ADA Accessibility: All areas of the Visitor Center and public factory tour are fully ADA accessible. (Strollers and wheelchairs are not provided.)
• Allergen Information: Our Retail Store, Café, and Chocolate Shoppe confections and foods contain certain allergy triggers. Please check out our FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) to learn more about allergens and to submit a question.
• Buses and RVs: Bus and RV parking is available during business hours. Overnight parking is prohibited.
• Hearing Impaired: Videos along the tour lane have been updated to include subtitles to accommodate our guests who are hearing impaired.Large Groups No advanced ticket sales available.
• Holiday Hours: We are closed on New Year's Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. We operate on reduced hours on the 1st Saturday in December, Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. The Jelly Belly Factory has limited-to-no candy production for a three-week period, typically occurring in the month of April. During this time, the Visitor Center will observe regular business hours and conduct tours in a non-producing factory similar to weekend tours. Hours and production schedules are subject to change without notice. Please refer to our Event Calendar for these notifications or call ahead for modified hours.
• Parking: Parking is free! Bus and RV parking is also available during business hours. Overnight parking is prohibited.
• Pets: Service animals are allowed on the public tour lane. A dog walk area for traveling pets is located just off the parking lot on the north side of the facility. Please do not leave pets unattended in vehicles, especially on hot days.
• Photography: You may take photos in the Visitor Center and during your factory tour. Please note that flash photography is not allowed inside the factory.
• Smoke-Free Campus: Jelly Belly operates smoke-free campuses. Smoking and vaping is not permitted on the premises, including parking lots, sidewalks and other common areas.
• Wait Times: Our wait times may vary depending on the time of year. Currently our wait times are 0 to 30 minutes.
• Weekends and Holidays: While we strive to keep all manufacturing areas operating at full capacity Monday through Friday, there may be times some or all areas of the factory will not be operating or operating at full production. Although our candy makers are at home with their families on the weekends, we still conduct factory tours! Our updated HD/4K tour videos throughout the tour lane show a close-up view of all the activities that happen inside the factory. Production schedules are subject to change without notice. Please refer to our Event Calendar for these notifications.
• Weekday Tours: Our working factory operates Monday – Friday. If you want to see the full factory in action, we recommend joining us for a tour during the week. If you can’t make it during the week though, don’t worry! Our weekend tours still get to see all the action on the floor thanks to HD/4K video throughout the tour lane to give you a closer look at what happens down on the factory floor. The Jelly Belly Factory has limited to no candy production for a three-week period, typically occurring in the month of April. During this time, the Visitor Center will observe regular business hours and conduct tours in a non-producing factory similar to weekend tours. Production schedules are subject to change without notice. Please refer to our Event Calendar for these notifications.

For additional tour information, call 1-800-9-JELLYBEAN ( 1-800-953-5592 ).

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Take a Made in America California Factory Tour

California is a great place to see guitars being made, visit a winery , or tour a candy factory . You can see a working mill as well as woodworking tools being manufactured, visit a working nut farm, or see where popular tableware is produced.

California Factories That Offer Tours

Alembic | Rohnert Park, CA

Alembic invites you to visit the factory and see how they make their fine hand-crafted, ready-to-play, and custom basses and guitars. Alembic also produces pre-amps and accessories. Tours are available with advance notice on the first Wednesday of the month

When Alembic started back in 1969, our goal was to create the finest quality American made instruments ever known.  Alembic

Bates Nut Farm | Valley Center, CA

Educational tours, weekdays from January through September. Spend time on the farm and learn how nuts are grown and harvested, the history of nut agriculture in California, tour the roasting, packaging, and storage area, enjoy a hayride, and more.

#Bates Nut Farm

Blue Ox Millworks | Eureka, CA

Tour a working mill that has made pieces for made pieces for state parks, historic cathedrals, Russian East Orthodox churches, two governor’s mansions, and even the White House twice. You’ll see all the woodworking trades that have made Blue Ox Millwork famous.

#Blue Ox Millworks

Heath Ceramics | Sausalito, CA

Visit the sweeping semi-circle factory where Heath Ceramics has been making dinnerware , drinkware , and serveware in the USA since 1959. Factory tour sizes are limited so reservations are required.

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Intel | Santa Clara, CA

Intel offers self-guided visits, group tours, student tours, and field trips at the Intel Museum where you’ll learn about Intel’s history, the science behind the semiconductor industry, and much more.

Jet Propulsion Laboratory | Pasadena, CA

Visitor day tours for groups of 10 or less, public group tours, educational tours, and virtual tours. Guests may also visit the von Karman Visitor Center, the Space Flight Operations Facility, and the Spacecraft Assembly Facility.

#Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Lance Camper Mfg. Corp. | Lancaster, CA.

A behind-the-scenes look at Lance Campers for shoppers, owners, RV enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to learn how Lance campers are made. By appointment, tours are scheduled on the first and third Wednesday of each month.

Sherline | Vista, CA

Sherline manufactures lathes and woodworking tools at a 66,000-square-foot facility that hosts production, assembly, and administrative offices. They invite visitors to take a factory tour, Monday-Friday, excluding holidays.

Taylor | El Cajon, CA

Enjoy a showcase of Taylor guitars when you visit the USA headquarters in El Cajon, CA.

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Shop Taylor Guitars on Amazon

U.S. Borax Visitor Center | Boron, CA

One of the biggest and richest deposits of borax on the planet is buried deep in the Mohave Desert. Take a trip to the visitors center where you’ll get free admission to historical and geological exhibits on the rim of the active borax mine.

More Tours in California

California Chocolate & Candy Factory Tours

Made in the USA Matters has a complete directory of United States chocolate and candy factories that offer tours . Check out the chocolate and candy factory tours in California .

California Cheese Factory Tours

Made in the USA Matters has a complete directory of United States cheese factories that offer tours . Check out the cheese factory tours in California .

California Dairy Farm Tours

Made in the USA Matters has a complete directory of United States dairy farm tours . Check out the dairy farm tours in California .

California Distillery and Brewery Tours

Made in the USA Matters has a complete directory of United States distilleries and breweries that offer tours . Check out the distillery and brewery tours in California .

California Vineyard & Winery Tours

Made in the USA Matters has a complete directory of United States vineyards and wineries that offer tours . Check out the vineyard and winery tours in California .

USA Factory Tours

Did we miss a California factory tour? Please share it with our community in the comments below.

American Dairy Farm Tours | See Dairy Products Made in the USA

American Cheese Factory Tours | See Cheese Made in the USA

American Chocolate & Candy Factory Tours | See Chocolate & Candy Made in the USA

American Potato Chip Factory Tours | See Snack Foods Made in the USA

American Distillery & Brewery Tours | See Spirits Made in the USA

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12 Must-Visit Automotive Factory Tours in the United States

Keep the following in mind before you schedule:

• Most don’t allow cameras or recording devices on the tours
• Minimum ages of visitors around typically between 8 and 12 years old
• Nearly all of these visits require reservations in advance
• Adhere to the dress code guidelines, including closed-toed shoes
• Some tours involve extensive walking, so call ahead if you need special accommodation

Furry Friends: How to safely travel with pets

12. Nissan North America – Smyrna, Tennessee

Limited tours of this vehicle assembly plant near Nashville are offered–only Tuesdays and Thursdays–but a motorized, narrated ride through the assembly of these renowned Nissan vehicles is worth the waiting list. You’ll get to see everything from the Pathfinder to the Altima and the Leaf rolling off the production line. More information.

11. BMW U.S. Factory – Spartanburg, South Carolina

Those interested in getting an inside perspective on the “Ultimate Driving Machine” will love touring the only American BMW factory, which is near Charlotte, NC. For a $10 fee, visitors will get to see the modern engineering marvels of the German brand at work within the production plant. Afterward, swing by the Zentrum museum to see the history of BMW at your own pace. More information .

10. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama – Montgomery, Alabama

If you want to watch the construction of a car you probably own, check out this factory within the historic Montgomery city limits. After watching a prep video and donning your headsets, you’ll be taken on a guided tram tour of the assembly of the Hyundai Sonata and Elantra . The experience is free and occasional evening tour times are offered too. Check out the gift shop after your tour for some Hyundai swag! More information .

9. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky – Georgetown, Kentucky

Welcome to Toyota’s assembly plant in Georgetown, Kentucky!

In the heart of the bluegrass region, not far from Lexington, is a massive Toyota manufacturing plant that has given tours to hundreds of thousands of people since 1990. Visitors can take a free guided tram tour through the inside of the facility while listening to friendly guides over headphones explain the work being done. An 11,500-square-foot Visitor Center includes displays and a Toyota gift shop. More information .

8. Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) – Lafayette, Indiana

If you’re headed to Chicago sometime, swing by the home of North American Subaru production that’s southeast of the Windy City. A free, mile-long walk on an elevated catwalk through the facility offers a unique perspective on production operations, but skirts are highly discouraged for that reason! You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable Subaru tour director on your walk. More information .

