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Sweet Stops: Top Food Factory Tours in Small-Town America
- Erika Willitzer
- Jul 26
- 3 min read
From creamy ice cream to spicy sauces, small-town food factories across the U.S. are opening their doors to curious visitors. These tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at how iconic treats are made—and they’re packed with flavor, fun, and local charm.
🍦 Ben & Jerry’s – Waterbury, Vermont
Take a 30-minute guided tour of the famous ice cream factory where quirky flavors are born. Don’t miss the Flavor Graveyard, where retired flavors rest in peace.
🍫 Hershey’s Chocolate World – Hershey, Pennsylvania
In a town that smells like chocolate, you’ll find a theme park, a chocolate spa, and a tour that shows how Hershey bars are made—from bean to bar.
🍨 Blue Bell Creameries – Brenham, Texas
Cool off with a scoop and a view of the ice cream-making process at this historic creamery that’s been churning since 1907.
Photo from: https://www.bluebell.com/
🍬 Hammond’s Candies – Denver, Colorado
This free 30-minute tour is perfect for families. Watch candy canes, lollipops, and taffy come to life—and leave with a sweet treat.
🌶️ Tabasco – Avery Island, Louisiana
Tour the birthplace of Tabasco sauce and explore the surrounding wildlife and botanical gardens. It’s a spicy adventure with a scenic twist.
🧀 Tillamook Creamery – Tillamook, Oregon
Cheese lovers rejoice! Sample cheeses, yogurt, and ice cream while learning how Tillamook’s dairy delights are made.
These tours are more than just tasty—they’re a celebration of local craftsmanship and community pride. Whether you're planning a road trip or looking for a unique family outing, these small-town food factories offer unforgettable experiences.
Small-Town Flavor Trail: Factory Tours + Local Gems
Each stop includes a factory tour and a local small business to support—perfect for travelers who want to taste, shop, and connect with the heart of small-town America.
🗺️ Small-Town Flavor Trail: Factory Tours + Local Gems
Each stop includes a factory tour and a local small business to support—perfect for travelers who want to taste, shop, and connect with the heart of small-town America.
🍦 Ben & Jerry’s – Waterbury, VT
Factory Tour: Ice cream lovers get a peek at the production line and the quirky Flavor Graveyard.
Local Gem: Cold Hollow Cider Mill – A charming spot for fresh cider, Vermont-made gifts, and homemade donuts.
🍫 Hershey’s Chocolate World – Hershey, PA
Factory Tour: Ride through the chocolate-making process and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Local Gem: Downtown Hershey Shops – Boutique shopping, coffee shops, and local eats just minutes away.
🍨 Blue Bell Creameries – Brenham, TX
Factory Tour: See how ice cream is made and enjoy a scoop at the parlor.
Local Gem: Downtown Brenham – Antique shops, cafes, and the Unity Theatre for a dose of small-town charm.
🍬 Hammond’s Candies – Denver, CO
Factory Tour: Watch candy canes and lollipops come to life
Local Gem: The Denver Central Market – A gourmet food hall featuring local vendors and artisan treats.
🌶️ Tabasco – Avery Island, LA
Factory Tour: Explore the Tabasco Museum and pepper greenhouse
.Local Gem: Jungle Gardens – A lush botanical garden with wildlife and scenic trails.
🧀 Tillamook Creamery – Tillamook, OR
Factory Tour: Sample cheeses and ice cream while watching production.
Local Gem: Blue Heron French Cheese Company – A farm store with gourmet foods, wine tasting, and animals.
