Imagine stepping into a world filled with delightful aromas, mesmerizing machinery, and tasty treats just waiting to be sampled—welcome to the best Pennsylvania factory tours! If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that combines education, entertainment, and mouth-watering freebies, you’ve come to the right place. At Family Fun Pennsylvania, we’re committed to uncovering the most exciting adventures your kids will rave about all summer long. Get ready to explore the behind-the-scenes magic where your family’s favorite snacks and sweets come to life. Pack your curiosity, bring your appetite, and let’s dive into Pennsylvania factory tours’ tastiest adventures!
1. Hershey’s Chocolate World – Hershey, PA
No list of Pennsylvania factory tours would be complete without Hershey’s Chocolate World. Though technically more of an interactive experience than a traditional factory tour, visitors can learn about the chocolate-making process through a fun, immersive ride. The best part? Every visitor receives a free piece of delicious Hershey’s chocolate at the end!
Moreover, Pennsylvania factory tours provide unique opportunities to learn about the manufacturing process while enjoying delicious treats that kids love!
Kids will adore creating their own candy bar at an additional attraction (for a small fee), and the entire family can indulge in fresh-baked treats at the on-site bakery & delicious, creamy ice cream at the dairy bar. With plenty of sweet photo opportunities and a welcoming atmosphere, Hershey’s Chocolate World remains a family favorite year-round.
Update: The Hershey’s Chocolate Tour remains a free, immersive ride available daily without needing tickets. On your way out, you’ll be able to choose a fun-sized candy treat as your free sample.
2. Herr’s Snack Factory – Nottingham, PA
As you explore the Herr’s Snack Factory, you’ll find that Pennsylvania factory tours emphasize the fun and educational aspects of snack production. If you’re a snacker, you’ll quick see why Pennsylvania factory tours are among the best family-friendly activities in the state.
If chips and snacks are a favorite in your household, the Herr’s Snack Factory tour is a must. This free guided tour provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how potato chips, pretzels, popcorn, and other snacks are made. Visitors walk through real factory operations, observing everything from slicing potatoes to packaging crispy chips.
The highlight for most kids (and adults, too!) comes at the end, where you’ll be treated to freshly made snacks straight from the factory line. Be sure to grab a bag or two of your family’s favorite flavor from the on-site gift shop!
Herr’s Visitor Center Gift Shop is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Herr’s Factory Tours are available Monday to Wednesday from 9:30 am and 3:30 pm. with advance ticket purchases required, which you can schedule online. Prices are as follows: Adult (18 & over): $8.00 • Youth (4 yrs. – 17 yrs.): $4.00 • Child (3 & under): FREE
3. Martin’s Potato Chips – Thomasville, PA
Company Tours are currently canceled at Martin’s Potato Chips in Thomasville, but you can still get a behind-the-scenes look for a virtual field trip.
Hey, but when and if they do open again, Martin’s Potato Chips typically offers a charming and more intimate tour. This free tour takes families right into the heart of the chip-making process, offering a detailed look at how raw potatoes transform into deliciously crispy snacks.
Visitors rave about the warm potato chips offered right off the production line—a true treat you simply can’t find anywhere else! The tour is quick, informative, and perfect for younger children with shorter attention spans.
Update: Tours at Martin’s Potato Chips are currently closed, but were previously available on Tuesdays. Calling ahead is always recommended.
4. Utz Potato Chip Factory – Hanover, PA
Hanover, PA, is known as the “Snack Food Capital of the World,” and the Utz Potato Chip Factory is a big part of that legacy. The free, self-guided tour lets families explore at their own pace while watching the manufacturing process through large observation windows.
Kids especially enjoy the overhead views of conveyor belts filled with freshly cooked chips making their way to packaging. And, of course, a free snack-size bag of Utz chips awaits each visitor at the conclusion of the tour. Don’t miss their factory outlet store for special deals and rare flavors.
Update: Utz tours run Monday through Thursday, with no reservation required, but calling ahead is advised.
5. Turkey Hill Experience – Columbia, PA
While not a traditional factory tour, the Turkey Hill Experience provides a hands-on, interactive journey into how ice cream and iced tea are made. The attraction features fun exhibits where kids can milk a mechanical cow, create their own ice cream flavor virtually, and design personalized packaging.
For a small additional fee, families can upgrade to the “Taste Lab,” where you’ll get the chance to create and sample your very own ice cream flavor with mix-ins and sauces. The main experience also includes plenty of free ice cream and iced tea samples, so come hungry!
Update: Turkey Hill offers unlimited free samples with optional additional experiences requiring reservations.
6. Snyder’s of Hanover Pretzel Bakery – Hanover, PA
Pretzel lovers won’t want to miss Snyder’s of Hanover. This popular snack brand offers a free guided factory tour, giving visitors an insider look at how their famous pretzels are made, from dough mixing to baking and seasoning.
The aroma of fresh-baked pretzels fills the air, making mouths water instantly. At the end of the tour, everyone receives free samples of warm, freshly-baked pretzels—a delicious end to a fascinating tour. The onsite factory store provides plenty of opportunities to stock up on favorite flavors at discounted prices. When planning, remember that Pennsylvania factory tours fill up quickly, so reserve spots ahead of time!
Update: Snyder’s continues to offer free tours, concluding with fresh pretzel samples.
7. Sturgis Pretzel Bakery – Lititz, PA
Experience the oldest commercial pretzel bakery in America at Sturgis Pretzel Bakery in Lititz! This Pennsylvania factory tour isn’t quite the same as the others because it takes you back in time. In this historic, hands-on experience, you’ll learn about the traditional art of pretzel-making. Families can twist their own pretzel dough and learn fascinating facts about this iconic snack’s history.
At the end of your tour, you’ll receive a delicious sample of freshly baked pretzels, ensuring a tasty memory to take home. Don’t forget to check out their charming bakery store filled with tasty treats and souvenirs!
Tips for Your Factory Tour Adventure
- Reserve Ahead: Tours can fill up quickly, especially during weekends or summer months. Book your spots online or call ahead to confirm tour times.
- Check Age Limits: Some factories have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. Always double-check ahead of your visit.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Factory tours often involve walking and standing. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are usually required.
- Bring a Cooler: You’ll probably want to stock up on your favorite goodies at the factory outlets. Bring a small cooler to keep your snacks fresh on the drive home.
Enjoy discovering the magic behind these Pennsylvania-made products and, of course, savoring those irresistible free samples! Whether your family loves sweets, salty snacks, or creamy ice cream, Pennsylvania factory tours offer something delightful for everyone.
Share your family’s favorite snacks from these Pennsylvania factory tours, and enjoy your culinary journey through the state!