7. Ford Rouge Factory – Dearborn, Michigan

The assembly area is only one portion of this thorough five-part, self-guided tour. Apart from seeing the new aluminum F-150 produced in the assembly floor, learn more about the plant’s innovations at the Legacy Theater, Manufacturing Innovation Theater, and Legacy Gallery. Tickets are a bit pricey but it’s one of the few facilities open for weekend tours. More information .

6. Mercedes-Benz US International – Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Get a close-up look at the most luxurious auto brand around by seeing the Visitor Center Museum and taking a guided tour along the assembly floor, which produces such greats as the M-Class . Despite the tour costing a small fee, the experience is highly memorable–and the two mile walk will give you a workout too! More information .

5. Bowling Green Corvette Plant – Bowling Green, Kentucky

Welcome to the home of the Chevy Corvette!

This place halfway between Louisville and Nashville received a lot of attention after a sinkhole appeared in its adjacent National Corvette Museum. Now that it’s being repaired, visitors are flocking to see the Chevy building and tour the assembly plant. For a small fee, you can take an hour-long guided walking tour of the Corvette sports car’s actual construction, from the initial steel structure to the final drive off the line. More information .

4. Honda Heritage – Marysville, Ohio

The Honda Heritage Center in Marysville, Ohio

Although you can’t actually tour the factory here near Columbus which has been producing vehicles for over 50 years, the facility recently opened up a stellar museum on its grounds . You’ll learn about the role the factory has played in the history of the Honda, as well as see fascinating models on display. The best part of the experience is the hands-on activities!  More information .

3. General Motors Fairfax Assembly Plant – Kansas City, Kansas

This GM assembly and stamping facility in the heart of barbecue city offers free walking tours on certain days. If you follow the strict set of safety guidelines, you’ll get to see the process of metal being molded into body panels and attached to vehicles like the Buick LaCrosse and the Chevrolet Malibu . More information .

2. Shelby American Inc – Las Vegas, Nevada

The legacy of Carroll Shelby lives on! This facility has been modifying and selling Ford vehicles for 50 years. If you still have time after seeing the numerous cars on display on the showroom floor, you can get a free tour of the garage (donations accepted). More information .

1. Harley Davidson – Multiple Locations

Harley Davidson powertrain assembly in Kansas City

Multiple Harley Davidson plants offer tours in the US. A free, hour-long walking tour of the manufacturing plant in York, PA is offered, but most visitors prefer the Steel Toe Tour which–for a decent price–gets you entrance to special areas, a commemorative pin, a group photo, a safety vest, and $5 toward the gift shop. A Kids Corner makes this facility suitable for your whole family.

In the heart of Harley history, Menomonee Falls, WI has the northwest plant. You’ll love the interactive museum in downtown Milwaukee and the grand tour of the production facility. Staying overnight? Consider the unique Iron Horse Hotel.

Finally, observe the powertrain operations in Kansas City, MO with a free factory tour of some of the brand’s most beloved models. More information on all three tours .

Safety Tips: Reduce distracted driving and save lives

Aaron is unashamed to be a native Clevelander and the proud driver of a Hyundai Veloster Turbo (which recently replaced his 1995 Saturn SC-2). He gleefully utilizes his background in theater, literature, and communication to dramatically recite his own articles to nearby youth. Mr. Widmar happily resides in Dayton, Ohio with his magnificent wife, Vicki, but is often on the road with her exploring new destinations. Aaron has high aspirations for his writing career but often gets distracted pondering the profound nature of the human condition and forgets what he was writing… See more articles by Aaron.

Visit the Tesla Factory: A Comprehensive Guide to Touring the Birthplace of Electric Cars

Tesla is one of the largest electric vehicle manufacturers in the world, with factories all over the globe. While the Fremont Factory was their first manufacturing site, they have since expanded to include Gigafactories in Nevada, Shanghai, New York, Texas, and Berlin, with more on the way.

Many people wonder if it’s possible to visit the Tesla factories, Gigafactories, or headquarters. The good news is that you can indeed visit the Tesla factory, and there are opportunities to tour some of their other facilities as well. In this article, we’ll explore how to arrange a visit to the Tesla factory and what to expect when you get there.

Tesla Factories Visit

If you’re a Tesla owner or potential owner, you might have heard that it’s possible to visit the Tesla factory. But what’s the truth? Is the Tesla factory open to the public for regular tours? Well, the answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no.

Tesla Owners and Potential Owners

If you’re a Tesla owner or potential owner, you’re in luck! Tesla offers factory tours for Tesla owners. You’ll get to see where your vehicle was made and experience the lively culture of the factory. You’ll also get to see the various processes that a Tesla car goes through during production.

To get a factory tour, you’ll need to go through a specific process, even if you’re a potential owner. However, if you’re enthusiastic about getting a tour, you can convince Tesla to help you out.

Tesla Employee

If you have a friend who works at the Tesla factory, you might be able to schedule a tour with the tour team. For employees of the company or the factory, it’s easier to schedule an appointment for a tour.

If you don’t have a friend who works at the factory, it might be a bit more difficult to schedule a tour. However, it’s not impossible.

Work in Tesla

Another way to visit the Tesla factory is to try and work there. Tesla offers different types of jobs in their company, not just for engineers. They’re interested in hiring dedicated and skill-driven people from any discipline.

If you’re enthusiastic about working at Tesla, you can plan on applying for a job there. By working at Tesla, you’ll get to see more than you would as a tourist on a factory tour. However, keep in mind that working at Tesla requires a lot of hard work.

In conclusion, if you’re a Tesla owner or potential owner, you have a good chance of getting a tour of the Tesla factory. If you have a friend who works at the factory, it might be easier to schedule a tour. And if you’re interested in working at Tesla, you might be able to see even more of the factory.

Tesla Headquarters Visit

While Tesla factories are open to the public, it’s a different story when it comes to the headquarters. The headquarters are not open to the public due to the highly confidential nature of the information kept there. The designs for their previous and future cars and other devices like robots are kept at the headquarters, making it a highly sensitive area.

However, it’s possible for people who work under the company to visit the headquarters. Executives of other top-notch companies can also visit if they are invited for a meeting. Additionally, if someone is there to conduct an important interview, they can go in with permission.

It’s important to note that the headquarters are not as interesting as the factory. It only includes a bunch of desks along with computers where they keep their vital information.

Here are some key takeaways regarding a visit to the Tesla headquarters:

• The headquarters are not open to regular tourists due to the confidential nature of the information kept there.
• Only people who work under the company, executives of other top-notch companies, and those with permission to conduct an important interview can visit the headquarters.
• The headquarters are not as interesting as the factory and only include desks and computers where vital information is kept.

Overall, while the headquarters are not open to the public, Tesla factories are open for tours. Visitors can learn about the manufacturing process and see the innovative technology used to create Tesla vehicles.

Gigafactories and Tesla

Tesla is a company that has been growing rapidly over the years. One of the major aspects of this growth is the construction of their Gigafactories. Gigafactories are massive production facilities that are used for the manufacturing of Tesla’s electric vehicles and energy storage products.

One of the first Gigafactories built by Tesla was Gigafactory 1, located in Nevada. While it was initially inaccessible to the public, it is now open for tours from Tuesday through Friday. The company has added several sections to make the tours more exciting and informative.

However, not all Gigafactories are currently available for tours. For instance, the Texas Gigafactory, which was opened in 2022, is only accessible for invite-only events. The company has not yet opened it for regular tours, but it is expected to be opened to the public in the future.

Similarly, the Berlin Gigafactory is not yet open for public tours. The visitor area is still under construction, and visitors will have to wait until the main building is completed before they can take public tours.

It is worth noting that in the past, access to Gigafactory tours was limited to a selected few people who were members of the investment community or owners of Tesla who referred someone else for buying a Tesla Model S or Tesla Model X. However, the company has since opened up the tours to the public, making it possible for anyone to visit and learn more about Tesla’s manufacturing process.

In summary, while some Gigafactories are open for public tours, others are not yet accessible to the public. However, Tesla is constantly expanding and improving its facilities, and it is expected that more Gigafactories will be opened to the public in the future.

Tesla Factory Tour Activities

If you are lucky enough to schedule a Tesla factory tour, you will enjoy a 60-minute tour of the factory. However, in some cases, the tour can last for 75-90 minutes, depending on the location and current tour processes.

In some Gigafactories, visitors are not allowed to walk around the factory on their own. Instead, they are offered a ride on a tram, which will take them around the factory with a tour guide. The tour guide will provide detailed information about the factory and answer any questions visitors may have.

On the other hand, some Gigafactories offer walking tours, allowing visitors to explore the factory on foot. The tour guide will accompany visitors and provide information about the factory.

Tesla factory tours are an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn about the company’s manufacturing processes and innovations. Visitors can see firsthand how Tesla produces its electric vehicles and learn about the company’s commitment to sustainability.

