Ben & Jerry's Factory Travel Guide

Vermont’s Green Mountains are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, but tucked away in the charming town of Waterbury lies a different kind of institution, one that promises a euphoric experience for the taste buds and a peek into a uniquely spirited corporate culture. Our Ben & Jerry's Factory Vermont travel guide is your definitive resource for planning a visit to this iconic ice cream mecca, ensuring you navigate the tours, tastings, and quirky charm with confidence.

Why Visit Ben & Jerry's Factory

For many, a trip to Vermont isn't complete without a pilgrimage to the Ben & Jerry's Factory. It's more than just a place where ice cream is made; it's a vibrant destination that blends the state's rich dairy heritage with a playful, modern corporate branding that's become globally recognized. We recommend a visit not just for the delicious ice cream, but for the unique insight into a company that has championed social responsibility alongside its commitment to chunky, swirly flavors. You'll discover the origin story of Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, two childhood friends who turned a $5 correspondence course into a worldwide phenomenon, all while maintaining a distinctive ethos.

The factory in Waterbury is the only Ben & Jerry's manufacturing site open to the public, producing hundreds of thousands of pints daily. It offers a fascinating, albeit brief, glimpse into the ice cream-making process, from the "moo-vie" detailing the company's history and values to a walk along the glassed-in mezzanine overlooking the production floor. Even if you don't catch the machines in full swing (production often pauses on weekends and holidays), the engaging tour guides bring the story to life. Beyond the factory floor, the grounds offer a delightful experience, including the famous Flavor Graveyard, a whimsical tribute to retired ice cream flavors. It’s a place where fun, flavor, and a touch of social consciousness converge, making it a truly memorable stop on any Vermont itinerary. For more ideas on exploring the state, check out our guide to the Best places in Vermont.

Who It's Best For

The Ben & Jerry's Factory caters to a broad audience, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. It’s particularly well-suited for:

• **Families with Kids:** The short, engaging tour, the playground on-site, and, of course, the ice cream samples make it a hit with children of all ages. The whimsical atmosphere and the Flavor Graveyard's humorous epitaphs are sure to entertain.
• **Ice Cream Enthusiasts:** If you're passionate about ice cream, this is a must-visit. You'll learn about the ingredients, the process, and get to sample a unique flavor. The Scoop Shop often features flavors not found in grocery stores.
• **Fans of Unique Corporate Culture:** Ben & Jerry's is known for its progressive values and quirky branding. The tour delves into this aspect, offering a look at how their mission statement is integrated into their business.
• **Road Trippers:** Located conveniently off Route 100, it's an excellent, relatively quick stop for those on a USA Road Trip Planner through Vermont.

The factory is also ADA accessible, with accessible parking and an elevator for the tour, ensuring that visitors with mobility needs can enjoy the experience.

Getting There & Parking

Understanding how to get to Ben & Jerry's Factory and where to park is crucial for a smooth visit. The factory is located at 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road in Waterbury, Vermont. It's easily accessible and well-signposted from major routes.

How to Get There

• **By Car:** This is by far the most common way to reach the factory.
  • **From Burlington:** The factory is about a 20-30 minute drive southeast of downtown Burlington, typically via I-89 South to Exit 10, then a mile north on Route 100.
  • **From Stowe:** It's a quick 10-mile drive south on Route 100. Many visitors combine a trip to Stowe with a factory tour.
  • **From I-89:** Take Exit 10 in Waterbury, then head north on Route 100. The factory will be on your left.
• **Public Transportation/Ride-Share:** While Green Mountain Transit operates a commuter line to Waterbury, direct bus service from Burlington to the factory is not available. Ride-share services are an option from Burlington but can add up quickly for a round trip.

Ben & Jerry's Factory Parking

Parking at the Ben & Jerry's Factory is free and generally plentiful. There are multiple parking areas:

• **Main Parking Lot:** This is the primary parking area.
• **Upper Parking Lot:** Located at the top of the entrance driveway hill, this lot offers accessible parking spaces and is closer to the Flavor Graveyard and playground.
• **RV and Coach Parking:** Extremely limited spaces are available for RVs and coaches, also located in the upper parking lots.

During peak seasons, especially foliage season (late September to mid-October), the parking lots can fill up quickly, sometimes by 10:30 AM. Arriving early is always a good strategy. If you park in the lower lot, be aware there are steps leading up to the main entrance, though accessible routes are also available.

