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Inside the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour in Vermont

Ben & Jerry's Factory - Inside the Tour Experience

One of my very first road trips was to Waterbury, VT with two of my friends. Our only goal for the trip was to visit the Ben & Jerry’s Factory.

Why did we plan a trip to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory? Well, my friend Kristiann is trying to get to all 50 states before she turned 25. Way more ambitious than my list of 25 Things to do Before Turning 25.

Regardless, for being FREE, the tour (and road trip, in general) was kinda fun. We were lucky that the day we chose to visit Ben & Jerry’s in Vermont coincided with the Ben & Jerry’s Winter Festival. That meant the factory tour was free.

Getting to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Vermont

Not a lot of people choose to visit the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in winter. But anyone who loves ice cream the way I do, knows that a bit of winter weather isn’t enough to stop me from eating my most favorite dessert!

Highlights from Inside the Ben and Jerry’s Factory Tour

On the factory tour, you get a sneak peak into their actual factory (photography not permitted because of corporate espionage—they honestly seemed pretty serious about this). Of course, most of the tour is geared for small children (children under 12 can tour for free), but it was still interesting to learn about the ice cream making process.

They make two flavors a day in the Vermont factory. Can you guess Ben & Jerry’s #1 selling flavor?

We were lucky to get a beautiful day for the Winter Festival. Because it was an outdoor festival, there were all sorts of fun things going on. Some of the highlights included maple syrup snow cones (how could you visit Vermont without any maple syrup!), free ice cream samples, and other winter activities.

1. The Corporate History of Ben & Jerry’s

Ben & Jerry’s, the beloved ice cream brand known for its quirky flavors and commitment to social responsibility, has its roots deeply embedded in the picturesque state of Vermont. The story of the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Vermont is a tale of two childhood friends, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, who turned a simple ice cream parlor dream into a global phenomenon.

In 1978, armed with a $5 correspondence course in ice cream making and a passion for crafting the most delicious, unique flavors, Ben and Jerry opened their first scoop shop in Burlington, Vermont. Their mission was clear from the beginning: to create euphoric ice cream experiences while giving back to the community.

This dual commitment to quality and social responsibility became the cornerstone of the Ben & Jerry’s brand.

As their popularity soared, they realized the need for a larger production facility. In 1985, the iconic Ben & Jerry’s Factory was established in Waterbury, Vermont. The factory quickly became a pilgrimage site for ice cream aficionados like myself, offering guided tours that allowed visitors to witness the magic of ice cream being made and to taste freshly churned scoops.

Over the years, Ben & Jerry’s has continued to expand its product offerings, environmental sustainability initiatives, and commitment to social justice causes. Today, the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Vermont remains a symbol of their dedication to crafting ice cream that not only delights the taste buds but also nourishes the soul.

It’s the story of a small-town ice cream shop that grew into a global icon while staying true to its Vermont roots.

2. Maple Syrup Snow Cones during Winter Fest

Maple Syrup Sno Cone at Ben & Jerry's

Maple Syrup Snow Cone at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Thankfully the “snow” didn’t come from the ground. If you haven’t poured maple syrup over ice, I’d suggest it. Also, you could add a pickle. Again—these were free samples during the Ben & Jerry’s Winter Fest. It’s a great time to plan a visit to the factory because you get a lot less crowds and still the same experience (and maybe even a better one than during the crowded summertime ice cream season).

3. Free Ice Cream Samples at Ben & Jerry’s

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory

I forgot what we got to try as far as new Ben & Jerry’s flavors, but it was delicious. There were also lots of free Cabot cheeses (their factory is down the street) and free flat-bread pizza slices. Hard to argue with any of that for a simple day trip to an ice cream factory!

Other Things To Do Near the Ben & Jerry’s Vermont Tour

Snowshoe Tours

Okay, so the snowshoe tour wasn’t free, but it’s actually a lot of fun. If only for the novelty. There wasn’t even much snow on the ground when we visited in March, but we learned a little bit about Vermont’s countryside: bears, ponds, and human-attacking grouse.

Vermont State House

Located in Vermont’s capital city of Montpelier, VT, the State House is a really beautiful majestic building. Completed in 1859, it is an architectural masterpiece characterized by its stunning Greek Revival design and gleaming gold leaf dome.

This historic building serves as the seat of Vermont’s government, where lawmakers convene to shape the state’s policies. Its stately halls and chambers are adorned with art, showcasing Vermont’s rich history and culture.

Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and boasting a commanding presence on Capitol Hill, the Vermont State House is a cherished symbol of civic engagement and a must-visit destination for those seeking to appreciate the state’s political heritage—and an easy stop-over on the way to or from the Ben & Jerry’s factory tour.

Also, don’t forget Ben & Jerry’s Free Cone Day is always in March. (details)