Tesla Factory Tour Requirements: Dos and Don’ts

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable Tesla factory tour experience, visitors must abide by certain rules and regulations. Tesla requires all visitors to provide a photo ID and sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before entering the factory. Moreover, visitors must be at least 18 years old.

Tesla suggests that visitors wear flat and close-toe shoes, long pants, and sleeved shirts or tees. Sandals, heels, or ballet flats are strictly prohibited in Tesla factories.

Visitors are not allowed to take photos or record anything inside the factory. Doing so can result in legal action and the cancellation of the tour.

It is important to note that different tour locations may have additional requirements, and visitors should follow all guidelines provided by Tesla. Bringing family, friends, or guests may be limited or not allowed, depending on the location.

Overall, following these Tesla factory tour requirements will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Visiting Tesla factories is an exciting opportunity for friends and family. However, it’s important to follow Tesla’s requirements to avoid tour cancellations or being denied entry. For more information, visit Tesla.com. Remember to keep paragraphs short and engage readers with a confident and knowledgeable tone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to book a tour of a tesla factory.

To book a tour of a Tesla factory, you can visit the official Tesla website and visit the ‘Factory Tours’ page. From there, you can select the factory you want to visit and check the availability of the tours. You can also book a tour by calling the Tesla customer support team.

Are there any Tickets Required for Tesla Factory Tours?

Tesla factory tours are free of charge, but you need to book a reservation in advance. You can book a tour by visiting the Tesla website or by calling the Tesla customer support team. Tesla owners can bring up to three guests on the tour.

Where is the Tesla Fremont Factory Located?

The Tesla Fremont factory is located in Fremont, California, United States. The factory is situated at 45500 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, CA 94538.

What are the Operating Hours for the Tesla Fremont Factory Tours?

The Tesla Fremont factory tours are available from Monday to Friday, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The tours last approximately 1.5 hours.

How Large is the Tesla Factory Located in Austin, Texas?

The Tesla factory located in Austin, Texas, is known as the Tesla Gigafactory Texas. The factory is spread over 2,100 acres, making it one of the largest factories in the world. The factory is expected to produce the Tesla Model Y, Tesla Semi, and Tesla Cybertruck.

What Job Opportunities are Available at the Tesla Texas Factory?

The Tesla Gigafactory Texas is expected to create thousands of job opportunities in the region. The factory is expected to employ engineers, technicians, factory workers, and administrative staff. Tesla has already started hiring for various positions at the Texas factory. You can visit the Tesla Careers website to check the available job opportunities.

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Fremont Factory

Fremont, California

Join Us in California

Accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy at our hub for Model S, Model 3, Model X and Model Y production.

Fremont Factory is one of the largest manufacturing sites in California—with open roles across teams and at all levels. We offer a 401(k) match, generous paid time off, full medical, dental and vision coverage and more.

Manufacturing

Our products are manufactured by real people alongside robots performing superhuman tasks. Join a diverse and inclusive workforce tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges.

Apply to determine the root cause of problems, establish robust procedures and lead your team to success

Apply to inspect, diagnose or repair systems within a motivated team

Production Associate

Apply to receive on-the-job training to use advanced manufacturing equipment—no college degree required

Employee Benefits 

Comprehensive benefits from day one and options available with zero out-of-pocket paycheck deductions

Personal Benefits

Full medical, dental and vision coverage

Maternity and paternity leave

Competitive starting wage and 401(k) matching

Generous paid time off and flexible scheduling

Discounted stock purchase program

Discounted accessories and upgrades, including free Full Self-Driving

Free shuttles, monthly carpool subsidies and Bike to Work Earning Program

Free EV charging

Discounts on dining, travel, cellular, fitness resources and more

Factory Conveniences

Cafeterias, food trucks and outdoor patios

In-house medical support

On-site training centers

Gyms at select locations

Rethink the future of sustainable energy

Tesla participates in the E-Verify Program .

Tesla is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Tesla is also committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. Please let your recruiter know if you need an accommodation at any point during the interview process.

For quick access to screen reading technology compatible with this site,  download a free compatible screen reader ( view the free step-by-step tutorial ).

Cheese / chocolate / BREWERY - TOP CA CATEGories

California factory & maker tours near you.

Discover all the great factory and maker tours around you in California (CA). Industrial and food factories, farm and maker tours are becoming more popular as they provide hours of entertainment and are cheap and often free. Tours are great for creative date ideas and family adventures with many factory production lines surprisingly kid friendly and educational.

01. Jelly belly

Fairfield, ca.

Self-guided tours allow you to explore the ¼ mile journey above the factory at your own pace, enjoying the all-new look at our candy making. Included in your factory tour ticket you have access to the Jelly Belly Museum and the Jelly Belly Express Train Ride. At the end you can shop the Jelly Belly Chocolate Shoppe and Fudge Counter.

You can also browse the Jelly Belly Jelly Bean Art Gallery, shop the Jelly Belly Candy Store, dine at the Jelly Belly Café, shop the Jelly Belly Chocolate Shoppe and Fudge Counter & more…

The working factory operates Monday – Friday. If you want to see the full factory in action, they recommend joining a tour during the week. 

02. Oakdale Cheese & Specialties

Oakdale, ca.

Come by and learn more about the process and the people of Oakdale Cheese & Specialties. Enjoy a free self-guided tour of their facility. Enjoy their varieties of national award-winning Gouda. Customers can enjoy their cheese, relax and have a picnic under the trees next to the pond.

03. Joe Matos Cheese & Farmstead Co.

Santa rosa, ca.

The farmstead is open daily. No official tour but a simple visit is quite a unique experience of its own as you travel down their quarter mile gravel driveway right into the heart of their working farm. Drive carefully and watch for children, tractors, cows, chickens, ducks, geese and goats! Taste the St. Jorge cheese and purchase cheese & beef at their Cheese Factory sales room.

04. Golden Gate Fortune Cookie

San francisco, ca.

Since 1962, San Francisco’s legendary Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory has been making custom fortune cookies by hand. Visit and watch their team make these delectable treats by hand. Over 10,000 fortune cookies made each day, baked fresh on a cast iron rotating griddle wheel. This unique experience is not to be missed!

05. Dandelion Chocolate

A lively tour of their active bean-to-bar chocolate factory. A self guided walk-through of our chocolate-making process (and plenty of samples!). They talk about sourcing from various cocoa origins and share info about cacao trees, then taste your way through fresh cacao pods, roasted cocoa beans, molten chocolate, and finally finished single-origin chocolate bars.

05. Anchor Brewing

Get a glimpse at centuries-old craft brewing traditions, a taste of San Francisco history, and a flight of selected Anchor beers.

06. Bates Nut Farm Educational Tour

Valley center, ca.

They offer a variety of tours for your group of 15 or more.

Visit Bates Nut Farm and be reminded of the simpler things in life!  Each year the Bates family welcomes thousands of visitors from all over the world. Today the fourth and fifth generation families are working on the family farm that was established in 1921.

“Nuts For You” Tour • Weekdays January – September.

Pumpkin Patch Field Trips • Weekdays in October.

Harvest Tour • Weekdays November – December

07. Kennedy Goldmine Tour

Jackson, ca.

The Kennedy Mine, famous for being one of the deepest gold mines in the world (at 5912 feet), demonstrates how gold changed an entire way of life in California. Open every Saturday, Sunday and Holiday from 10 AM to 3:30 PM.

A free self-guided tour or a guided surface tours that cost $12 Adult and $7 Child. 

Visit the Kennedy Gold Mine and gain new insight into the complications and hardships of the miner’s way of life !

08. Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience

At Ghirardelli, they pride ourselves on making quality chocolate so delicious it makes life a bite better. They are the longest continually operating chocolatier in America, Ghirardelli has delighted consumers with new chocolate experiences for nearly two centuries and you can learn more about their history here! 

Please note: Parts of the Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience are under renovation with a reopening date of Summer 2023. The renovated store format will showcase the brand’s history in chocolate, sundae making and other fountain and bakery favorites like milkshakes, hot chocolate, brownies, cookies and freshly made daily hot fudge.

09. Hilmar Cheese Tour

Free Self-Guided Visitor Center Tours. 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-pound crates of cheese. 

For a little extra try the Public Ice Cream Making Tour.Come create (and eat) your own ice cream. Take the tour followed by the ice cream activity. Join the fun as you “shake, rattle and roll” to create your own homemade individual ice cream. Fun for all ages, especially those “young at heart.”

10. McEVOY RANCH Walkabout tours

Petaluma, ca.

The walkabout tours are a quintessential way to experience the Ranch’s natural beauty and many unique facets.

Learn about our rich history while you explore the Lower & Upper Ranch, exclusively accessible by tour. Select from a Public Walkabout Ranch & Art Tour or a Private Ranch & Art Tour which is paired with our Reserve Olive Oil Tasting.

For reservation questions or changes, contact us at (707) 778-2307 or email us at  [email protected] . 