Top Things to Do

A visit to the Ben & Jerry's Factory is packed with delightful experiences, and there are also plenty of other things to do in Waterbury and the surrounding area. Our team recommends planning at least 90 minutes to two hours for the factory itself to fully enjoy all it offers.

Things to Do at Ben & Jerry's Factory

1. **Take the Factory Experience Tour:** This 30-minute guided tour is the highlight of any visit. It begins with a "moo-vie" detailing the company's history and social mission, followed by a walk to a glassed-in mezzanine overlooking the production floor. You'll learn how the ice cream is made and get an explanation of the manufacturing process. The tour concludes in the Flavor Room with a delicious sample of the day's flavor, sometimes even a test batch! Remember, production schedules vary, so active manufacturing is not guaranteed, especially on weekends and holidays. Tour tickets for adults are $6, seniors (65+) are $5, and children (2-12) are $1, plus a service fee.
2. **Explore the Flavor Graveyard:** This quirky, free outdoor attraction is a must-see. Located on a hillside above the factory, it features granite headstones with witty epitaphs for "dearly de-pinted" flavors that have been discontinued. It's a humorous and nostalgic stroll, offering great photo opportunities and lovely mountain views. Note that the Flavor Graveyard is closed during the winter season due to hazardous terrain.
3. **Indulge at the Scoop Shop:** Even if you take the tour, the sample at the end is small. Head to the full-service Scoop Shop for a generous serving of your favorite flavor, or try one of the rotating flavors exclusive to the factory location. They also offer sundaes, milkshakes, and ice cream cakes.
4. **Browse the Gift Shop:** The retail shop offers a wide array of Ben & Jerry's merchandise, from tie-dye apparel and cow-print items to Vermont-made chocolates. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts.
5. **Enjoy the Grounds and Playground:** The factory grounds provide picnic areas and a playground, making it a family-friendly spot to relax and enjoy your ice cream, especially during warmer months.

Things to Do in Waterbury

Waterbury and its immediate surroundings offer a wealth of attractions that complement a Ben & Jerry's visit, making it easy to fill a day or two. When considering things to do in Waterbury, we suggest:

• **Cold Hollow Cider Mill:** Just a short drive from Ben & Jerry's, this popular spot offers fresh cider, cider donuts, and a tasting room for hard cider. It's a quintessential Vermont experience.
• **Cabot Farmer's Store:** Right next door to Cold Hollow Cider Mill, you can sample a wide variety of Cabot cheeses and other local Vermont products.
• **Vermont Artisan Coffee & Tea Co.:** For coffee lovers, this is a great stop to enjoy a freshly brewed cup and learn about their roasting process.
• **Smugglers' Notch Distillery:** Sample locally-made spirits and learn about the distillation process. It's often paired with visits to Cabot and Lake Champlain Chocolates.
• **Lake Champlain Chocolates:** Indulge your sweet tooth with gourmet chocolates from this renowned Vermont chocolatier, which has a location in Waterbury.
• **Waterbury Center State Park:** For those seeking outdoor recreation, this park offers hiking, mountain biking, and water activities on Waterbury Reservoir, including kayak and canoe rentals.
• **Explore Historic Downtown Waterbury:** Stroll along Main Street, browse local shops like Bridgeside Books and Jeremy Ayers Pottery, and enjoy the charming village atmosphere.
• **Attend a Local Event:** Waterbury hosts several events throughout the year. In 2026, you might catch the Waterbury Flea Market (Saturdays & Sundays, May-October), the Waterbury Arts Fest (July 10-11, 2026), or Concerts in the Park (Thursdays, June 11-August 13, 2026).
• **Visit a Covered Bridge:** Vermont is famous for its picturesque covered bridges. Several are within a scenic drive of Waterbury, such as the Warren Covered Bridge or Waitsfield Covered Bridge.

For a broader exploration of Vermont's agricultural heritage, consider a visit to the Billings Farm & Museum, or delve into presidential history at the Calvin Coolidge Historic Site. If you're interested in natural history and the cosmos, the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium offers a captivating experience. These destinations provide a rich tapestry of Vermont's diverse offerings. You can find more comprehensive travel planning resources on Vermont Vacation.

