4 of the Most Unique Ohio Factory Tours
Have you ever wondered how some of your favorite products are made? Find out by taking a factor tour! From ice cream production facilities to historic washboard manufacturers, there are plenty of Ohio factory tours to choose from on your next trip to Hocking Hills.
Find out more about fun activities near the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of information on the best things to do in the area, like taking Ohio factory tours.
Some of Our Favorite Ohio Factory Tours
1. Columbus Washboard Company
Want to see the inner workings of a historic brick factory? Visit the Columbus Washboard Company in Logan, Ohio! This unique facility is the only washboard manufacturer still operating in the United States, and they assemble all of their products by hand. The factory has vintage tools and machinery from the 1800s, many of which are still used to make their high-quality home cleaning supplies. Guided factory tours are offered Monday through Friday at 10, 12, and 2 p.m., and washboards are available for sale.
2. Velvet Ice Cream Co.
With more than 150,000 visitors each year, the Velvet Ice Cream factory is a must-see attraction in Utica, Ohio. It’s just a short drive from our inn and is a great place to stop on your way from Cleveland. This historic mill offers ice cream production tours, a tasting parlor, and even a family restaurant. During the free 30-minute tour, a Velvet Ice Cream guide will show you how the company began in 1914 and will describe the history of the Olde Mill. They’ll even take you to the viewing gallery where you can watch the fascinating ice cream-making process. Tours are offered on weekdays from 11 a.m to 3 p.m., May through October.
3. Anthony-Thomas Chocolates
If you have a sweet tooth, a tour of the Anthony-Thomas Chocolate Factory is for you! This candy-making plant in Columbus, Ohio, produces over 50,000 pounds of chocolates each day and offers one-hour tours for guests to enjoy. Watch as the candies are cooked, prepared, and packaged as you walk through the 152,000 square-foot factory. Tours are open to the public on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
4. American Whistle Corporation
The American Whistle Corporation in Columbus is the only manufacturer of metal whistles in the United States. These whistles are used by coaches, teachers, and police officers and play a vital role in the lives of everyday Americans. The American Whistle Corporation offers guided 45-minute tours of their small manufacturing plant and will entertain you with interesting information about whistles and machinery. As an added bonus, each guest leaves with a shiny new “American Classic” whistle! All ages are welcome and tours are offered on weekdays by appointment.
Come Home to the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls!
After taking one of the best Ohio factory tours, head back to our Hocking Hills resort and relax! Our comfortable geodomes, cottages, and cabins have everything you need to unwind. You can sink into a bubbling whirlpool hot tub, or enjoy a glass of wine by a flickering fireplace. Join us for a delicious gourmet breakfast the next morning and tell us all about your adventures. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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