11. Eagle Mining Co. Mine Tours

Discover an exciting learning experience at The Eagle Mining Co. in Julian, California. Their old-fashioned gold mine offers terrific and informative California tours that guide adventures through the world of a 1870s mining operation. Join us and learn as we help preserve our state’s rich history. The tours last one hour, and are conducted by a courteous professional. They are also oriented towards good, clean, family fun.

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Welcome to your guide to factory tours!

Ever wonder how the fortune gets into the fortune cookie? How toothpaste gets into the tube? Or how sheet metal is welded into a shiny new car or motorcycle? Having traveled thousands of miles and personally visited hundreds of factory tours since 1992, we invite you to explore some manufacturing mysteries of the world. Since most of the tours are free, and many give free samples, factory tours and company museums remain the best vacation value in America. Come along for the ride!

The Toronto Star featured an article on me and some of the factory tours I have written about. I am quoted in a CNN Travel feature about nine great factory tours. We also wrote an article for the magazine Leisure Group Travel and was mentioned in Travel & Leisure .

Your guide to factory tours, Karen Axelrod Author and Factory Tour Consultant

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Best US Factory Tours and Museums

Related to:, celestial seasonings.

celestial seasonings, factory, tour, boulder, colorado

Photo by: Courtesy of Celestial Seasonings

Courtesy of Celestial Seasonings

We’ve all had a cup of Sleepytime tea, but have you ever wondered what goes into making that little pouch of goodness? At the Celestial Seasonings factory, visitors can watch as herbal tea ingredients are blended, packaged and shipped to your local grocery store. The tours are free, and include free samples of all the different Celestial Seasonings tea varieties.

Harley-Davidson

harley davidson, motorcycle, factory, york, pennsylvania

Photo by: Klaus Nahr , Flickr CC-BY-SA-2.0

Klaus Nahr , Flickr CC-BY-SA-2.0

Get in touch with your inner biker at the Harley-Davidson factory in York, PA, where the Touring, Softail and Trike models are all made. Catch a glimpse of the manufacturing and assembly process, and sit on a Harley before it’s shipped from the factory.

Jelly Belly

jelly belly, factory, tour, fairfield, california

Photo by: Jelly Belly Candy Company

Jelly Belly Candy Company

Did you know that a jelly bean takes at least a week to make? Find out why on a Jelly Belly factory tour in Fairfield, CA, where 150 different jelly bean flavors are constantly being cooked up. Tours are free, but make sure to check out the candy store and chocolate shop before you leave.

Louisville Slugger

louisville slugger, museum, factory, kentucky

Photo by: Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory to see how the iconic bats are made. The factory museum also has a collection of retired Louisville Sluggers that have been swung by some of baseball’s greats. Tours are $10, and you’ll get your very own miniature bat!

The Crayola Factory

crayola crayons, factory, easton, pennsylvania

Photo by: William Thomas Cain/Getty Images

William Thomas Cain/Getty Images

While there is not an actual manufacturing plant onsite, the Crayola Factory serves as a museum and visitor center where you can become an expert on how the famous crayons are made. Learn about Crayola’s history, color on the walls, play with sidewalk chalk, and watch as your own souvenir box of crayons is made.

Intel Museum

intel, museum, santa clara, california

Photo by: Bloomberg/Getty Images

Bloomberg/Getty Images

The Intel Museum is a 10,000-square-foot learning experience. Watch as employees demonstrate how silicon chips are made, and even try on one of the “bunny suits,” which workers must wear while manufacturing the chips.

Maker's Mark Distillery

makers mark, distillery, loretto, kentucky

Visit this National Historic Landmark to learn about the distillery’s history, watch the fermentation process, and get a look at the barrels that the whiskey ages in. The tour also includes a look at the bottling area, where workers hand-dip the top of each bottle in Maker’s Mark’s signature red wax.

Hershey's Chocolate World

hersheys chocolate world, factory, hershey, pennsylvania

Photo by: Gary Burke/Moment/Getty Images

Gary Burke/Moment/Getty Images

Feel like you stepped into a scene from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Hershey’s Chocolate World . Walk through a tropical jungle where cocoa beans are harvested, take a simulated factor tour, create your own candy bar, and don’t forget to pick up your free sample!

mack truck, museum, allentown, pennsylvania

Photo by: Lehigh Valley, PA

Lehigh Valley, PA

Head to Macungie, PA, to see how Mack trucks are made. Be prepared, because the factory tour includes 1.5 miles of walking! Stop by the Mack Museum in Allentown, PA, to see truck models from 1907 to 1973.

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream

ben and jerrys, ice cream, factory, waterbury, vermont

Photo by: Raffi Asdourian , via Flickr

Raffi Asdourian , via Flickr

Located in Vermont’s Green Mountains, the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream factory is a must-see for satisfying any sweet tooth. Get a glimpse of the ice cream production line, watch a “moo-vie” on the company’s history, and stop at the Flavoroom for a taste of the flavor of the day. Don’t forget to visit the flavor graveyard, the final resting place for retired ice cream varieties.

Gibson Guitar Factory

gibson, guitars, factory, nashville, tennessee

The Gibson luthiers (string-instrument makers) bind, paint, neck-fit, buff and tune the famous guitars right at the Memphis factory. Watch as they make some of the same guitars that have been played by Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix.

Tabasco Factory

tabasco factory, avery island, louisiana

Photo by: Omar Torres/AFP/Getty Images

Omar Torres/AFP/Getty Images

Visit tiny Avery Island on the Bayou to learn how the famous hot-pepper sauce is made, aged, bottled and shipped. Make sure to stop at the Tabasco Country Store at the tour’s end for a taste of Tabasco-flavored ice cream and to pick up Tabasco-inspired souvenirs.

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7 Fantastic Factory Tours You Can Only Take In Southern California

Natasha Kayes

I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.

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From bread to candy and vehicles to musical instruments, there are so many things produced in Southern California. It is one thing to enjoy a high-quality finished product, but even better to see firsthand the work and skill that goes into making it. Get a sort of backstage pass with these seven factory tours in Southern California and see how some wonderful products come together.

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Have you had the chance to take any of these awesome tours in Southern California? Share your tour experiences with us in the comments. If you love tours, check out these other amazing tours you can take in SoCal .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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From planes to crayons, these fun factory tours go behind the scenes

Feb 14, 2020 • 7 min read

What’s more fun than breaking open a bright new box of crayons or digging a spoon into a melty pint of ice cream? Getting a behind-the-scenes look at how they’re made, of course.

Whether you’re a super fan or are just generally curious, companies around the US – some that have been in business for decades, and in some cases, for over a century – are offering a fresh new way to experience their goods. Visiting the factory offers insight on how a product comes to life, usually in a hands-on, interactive and fun way. From Cape Cod potato chips to PEZ candies, these 11 factory tours are worth a visit.

PEZ Factory – Orange, Connecticut

The world’s largest PEZ dispenser, vintage Star Wars PEZ and a PEZ motorcycle can all be found in the 4000 sq ft visitor’s center of the company’s candy-making factory . From floor-to-ceiling windows, see the tiny tabs being packaged. (Along with its sister candy-making factory in Traun, Austria, the company produces 5 billion candies each year).

Take time to explore the decades of memorabilia packed into the two-story center, and go on a scavenger hunt for a chance to win a sweet prize at the end.

Ben & Jerry’s – Waterbury, Vermont 

Every ice cream lover should add a Waterbury, Vermont , pilgrimage to their bucket list. The Ben & Jerry’s factory tour gives guests a front-row peek into the ice cream-making process, an overview of the company’s colorful history, and – the best part – a sample of the flavors. Finish the visit with a stroll around the company’s outdoor Flavor Graveyard, an ode to discontinued pints.

If a 30-minute tour isn’t enough, opt for the Flavor Fanatic Experience; the $225, two-hour package includes a private guided factory tour, a tie-dyed lab coat, and a hands-on mixing and tasting session in the Flavor Lab, led by one of the company’s Flavor Gurus.

Cape Cod Chips – Hyannis, Massachusetts

In Hyannis, Massachusetts, find the Kennedy compound, the fast ferries to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, and the Cape Cod Potato Chip factory. More than 250,000 visitors each year take the free, self-guided tour, which includes a walk through the facility to see potato chips made in custom kettles, plus relics from the first factory dating back to the 1980s.

At the end of the tour, break open your complimentary chips at an umbrella-shaded table on the sunny patio. (The tour is available Monday to Friday from 9am-5pm.)

US Mint – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

If you have coins in your pocket, there’s a good chance they were minted in Philadelphia . (You can tell by the tiny “P” stamped on one side.) In the city of brotherly love, the US Mint has been producing coins for over 225 years, and visitors can see the process during the self-guided, 45-minute tours available to the public most days.

See the coining operation from 40ft above the factory floor, check out the historic artifacts, like the press used to make the nation’s first coins in 1792, and see the series of seven, 5ft-tall Tiffany glass mosaics created to commemorate the opening of the third US Mint building in 1901. While the Mint sadly doesn’t offer free samples, you can buy commemorative coins and other collectibles in the gift shop.