Best Time to Visit

Choosing the best time to visit the Ben & Jerry's Factory can significantly impact your experience, especially regarding crowds and the chance to see active ice cream production.

• **Weekday Mornings (May through October):** Our team highly recommends visiting on a weekday morning, ideally before 11:00 AM. This is when you are most likely to see the factory's production lines in action, as manufacturing typically runs Monday through Friday. Arriving early also helps you beat the tour bus crowds that often arrive from nearby Stowe and Burlington.
• **Summer (June through August):** While summer offers extended hours (10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, with last tour at 7:00 PM), it is also peak tourist season, meaning larger crowds and a higher chance of tours selling out. Reservations are crucial during this time. The Flavor Graveyard and outdoor playground are fully accessible.
• **Foliage Season (Late September to Mid-October):** Vermont's fall foliage is breathtaking, making this a popular time for scenic drives. However, this also brings the heaviest crowds to the Ben & Jerry's Factory. Expect significant waits and parking lots that fill up quickly. If you plan to visit during this period, arrive as early as possible.
• **Off-Season (November through April):** Winter visits are generally the quietest, offering a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. However, factory production may be reduced, and the outdoor Flavor Graveyard is closed due to hazardous conditions. Standard off-season hours are typically 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, with the last tour at 5:00 PM.

Regardless of when you visit, remember that tickets for the factory tour are released 14 days in advance and often sell out quickly. Pre-purchasing your tickets online is strongly encouraged.

Where to Stay Nearby

Waterbury and the surrounding towns offer a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Our team has identified several excellent choices for your stay:

• **Best Western Plus Waterbury - Stowe:** This inviting hotel provides newly remodeled rooms and suites, offering clean and affordable accommodations. It's a great base for exploring the Green Mountains.
• **Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Waterbury Stowe:** A reliable option known for its comfortable rooms and convenient location, often praised for its proximity to Ben & Jerry's.
• **Old Stagecoach Inn:** For those seeking historic charm, this bed & breakfast in downtown Waterbury offers a unique experience with free breakfast and parking.
• **Moose Meadow Lodge & Treehouse:** If you're looking for a truly unique and luxurious stay, this highly-rated lodge in Waterbury offers distinctive accommodations, including a treehouse.
• **Grunberg Haus Bed & Breakfast:** An Austrian-style B&B located between Stowe and Sugarbush Resorts, offering a cozy and picturesque retreat.
• **Stowe Cabins in the Woods:** For a more rustic yet comfortable experience, these cabins offer a peaceful setting with plenty of green space. Some are pet-friendly.
• **Sun and Ski Inn & Suites:** This option in Waterbury allows two pets of any size in designated rooms for no additional fee, making it a good choice for travelers with furry friends.

Many hotels in the area, such as the Best Western Plus Waterbury - Stowe and the Fairfield Inn & Suites, are praised for their amenities and proximity to attractions like the Ben & Jerry's Factory.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you make the most of your visit to the Ben & Jerry's Factory and the surrounding area, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary. This plan balances the iconic ice cream experience with other local attractions and natural beauty.

Day 1: Ice Cream & Waterbury Delights

• **Morning (9:30 AM - 12:00 PM): Ben & Jerry's Factory Vermont Tour.** Arrive early to secure your pre-booked tickets for the factory tour. Enjoy the "moo-vie," observe the production floor (if active), and savor your ice cream sample. Afterwards, spend time exploring the whimsical Flavor Graveyard and browsing the Gift Shop for souvenirs.
• **Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Local Flavors.** Head to the Cold Hollow Cider Mill for lunch, enjoying their cafe offerings and famous cider donuts. Alternatively, grab a bite in historic downtown Waterbury.
• **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Vermont's Culinary Trio.** Continue your culinary exploration with a visit to the Cabot Farmer's Store, located next to Cold Hollow, for cheese tastings. Then, stop by Lake Champlain Chocolates for some sweet treats, and if time allows, the Smugglers' Notch Distillery for a tasting of local spirits.
• **Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Outdoor Relaxation.** Take a leisurely stroll through Waterbury Center State Park. Enjoy the scenic views of the Waterbury Reservoir or consider a short, easy hike.
• **Evening: Dinner & Local Brews.** Waterbury boasts a great craft beer scene. Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants, many of which feature Vermont-sourced ingredients, and sample some local brews.

