8 Fantastic Factory Tours You Can Only Take In Michigan

Michigan is a state that prides itself on production. From our long history with the auto industry to all sorts of delicious food items, there’s an endless array of products that call the Great Lakes State home. If you’re looking to learn more about some of our best factories and production sites, check out these eight factory tours in Michigan.

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Our list of factory tours in Michigan begins with a sweet one: Morley Candy Makers in Clinton Township. Admission is free, and you’ll spend approximately an hour checking out production equipment, sampling chocolate, and watching a video about the fascinating process. Check their website here to keep updated on further developments!

Address: 23770 Hall Road, Clinton Township, MI, 48036

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(Editor's Note: The Parade Company has currently suspended its Studio Tours for health and safety reasons due to COVID-19. They plan on resuming tours in the near future.)

Here in Michigan, watching America’s Thanksgiving Parade is a holiday tradition. Have you ever wondered what goes into producing the parade’s towering floats and other creations? Well, you’re in luck: book a tour with the Parade Company to go behind-the-scenes and learn about the process of preparing art for the annual celebration. From paper-mache heads to over-the-top costumes, there’s no telling what you’ll see. Click here for more information.

Address: 9500 Mt Elliott Street, Detroit, MI, 48211

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(Editor's Note: The Jiffy Mix Plant has currently suspended its tours due to COVID-19. They plan on resuming tours in the near future. In the meantime, you can enjoy a virtual tour on their website.)

Did you know that Jiffy Mix, one of the nation’s most well-known corn muffin mixes, is produced right here in Michigan? Venture to Chelsea for a free one-hour tour of the Jiffy Plant, which includes a guided walk-through, video presentations, and a product sample or two. Tours are available on weekdays, and you can learn more about setting up a visit by clicking here.

Address: 201 W North Street, Chelsea, MI, 48118

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Perhaps you’ve visited Tulip Time in Holland, but have you ever wondered how all those wooden shoes are produced? You’re in luck! Check out Veldheer’s for an up-close and personal look at a functional wooden shoe factory. Your self-guided tour will also allow you experience the making of Delftware, a traditional Dutch pottery style. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not have a pair of your very own wooden shoes handcrafted right on site? Click here for details.

Address: 12755 Quincy Street, Holland, MI, 49424

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Hoegh Caskets/Facebook

This might be the most unique thing to do in Michigan. Hoegh Caskets is fascinating factory that produces pet caskets for laying your furry friends to rest. Hoegh has been around since 1966, and visitors will have the chance to see the company’s process firsthand. Call ahead to arrange a tour. If you’d like to learn more, check out their website here.

Address: 311 Delta Avenue, Gladstone, MI, 49837

TripAdvisor/Jhutch19

Perhaps the most iconic of all the factory tours in Michigan, stop by the Henry Ford for a fascinating look at Michigan’s automotive production process in one of the best tours in Michigan. You’ll learn about the past, present, and future of some of Ford’s most iconic products, with a particular emphasis on the Ford F-150 truck. The tour is self-guided, and this firsthand look at our automobile production prowess will make you proud to be a Michigander. For more information about purchasing tickets, click here.

Address: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI, 48124

Yelp/Yates Cider Mill

Since 1893, this traditional cider mill has been providing delicious products to satisfied customers throughout the region. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into producing Yates’ delicious cider, you’ll have a chance to see the pressing process for yourself during this exciting tour. Tours are only available during September and October, but it’s never too early to start planning! Click here to find out more.

Address: 1950 E Avon Road, Rochester Hills, MI, 48307

Facebook/Jilbert Dairy

If you’re in the mood for fantastic ice cream and other dairy treats, look no further than Jilbert Dairy. When you visit, you’ll have the chance to check out production processes up-close and personal, so you can rest assured that you’re getting the freshest products imaginable. While it’s not a traditional guided tour, a trip to Jilbert’s is one of the most delightful places to visit in Michigan. To find out more about this wonderful farm, click here.

Address: 200 Meeske Avenue, Marquette, MI, 49855

Did we leave any other must-see factory tours in Michigan off our list? If you have a suggestion, please feel free to leave it in the comment section below. If you’ve checked out any of these awesome spots, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences!

And if taking these factory tours in Michigan ignited your wanderlust, be sure to check out these 14 unique day trips around the state!