You might also like: Philadelphia will be known as 'The City of Sisterly Love' for the remainder of 2020

Jelly Belly Factory – Fairfield, California

The sixth-generation family-run candy company has been in business since 1898, and making the beloved Jelly Beans since 1976. At the Jelly Belly Factory , self-guided tours lead visitors through a quarter mile-long elevated path, with interactive exhibits and a view of the factory floor. For a flat fee of $39 for groups of up to six, private tour guides will take you through. In the end, everyone gets free samples of the rainbow-hued treat.

Louisville Slugger Factory  – Louisville, Kentucky

You can’t miss the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory , located in downtown Louisville , Kentucky. The 120ft, 68,000 pound, world’s largest baseball bat leans against the side of the building, marking the entrance. Louisville Slugger has been making its iconic bats since 1884, and the factory and museum give visitors an up-close look at how they’re produced. Walk through the line to see the step-by-step process, explore the Bat Vault, with a copy of nearly every bat the company has ever made, and leave with a souvenir mini bat, free for tour-goers.

You might also like: A spirited trip through Kentucky bourbon country

Tillamook Creamery Factory – Tillamook, Oregon

Inside the strikingly modern facade of Oregon’s Tillamook Creamery Factory , the milk produced by the cows on the company’s fourth generation farm is transformed into award-winning cheeses. Get a bird’s-eye view from the observation windows, down onto the factory floor, as the process goes from fresh milk to cheese curds to aged cheddars.

The sprawling, state-of-the-art aging warehouse on site houses upwards of 37 million pounds of cheese, which age from 60 days to 6 years before being sent back out to the warehouse to be cut into bricks and packed up for the grocery store. Don’t leave before sampling all the cheese.

Hershey’s Chocolate Factory – Hershey Pennsylvania

In the central Pennsylvania town of Hershey, the lamp posts are shaped like Hershey’s Kisses and there’s usually a faint whiff of chocolate in the air. To find the source, head straight for the Hershey’s Chocolate Factory . During the free, 30-minute tour, visitors can take an immersive journey through the facility to see how chocolate is made, from cocoa bean to foil-wrapped bar, and finish with a Hershey’s treat.

For $26.95, the create-your-own candy bar tour lets visitors make their own confection, and design a personalized wrapper for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Crayola Experience – Easton, Pennsylvania

Crayola has been in business for over a century, making iconic crayons and coloring accoutrements for kids and adults alike. (Color Escapes, ie adult coloring books, were introduced in 2015.) The colorful company has a manufacturing plant in Pennsylvania ’s Lehigh Valley, about halfway between Philadelphia and New York City, and about ten minutes away, visitors can check out the Crayola Experience . Guests can see how crayons are made in a live show, pose for a personalized coloring page, mold a critter or character out of crayon wax, and name a color, taking home a keepsake crayon.

Taylor Guitars – San Diego, California

Seasoned musicians and anyone who appreciates a good Spotify playlist will love the thoroughly educational look into how Taylor Guitars are made. Every weekday at 1pm, free, guided tours are offered at the legendary manufacturer of premium acoustic guitars, used by artists like Taylor Swift, Dave Matthews, and Zac Brown.

The 75-minute tour takes place right on the factory floor, so visitors can soak up each step of the process, from choosing the wood and assembling the pieces to finished product. Don’t miss the guitar room, where myriad models are available to test out. (Tours aren’t offered on weekday holidays, so check the schedule before visiting.)

Boeing – Everett, Washington 

The Future of Flight Aviation Center & Boeing Tour is located just north of Seattle , at the company’s Everett factory. Inside the building – which is the largest in the world, by volume – the aircraft design and manufacturing company assembles the 747, 767, 777 and 787 planes. The 90-minute tour is the only one of its kind in North America, offering a look inside a working commercial jet engine assembly plant, and highlights include the factory tour, plus the Boeing gallery that showcases over 150 products the company makes and is developing, including satellites, submarines, and alternative fuels.

On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, the facility offers hands-on robotics workshops, introducing visitors to the basics of coding robots for use in the manufacturing process. Tours are so popular, travelers can book day trips from downtown Seattle that include transportation, hotel pickup and dropoff. (Visitors must be 4, or 122 cm tall, to go on the tour.)

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21 Great American Factory Tours You Can Take Right Now

Many historic American factories are open to the public. Here are the ones worth the trip.

There's probably no escaping taking the kids to an amusement park this summer—sweltering in long lines and paying for overpriced junk food. But when that torment is over, take them to a different kind of theme park, one you'll both enjoy: an American factory. You'll see how baseball gloves are made. Or how they print the posters for your favorite concert. Or how a guy at Harley-Davidson takes every bike up to 77 mph on what looks a lot like an automotive treadmill. Sometimes you'll even get candy. And unlike at Six Flags, admission is often free.

1. Hatch Show Print

Nashville, Tennessee:  75 minutes; $15 (adults), $10 (ages 6 to 12)

Nashville's recent "it city" status has our skyline so dotted with cranes that longtime residents have started calling it Little Dubai. I worry that the town where my ten-year-old daughter, Margot, was born is becoming unrecognizable to her. So I decided a tour of the Hatch Show Print letterpress was in order.

"What's a letterpress?" Margot asked.

"They make music posters," I said. She got excited.

"Think they have any of Taylor Swift?" she asked.

"Maybe," I said, explaining that they've been in business since 1879, and have worked with just about every musician you can think of—from Elvis Presley to Elvis Costello.

"Who's Elvis Costello?" Margot asked.

The production process hasn't changed much in over a century. Some of the letter blocks—exactly 0.918 inches high, a standard established in 1886 by the United States Type Founders' Association—are the original end-cut maple versions. This isn't Photoshop. There is no erasing. If even the smallest amount of grit builds up beneath an individual block, it must be sanded by hand so that it prints evenly. The rollers have to be reinked every four prints—each one slightly more faded than the last. These subtle inconsistencies are what make Hatch Show Print posters so special: No two look exactly alike.

The craftsmanship wowed my daughter—just like it had wowed me on my first visit, not long after I moved to Nashville two decades ago. But her favorite part was the end, when we got to browse through an inventory of photo plates and posters dating back to the shop's very first print run. I marveled at the photo plate for Led Zeppelin's first Nashville appearance in 1970. Then I glanced over and spotted Margot. She had the very same grin on her face. She was looking at a poster from Taylor Swift's "Speak Now" tour. —Adam Ross

2. The U.S. Mint

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Also Denver, Colorado): 45 minutes; free

From a 40-foot observation deck you'll see coins—tens of millions each day—sliced from metal coils that weigh 6,000 pounds and stretch five football fields. Inspectors use magnifying glasses to check the quality. Just one flaw in one coin and the entire batch is destroyed and recycled.

3. John Deere

Waterloo, Iowa (Also East Moline, Illinois, and Ankeny, Iowa): 90 minutes; free

Tours take place on a tram pulled by—what else?—a John Deere tractor. Huge robotic arms spray each vehicle in signature green and yellow. But the logo is still applied by hand.

4. Airstream

Jackson Center, Ohio: One to two hours; free

Each of the iconic travel trailers has thousands of rivets holding together huge sheets of aircraft-grade aluminum. And every one of those rivets is drilled in by hand. Once finished, the campers go into the rain-test booth, where they're pounded by hurricane-strength rain for 20-minute cycles.

5. Bourbon Barrel Foods

Louisville, Kentucky: 25 minutes; free

The nation's only soy sauce microbrewer—yes, soy sauce microbrewer—uses repurposed bourbon barrels and limestone-filtered Kentucky spring water to create a uniquely smoky-sweet condiment. FDA restrictions keep you from the factory floor, but you can still watch through glass as workers cook soybeans, roast grain, and press mash with six tons of force.

6. Woolrich

Woolrich, Pennsylvania: One hour; free

Woolrich has been churning out fabric since 1830, including blankets for Civil War soldiers. And for the factory's 60-odd employees, working with raw wool—a single blanket takes roughly four pounds—is its own kind of battle. A variety of heirloom machines dye, comb, spin, wind, warp, weave, wash, and roll the material before it can be turned into something you'd cozy up with on the couch.

7. Coors Brewing Company

Golden, Colorado: 30 minutes; free

What kind of dad takes his five-year-old son on a brewery tour? A cool one, I thought, boarding the shuttle bus to the Coors plant in Golden, Colorado—the largest single-site brewery in the world, capable of turning out 13 million barrels of beer annually. To me, it was just another father–son outing—a chance to see something new and learn something interesting. Like the zoo, but with the freshest free beer imaginable. Little did I suspect my boy would end up scarred for life.

In and of itself, the self-guided tour is utterly wholesome, an experience as pure as the vaunted Rocky Mountain spring water that prompted Adolph Coors to set up shop in Golden back in 1873. Exhibits explain ingredients, malting, mashing, etc., while affording a look at impressive mechanized assembly lines that channel endless rivers of freshly filled cans and packed cardboard cases in perfect perpetual motion. It wasn't easy to detach my son's nose from the observation window, but over the clack of the machinery, Daddy discerned the siren song of the samples that await responsible drinkers of legal age at the end of the tour.