Day 2: Scenic Drives & Vermont Heritage

• **Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Mountain Views & Covered Bridges.** Embark on a scenic drive along Route 100 towards Stowe. Consider taking the Stowe Gondola SkyRide for breathtaking views of the Green Mountains and surrounding valleys, especially stunning during fall foliage. On your drive, seek out one of Vermont's charming covered bridges, such as those near Warren or Waitsfield.
• **Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Stowe Village.** Enjoy lunch in the picturesque village of Stowe, with its classic white-steepled church and array of dining options.
• **Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): History or Nature.**
  • **Option A (History):** Drive to the Billings Farm & Museum in Woodstock, a working dairy farm and museum offering a glimpse into Vermont's rural past.
  • **Option B (Nature):** Explore a section of the Green Mountain National Forest for hiking or simply enjoying the serene natural environment.
• **Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Return & Relax.** Head back to Waterbury, perhaps stopping at a local artisan shop you spotted earlier.
• **Evening: Farewell Dinner.** Enjoy a final Vermont dinner, reflecting on your sweet and scenic adventure.

FAQ: Ben & Jerry's Factory Vermont

What are some essential Ben & Jerry's Factory tips for visitors?

Our top tips for visiting the Ben & Jerry's Factory include booking your tour tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, as they often sell out. Arrive early, particularly on weekdays, if you hope to see active ice cream production. Don't skip the Flavor Graveyard for its unique charm and photo opportunities. While the tour includes a small sample, plan to visit the Scoop Shop for a full serving of your favorite flavor. Finally, combine your visit with other local attractions in Waterbury, like Cold Hollow Cider Mill or Cabot Farmer's Store, to make a full day of it.

Is there ample Ben & Jerry's Factory parking available?

Yes, Ben & Jerry's Factory parking is free and generally plentiful. There are both a main parking lot and an upper parking lot. Accessible parking spaces are located in the upper lot. Limited RV and coach parking is also available. However, during peak tourist seasons, especially fall foliage, the lots can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advisable.

What is the best time to visit Ben & Jerry's Factory?

The best time to visit the Ben & Jerry's Factory is on a weekday morning, from May through October, ideally before 11:00 AM. This timing increases your chances of seeing active ice cream production and helps you avoid the largest crowds. While fall foliage season is beautiful, it also brings the heaviest visitor traffic. Winter offers fewer crowds but production might be reduced, and the Flavor Graveyard is closed.

What are the Ben & Jerry's Factory hours and fees?

For 2026, the Ben & Jerry's Factory operates with seasonal hours. During summer (starting June 26th), hours are 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, with the last tour departing at 7:00 PM. Off-season hours are typically 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, with the last tour at 5:00 PM. The factory is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Tour fees are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors (65+), and $1 for children (2-12), plus a service fee. Infants do not require a ticket.

Can you suggest a Ben & Jerry's Factory itinerary?

A good Ben & Jerry's Factory itinerary would involve arriving in the morning for a pre-booked factory tour (30 minutes). After the tour, spend time exploring the Flavor Graveyard and enjoying a scoop from the on-site Scoop Shop. Allocate about 90 minutes to two hours for the factory experience. Afterwards, explore other Waterbury attractions like Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Cabot Farmer's Store, and Lake Champlain Chocolates, all conveniently located nearby. Consider a visit to Waterbury Center State Park for some outdoor time.

Where can I find a comprehensive Ben & Jerry's Factory travel guide?

You're currently reading a comprehensive Ben & Jerry's Factory travel guide from the Roam States editorial team! We aim to provide all the essential information for planning your visit, including details on tours, hours, fees, parking, and nearby attractions. Our guide focuses on giving you specific, confident recommendations to ensure a memorable trip to this iconic Vermont destination.

Our team’s verdict: The Ben & Jerry's Factory in Waterbury, Vermont, is more than just a tourist stop; it's a celebration of flavor, fun, and a unique corporate philosophy. From the engaging factory tour and the whimsical Flavor Graveyard to the irresistible Scoop Shop, it offers a delightful experience for all ages. We confidently recommend it as a cornerstone of any Vermont adventure, especially when paired with the charming local attractions of Waterbury. Plan ahead, book your tickets, and prepare for a truly euphoric journey.

Last updated: 2026-07-12 by the Roam States team.