As I sipped a cold glass of Coors and my son a soda, we surveyed our surroundings: an ersatz pub, decorated with old advertisements—including one featuring E.T. (left), that lovable extraterrestrial, imploring imbibers to "phone home" for a ride should they overindulge. This seemingly harmless poster, unfortunately, made by far the largest impression of the day on my son. What is that thing? Is it coming to get me? What part of me do you think it would eat first? Years later, the poor lad is still uncommonly concerned with the perceived dangers posed by aliens, even smiling ones in bartenders' aprons.

Then again, if that keeps him out of the taverns for a few extra years, maybe it's not all bad. —Kendall Hamilton

8. Golden Flake

Birmingham, Alabama: 45 minutes; free

When my wife and I moved from New York City to Birmingham, Alabama, five years ago, I'd braced myself for culture shock. I knew as much about college football and black-eyed peas as I do thermonuclear fusion. But while I'm still rusty on the vagaries of the wishbone formation, we definitely came out ahead. We've got a yard now, and a dog, and some savings. And we live ten minutes from a snack-food factory.

Since 1923, Golden Flake, "The South's Original Potato Chip," has been supplying chips and puffs and curls and popcorn and pork skins from Florida up through Virginia, in flavors as unlikely as Tangy Pickle BBQ and just plain Hot. It is tiny next to the Utzes and Pringles of the world, and touring its 700-employee Birmingham facility can feel like visiting a friend's home-brewing shed, if instead of beer he churned out Chili Lime Pork Cracklin Super Strips.

"This is our cheese puff, corn puff, and popcorn department," said both our guide and, I hope, whoever greets me in the afterlife. There are 14-foot drums of vegetable oil and giant rotating seasoning cylinders and kind-looking ladies slicing potatoes in half (by hand, for quality control). The highlight comes at the halfway point: a basket brimming with potato chips plucked fresh off the conveyor belt, intercepted between fryer and bagging station, and offered to you for sampling. It is the perfect bite of a perfect chip. Thin but still crunchy, with just-too-much salt. Whatever's in your pantry seems like wafer-shaped Styrofoam in comparison.

It's just one of several snack breaks on the tour. If your taste buds still want more—and they will—you get a few complimentary bags to take home. Lucky for me, I was already there. —Brian Barrett

Everett, Washington: 90 minutes; $20 (adults), $14 (age 15 and under)

When you're stuck in the middle seat and the baby behind you is wailing, it's easy to forget what a miracle an airplane is. You won't after visiting Boeing—the largest building in the world, big enough to fit Disneyland with 13 acres to spare—and witnessing 30,000 employees assemble millions of parts and miles of wiring into 747s and other jumbo jets.

10. Chevrolet Corvette

Bowling Green, Kentucky: One hour; $10 (adults), $5 (ages 10 to 16)

So you're buying a Corvette Z06. First off, congratulations. A supercar. You're a lucky man. But why stop there? For an extra five grand you can hop on the assembly line at the Bowling Green factory and help build your 650-hp engine, which gets emblazoned with a plaque commemorating the experience. For those on a budget, $10 gets you the standard factory tour—still thrilling, just no keys at the end.

11. Harley-Davidson

York, Pennsylvania: Two hours; free or $35

There's a free tour, but it keeps you on the periphery of the shop. Pay the $35 for the Steel Toe Tour and you get to walk up and down the aisles, right next to the workers as bike parts are delivered to them, on-demand, by a trolley that follows magnetic tracks in the floor. At the end, the guys put each finished Harley on a dyno machine and steadily bring it up to 77 mph, running the bike through all the gears.

12. Fender Guitars

Corona, California: One hour; $10 (adults), $8 (seniors), $6 (ages 13 to 17), free (ages 12 and under)

The first time I saw a Fender Telecaster up close was in 1979 on the stage of the Hollywood Palladium. I was 14, and Joe Strummer was next to me pounding out the chords to The Clash's "White Riot"—the two of us shouting the lyrics along with a few other teenage punks who had also scrambled onstage during the encore.

Strummer was thousands of miles from his London home that night. But his battered axe? That wondrous machine had been born less than an hour south, in Fullerton, California, where in the early 1950s self-described tinkerer Leo Fender revolutionized the electric guitar. Since that encounter with Strummer, I've seen hundreds of other Fenders—as a music journalist as well as in my short time as a drummer, which included a stint with punk legends Bad Religion. But I didn't fully appreciate their magic until I strapped on a pair of Devo-like safety goggles and took my first tour of the Fender Factory.

It all starts with unremarkable blocks of alder and ash. From this wood, about 400 employees—more than a few aging longhairs among them—shape, sand, seal, and paint the classic Telecaster and more angular Stratocaster bodies. They then fit the necks, attach the wound pickups, and connect the knobs. Finally, each instrument is plugged in to a row of new Fender amps to check the sound quality.

In the summer, crowds for the twice-daily tour average 50 people. On the April morning I visited, there were only six of us, including two middle-aged Swedes. Afterward, browsing a showroom filled with memorabilia of Fender-playing guitar gods, I asked the guys what made them travel all this way. One clearly didn't understand En glish. The other only a little. He smiled, pointed to a poster of Jimi Hendrix, and simply said, "Him." Returning the gesture, I pointed across the room, to a display about punk. The centerpiece: a replica of Strummer's banged-up Telecaster. —John Albert

13. Lodge Cast Iron Manufacturing

South Pittsburg, Tennessee: Last weekend in April, 45 minutes; free

You can't get in while the factory is running—it's way too dangerous—but once a year (during April's National Cornbread Festival, naturally) Lodge opens its doors to tourists. Hard to say what's more amazing: the electromagnet that can lift five tons, the furnace that burns at 2,800 degrees Fahrenheit, or the pouring machine that uses ancient sand-molding techniques to create as many as 8,000 skillets an hour.

14. Wood -Mizer

Batesville, Indiana: 30 minutes; free

I live in rural Indiana, in the north part of a farm county. Out here, the sight of a Wood-Mizer, the industrious portable saw mill, passing by behind a pickup or being towed up onto someone's acreage for a few days of transformative deep-woods lumber milling, is a moment of awe, rare and powerful, like catching sight of a panther or something. In the right conditions, three men and a Wood-Mizer can mill enough lumber to build an entire pole barn or a fishing cabin in just a day. It is a tool of thrift, profit, and creativity. I don't own one—I'm just another fanboy—but I do have a hat. And the logo alone gets me silent nods of respect from farmers who otherwise want nothing to do with me.

I bought the hat after going on the Wood-Mizer factory tour in Batesville, Indiana. (It was cheaper than the sawmill.) The six-month-old plant churns calmly forward, the assembly line formed in the shape of a U. There's no shouting. No rushing. No alarm registered along any of the snug, worker-designed assembly. There's notable focus in the workforce—risen from pride, taken from ownership (the 34-year-old company is entirely worker owned)—that permeates the movement and pace from loading dock to shipping dock. For me, the moment I recognized the familiar machine occurred right in the turn of that U, after the powdered orange paint was kiln-dried onto the steel frame. Then the wheels were attached and the custom motor mounted.

And then I couldn't help myself. "There's the big cat," I exclaimed, like some kid seeing a ballplayer parking his car. The guy on the line heard me. "You gonna build something?" he asked, assuming I was a buyer. I smiled and pointed to my factory-supplied earplugs. "I'm just on a tour," I said, but he couldn't hear me. "Build something great," he said. He was standing over a new Wood-Mizer, so it sounded like a promise. —Tom Chiarella

Nocona, Texas: One hour; $5

When Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan was seven, his father took him to a hardware store in downtown Alvin, Texas, to buy his first baseball mitt. It was a Nokona. Since 1934, the family-owned company has made gloves the same way: hand-lacing and stitching American rawhide, then beating it to hell with a mallet until the pocket is ready to snag a one-hop grounder.

16. Jelly Belly

Fairfield, California: 40 to 60 minutes; free for the self-guided tour, $47 for a guided tour that takes you on the factory floor

The thousands of jelly beans tumbling in hoppers may sound like bingo balls, only here every one drawn out is a guaranteed winner—except maybe the buttered popcorn. You can taste them at every stage of the tour, but save your appetite. The factory store at the end offers unlimited samples. If you paid for the guided tour, called Jelly Belly University, this is where you make up for your tuition.

17. Tabasco Pepper Sauce

Avery Island, Louisiana: One hour; $5.50

When I was growing up in the Cajun Triangle, any time a relative or college friend came to town, my family trotted out one of three old chestnuts: tours of swamps, plantations, or the Tabasco factory. I always hoped for the peppers—because I am afraid of alligators and ghost stories but mainly because, like all good Louisianans, I am obsessed with hot sauce.

Avery Island is only three miles wide, so most of the growing happens in South America. But this is where the rust-colored mash is packed into old bourbon barrels—about 50,000 are stacked in the warehouse—and left to ferment for three years. When ready, it is mixed with vinegar and aged for another month. Finally, the sauce gets bottled and shipped off to 180 countries.

The smells of the tour are as good as the sights—all that spice mixing with nearby forests of azalea trees. But the best part comes afterward, at the free tasting, when someone inevitably volunteers to try the inferno-level habanero sauce. That someone will always be me. —Katie Macdonald

18. Kenyon's Grist Mill

West Kingston, Rhode Island: July 23 to 24 and October 22 to 23; free

Two giant slabs of granite—each more than 150 years old and weighing more than 2,000 pounds apiece—pulverize whole grain and corn into meal and flour. That's it. A simple, centuries-old process that retains all the nutrients of the original grains and corn. Make sure to bring home some Johnny Cake mix.

Kohler, Wisconsin: Three hours; free

Lowell Kappers, the 80-year-old former Kohler employee who led our tour, worked at the Wisconsin factory, north of Milwaukee, for 44 years—31 of them as a cast-iron grinder. Three decades machining crankshafts and rail-track components. Three decades wearing a respirator helmet to keep pulverized iron dust out of his lungs. He retired in 1999 but still shows up two or three mornings a week to give tours. The factory has been offering them since 1926, a couple of decades before Kappers's dad started working there.

The tour is epic: four buildings, three hours, two and a half miles. You sidestep moving forklifts. You cross beneath conveyors shuttling tubs. You watch molten iron flow. In a cavernous brick loft called the pottery, liquid clay pumped from basement tanks filled plaster-of-paris molds before getting glazed and fired in 2,450-degree industrial kilns. In the enameling shop, an employee in a silver heat shield coated a cast-iron shower floor in enamel powder, then slid it into the orange maw of another kiln.

There are so many kilns. But Kappers didn't break a sweat, despite the heat and constant walking. The only time he really lingered was when we got to the aisle where he had worked, the spot where he jockeyed that heavy grinding wheel all those years.

"Noisiest place in the factory," he said. He wasn't complaining. He was proud. And then he was off again. —Phil Hanrahan

20. R.L. Winston Rod Company

Twin Bridges, Montana: 45 minutes; free

I learned to fly-fish on a fiberglass five-weight that my dad bought at Abercrombie & Fitch in the '60s. With his tongue sticking out in a pose of concentration, he showed me the basic ten and two. Wait for the glass to finish its slow backward flex, wait for the line to unfurl, then launch your forearm forward. Be patient, son.

This was the early '90s. By then, Dad's A&F beauty was a relic. Space-age graphite had made fiberglass obsolete. Trouble was, graphite is much stiffer than glass. Graphite rods cast like rocket launchers, and spooky trout require a delicate approach. Based in Twin Bridges, Montana, at the confluence of three legendary trout rivers, 87-year-old R.L. Winston Rod Company has figured out an alchemy that transforms graphite into velvet. The key ingredient is its staff of 40—roughly 10 percent of the population of Twin Bridges. They secure line guides with hand-wrapped thread. They balance rods by feel and sight alone. They hand-fit the ferrules connecting the rod sections to within one thirty-second of an inch. When customers send in broken rods for repair, Winston rebuilds the damaged segments from scratch.

"We've got a machine for attaching guides that's sitting upstairs collecting dust," said my tour guide, production manager Joe Begin. "We find that our employees are more efficient and make fewer mistakes."

This tireless, meticulous labor accounts for the cost of the rods: ranging from $500 to $3,000. That might sound pricey, especially when a perfectly serviceable rod will run you about $200. But near the end of the tour, I was frantically crunching numbers in my head, trying to figure out how many meals I could skip in the coming month. Fortunately, the gift shop sells only hats and sweatshirts. —Elliott Woods

Seattle, Washington: 30 to 40 minutes; free

One look at the sewing floor and it's easy to see how the garment and bag company that C.C. Filson started in 1897 to outfit Gold Rush prospectors has continued to thrive. Veteran employees, some who've been there 30 years, operate antique treadle machines customized to work with the brand's hallmark rugged twill.

*This article origionally appeared in the July/August 2016 issue of  Popular Mechanics. 

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25 Best Factory Tours in America for Families Who Love to Go Behind the Scenes

Find out what it takes to construct a jellybean, giant plane and everything in between.

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After a prolonged period of being stuck at home, some families are looking to travel again. And while the COVID-19 pandemic means that precautions still have to be taken, and not every destination is up and running at 100% capacity, there's still plenty of unique experiences out there that are once again open to the public.

The following factory tours and appropriate for kids, are well-reviewed by families and are currently open to visitors (or will be opening soon). But you might want to book ahead — some require timed tickets or reservations before you visit. But when you're done, you'll all know a little bit more about how the world around you is made.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory (Louisville, Kentucky)

Swing by to see how baseball bats are made — this company has been churning them out since 1884. Your family can walk through the factory production line and watch the wood chips fly! Everyone can try out bats from iconic players, like Babe Ruth and Derek Jeter. With plenty of photo ops (including your crew inside a giant baseball mitt) and a free mini bat souvenir for every guest, this tour will be a home run. Open daily; $ 18 for adults, $11 for ages 6 – 12, free for ages 5 and under

Jelly Belly Visitor Center & Factory (Fairfield, California)

From your perch above the production line, you’ll witness all the steps — slurry, steam bath, glossy application — it takes to create the gourmet jellybeans that have been a thing since the late 1800s. Video screens provide close-ups and fun facts (like it takes 1 – 2 weeks to make a jellybean). Feeling hungry? Stop at the café for a jellybean-shaped pizza. Open daily (but factory workers are typically there only on weekdays), $5 for adults, $2 for ages 2 and up, free for younger kids

The Kazoo Factory Tour Experience (Beaufort, South Carolina)

After learning the ins and outs of kazoo-making during a factory walk-through, everyone gets to create their own instrument to take home. A built-in souvenir is music to our ears! Open Monday to Friday, $9 for adults, $7 for ages 4 – 11, free for younger kids

MORE INFORMATION

PEZ Visitor Center (Orange, Connecticut)

The colorful facility dispenses equal parts nostalgia (it maintains well-organized vintage PEZ displays) and tech wizardry (you can see how the famous candy is packed). Be sure to snap your kid’s pic in front of the world’s largest PEZ dispenser, which looks like a person wearing a PEZ-themed baseball cap. Open daily; $5 for adults, $4 for ages 3 – 12, free for younger kids

Polaris Experience Center (Roseau, Minnesota)

School-age kids who love to build things will have their mind blown going behind-the-scenes at this maker of snowmobiles and ATVs. On the guided tour, they’ll see laser cutters, high-speed saws and other cool equipment making parts for the vehicles. They can also watch motors being installed and ATVs being tested. Whoa! Open Monday to Friday; children under age 6 prohibited; free

Hammond’s Candy Factory Tour (Denver, Colorado)

This centuries-old confectioner invites you to see how it makes its lollipops, candy canes and other treats. Looking through large viewing windows, your crew will be gobsmacked at how the colorful candies are shaped and packaged. Open Monday –Saturday; free

Kohler Design Center Factory Tour (Kohler, Wisconsin)

Got a teen whose interested in manufacturing? They’ll be fascinated by this detailed two-hour, 3 ½-mile foray behind the scenes of how the brand’s famous plumbing products are created. Open Monday – Friday, children under 14 not permitted, free

Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop (Jacksonville, Florida)

Willy Wonka vibes are strong at this mansion that takes guests from room to room of candy-making demos. You’ll get to design your own chocolate bar, choosing from more than 16 toppings. Check availability online; $6.45 per person

Henry Ford Rouge Factory Tour (Dearborn, Michigan)

One truck per minute rolls off the assembly line at this famous automotive factory — and your crew gets a birds-eye view of the goings-on from a 1/3-mile observation deck. There’s also a gallery of cool cars, like a 1965 Ford Mustang, to check out. Check dates online; $22 for adults, $16.50 for ages 5 – 11, free for younger kids

Turkey Hill Experience (Columbia, Pennsylvania)

While the dairy producer’s actual factory is closed to the public, this children’s museum-like attraction gives families the inside scoop on ice cream-making, plus unlimited free samples. Your kids can create their own virtual flavor, and then star in a commercial promoting it . Open daily; starts at $10.50 per person

World of Coca-Cola (Atlanta, Georgia)

Since you can’t tour an actual Coke bottling plant, this attraction is the next best thing. Its Bottle Works exhibit, showcasing real equipment, explains the packaging process. And you’ll get a chance to taste different kinds of sodas from around the world. Open daily; $19 for adults, $15 for ages 3 – 12, free for younger kids

Tillamook Creamery Tour (Tillamook, Oregon)

From a viewing gallery above the factory floor, you’ll see how milk becomes cheese. Then hit the dining hall for gooey faves, likes grilled cheese and mac ’n cheese. Your fam can even share a “flight” of ice cream. Open daily; tour is free, you can add tasting experiences for a charge

Warner Bros. Studio Tour (Los Angeles, California)

Your crew will be star-struck hanging out at a working movie studio. During the hour-long guided portion, you’ll see backlots, movie sets and maybe even spy someone famous. Then you’ll have two more hours to explore on your own — plenty of time to snap a pic of your family in front of the fountain from Friends . Open daily: $69 for adults, $59 for ages 5 – 10

The Great Utz Chip Trip Tour (Hanover, Pennsylvania)

Kids will discover how potatoes get turned into chips at this famous maker’s plant near the Pennsylvania-Maryland border. They can watch factory workers from an observation gallery; closed-circuit TV monitors provide close-ups. Everyone receives a free sample of chips at the end. Open Monday – Thursday, free

Ben & Jerry’s Factory Experience (Waterbury, Vermont)

With a tentative re-opening planned for the end of June 2022, this beloved attraction wets appetites with a short movie about how Ben & Jerry got their start. From there, it’s off to the mezzanine where you’ll watch how the ice cream is made. Samples of ice cream (sometimes a flavor that’s exclusive to the factory) is the proverbial cherry on top. On your way out, visit the “ice cream graveyard” of flavors that are no longer made. Check back for ticket info

The Crayola Experience (Easton, Pennsylvania)

There are many activities to take part in at The Crayola experience, including a live show where a "crayonologist" demonstrates how crayons are made. The 65,000-square-foot attraction also includes a toddler and a big-kid playground, interactive games and a studio for art projects, among manny other stations — they recommend blocking out three or four hours for a visit. Open daily. Admission is $25 if you buy tickets in advance; a timed ticket is required for all visitors ages 3 and up. There are also Crayola Experience locations in Chandler, Arizona; Mall of America, Minnesota; Orlando, Florida and Plano, Texas, but offerings may vary

Taza Chocolate Factory Tour (Somerville, Massachusetts)

Specializing in stone-ground chocolate, this candy maker explains the production process and hosts a sampling. On weekends, there’s a scavenger hunt-themed tour for kids under age 10 . Open Wednesday – Sunday; $8-$12 per person

The White House (Washington, DC)

Though not a factory in the traditional sense, White House tours are back, and you can meander around the famous Blue Room, Red Room, State dining room and — best of all — the Rose Garden. But you can’t wait until the last minute to book. Twenty-one to 90 days before you’d like to visit, you need to request one of the free tours by contacting your congress member’s office. Tours are only available on Fridays and Saturdays

Blue Bell Creamery Factory Tour (Brenham, Texas)

Look high above the factory floor to see ice cream being packaged in different types of containers. An employee is on-hand to answer all the kids’ questions about the process, so encourage them to ask away. Open Monday – Friday; free

American Whistle Company (Columbus, Ohio)

A kitschy stop on a Midwest road trip, this factory doles out loads of engaging info about a topic you probably never considered — how whistles are made. Everyone receives a whistle to take home. Open Monday Friday; $6 per person

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Factory Tours

Celebrating american imagination and industry, 52 tours in california.

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California Exotic Car Tour

Santa Barbara ▸ Carmel Valley ▸ Napa Valley

Join our incredible Californian exotic car tour to discover the very best of the spiritual home of modern motoring — the United States.

Experience driving a fleet of supercars and locally bred muscle cars on iconic roads from Santa Barbara to Napa Valley, including Highway 1. Then spend your nights in a series of the region’s most stunning properties, enjoying gastronomic dining along the way. Once in Napa, trade car keys for a glass of vino and relax among the vineyards as you sample a selection of special vintages.

Complete your getaway with our optional USA Grand Prix weekend in Austin — the most fan-friendly, entertainment-filled race in the F1 calendar. This weekend addition includes luxury hospitality for the race and the option to enjoy a private dinner with a current F1 driver.

Can’t make the drive? You can also experience the Austin Grand Prix as an incredible standalone long weekend when you join us for the ultimate USA Grand Prix package .

Explore our extraordinary, award-winning European Tours in 2024

Enquire about dates for 2024 and beyond

Experience your California driving tour

• Small Exclusive Groups
• Duration: from 5 days / 4 nights
• Driving: 3 days / 650 km
• Tour Start: Santa Barbara, California
• Tour End: Napa, California

Drive Exotic Cars and Supercars

Spend three days driving our fleet of exotic cars and muscle cars on a luxury driving tour through California, from Santa Barbara to Carmel Valley and on to Napa Valley.

Experience Authentic Luxury

Enjoy a curated series of boutique luxury properties as part of your Californian road trip, including a magnificent new resort in the Napa/Sonoma wine region.

Explore Napa and Sonoma Valley’s Finest

Swap car keys for celebrated vintages on a private day touring a selection of renowned vineyards throughout the Napa and Sonoma wine regions.

Embark on a Gastronomic Journey

Channel your inner foodie and sample the chef's signature dishes as you enjoy epicurean dining experiences each evening at celebrated and award-winning restaurants.

Enjoy Hospitality at the US Grand Prix

Start your experience with the F1 US Grand Prix in Austin, and enjoy Paddock Club or Champions Club hospitality at the most entertainment-filled weekend in the F1 calendar.

Dine with an F1 Star

While in Austin, choose to enjoy an intimate dinner with a current F1 driver, in between soaking up the city's incredible atmosphere and famous southern hospitality.

*Prices are yet to be confirmed. Enquire now to register your interest

Overview of your driving tour through California

Arrive in Austin

Arrive in Austin. Following chauffeur transfers from the airport, it's time to settle in, relax and enjoy the hotel’s extensive amenities, or explore this charismatic city. In the evening, we dine as a group at an renowned downtown restaurant.

American GP (Qualifying)

Your Austin F1 package kicks off with Grand Prix hospitality in either the Paddock Club or Champions Club. From your luxurious hospitality suite, experience qualifying along with warm Texan hospitality and VIP access.

American GP (Race Day)

Sunday is race day — time to enjoy premium views of the US Grand Prix from your luxury suite. Take a break from the on-track action with the renowned hospitality and entertainment of COTA. Past GPs have featured concerts from the likes Justin Timberlake and more.

Rest Day | Optional Evening with an F1 Driver

Enjoy a relaxed start to the day followed by time to explore, shop, dine, or take in the live music scene in Austin. Tonight's special dinner will be at an award-winning Austin institution, dining with a current F1 driver.

Transfer to California

Today marks the end of the Grand Prix weekend. Those continuing on with the drive will enjoy flights to California, followed by transfers to Santa Barbara. From here, you can enjoy a free afternoon to relax before dinner in the evening.

First Drive Day

Your first day of driving will see you enjoy the stunning backroads around Santa Barbara before cruising up Highway 1 to Carmel Valley. Enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic in the morning, followed by vine covered hillsides in the afternoon.

Second Drive Day

Your second drive day will see the group cross the Golden Gate Bridge up into Sonoma and Napa County. In the afternoon, we will arrive at a magnificent newly opened hotel in Healdsburg.

Napa Valley Loop

On the final day of the drive, the group will enjoy a morning loop around the lush Napa countryside before trading car keys for a great glass of white or red on a tour of the region's best wineries.

Conclusion and Departures

Today you can enjoy a relaxing morning and midday check-out. After this, the day is yours to further explore and enjoy Napa Valley before you depart on onward travel.

The exotic cars you'll experience on your California driving tour

If you’re hungry for a gorgeous, driver-friendly supercar that’s quick-as-lightning, the new release update to the incredible R8 delivers, and then some. Consider your wish granted.

Solely responsible for the revival of the modern Bentley brand, the Continental GT is the perfect grand tourer, sporting a unique twin-turbo W12 and a truly luxurious interior.

Powered by a monstrous 6.2L supercharged V8, the C8 is a supremely competent supercar. More importantly, the ‘Vette is a proud all-American effort, perfect for blasting through Route 66.

The successor to the adored 458 sees the eager-revving and naturally aspirated V8 retired in favour of a turbocharged powerplant. This supercar will propel you from 0 - 100 in just three seconds.

The Huracan is a fantastic combination of fast, loud, and sharp. With an ingenious 4WD system, the Performante offers impressive technical specs and performance to boot.

Be warned: while there are many fast cars out there, few have the performance capabilities that require drivers to up their game so profoundly. Are you ready for this beast?

Hailed by critics and fans alike as one of the finest 911s of the modern era, the 991 GT3 features the legendary 4.0L flat-six capable of singing far beyond 8,000 rpm for a truly exceptional driving experience.

The true pinnacle of automotive luxury, the Dawn adds an exquisitely engineered convertible roof to an already serene and blissful driving experience.

See what's in store on your lavish driving vacation

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Probably the most fun you could ever have; it's beyond first class, it's a class of its own.

The tours are fantastic – the cars, the people, the hotels and restaurants, and the comradery.

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