Frederic Melton
The Tillamook Cheese Factory Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the history of the company, the process of cheesemaking, and the care of cows. The tour is free and includes cheese samples. It can be completed at your own pace, with most people spending between 1-3 hours at the factory. The tour begins with a grand entrance, featuring a massive photo of Flower, one of Tillamook's cows, and a sculpture of floating cheese loaves. Visitors can then explore interactive exhibits, learn about the different types of cows, and watch the cheesemaking process from behind a glass barrier. The tour concludes with a visit to the gift shop and dining hall, where visitors can purchase meals, ice cream, and souvenirs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Tillamook, Oregon Coast |
| Hours | 10 am – 6 pm |
| Cost | Free |
| Tour type | Self-guided |
| Duration | Variable (1 hour to all day) |
| Reservations | Not required |
| Samples | Cheese and ice cream |
| Dining options | Dining Hall, ice cream bar |
| Other amenities | Gift shop |
What You'll Learn
The tour is self-guided and free
The Tillamook Cheese Factory Tour is self-guided and free! This tour offers a true glimpse of how cheese is produced, from the dairy farm to your table. The Tillamook Creamery is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm and is located in Tillamook, Oregon. The self-guided tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about the cheesemaking process and the history of the famous baby loaf. You can explore the facility at your own pace and spend as little or as much time as you like.
During the tour, you will have the chance to discover why the Tillamook region has a deep connection to cheese and learn about the dairy cows and the opportune conditions for raising them in the Tillamook Valley. You will also get to test your knowledge of different cow breeds, such as Jersey, Guernsey, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Holstein, and Dutch Belted cows. The interactive exhibits and multimedia stations make the tour engaging and informative for both children and adults.
In addition to the self-guided tour, Tillamook Creamery offers a premium experience called the "Tour + Tasting," which is a guided tour that includes a specialty cheese tasting. This premium experience requires a reservation, but it is an excellent option for those who want a more structured and immersive experience.
The Tillamook Cheese Factory Tour is highly regarded by visitors, who often share fond memories of indulging in cheese samples and enjoying the interactive exhibits. The factory has undergone renovations to create a more open, airy, modern, and fun atmosphere for guests. The viewing gallery, where visitors can watch the cheese production process, is particularly fascinating.
Whether you're a cheese enthusiast or just looking for a unique and educational experience, the self-guided and free Tillamook Cheese Factory Tour is definitely worth considering. It's a great way to spend a few hours, and you can even pair it with a trip to the Oregon Coast or other nearby attractions. So, if you're in the area or planning a visit to Portland, Oregon, be sure to put the Tillamook Cheese Factory on your itinerary!
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You can learn about the history of the company
The Tillamook Cheese Factory tour is a great opportunity to learn about the history of the company. The tour is self-guided and free of charge, allowing visitors to explore the exhibits at their own pace. The tour begins with a grand entrance, where visitors are greeted by a massive photo of Flower, one of Tillamook's cows. To the left, there is a timeline that details the milestones in the company's history, starting from 1851 when it all began, up until 2018 when the new Tillamook Creamery opened.
The tour then proceeds to the Farm Exhibit, where visitors can learn about how cows are raised and how they produce milk. This exhibit is especially engaging for children, as they can learn about dairy farming and even try their hand at milking a cow. Tillamook is a Dairy Co-Op with 80 farmer-owners, and some of these farms have been providing milk to the company for four generations.
In the Viewing Gallery, visitors can watch the cheese-making process in action. Through glass panels, one can observe the cooking vats, heat shrink tunnel, vacuum sealer, patching station, and other equipment used to make award-winning cheeses. The gallery provides an insightful look at how milk is transformed into cheese within 24 hours of arriving at the factory.
After learning about the cheese-making process, visitors can sample a variety of Tillamook cheeses, including Colby Jack, Medium Cheddar, and Smoked Black Pepper White Cheddar. The tour also includes a visit to the gift shop, where one can purchase limited-edition cheeses, souvenirs, and other Oregon-made products.
The Tillamook Cheese Factory tour offers a wealth of information about the company's history and provides a behind-the-scenes look at the cheese-making process. It is an educational and tasty experience for visitors of all ages.
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There's a viewing gallery to watch cheese being made
The Tillamook Creamery in Tillamook, Oregon, offers a fascinating viewing gallery as part of its self-guided tour experience. This gallery provides visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the cheese-making process, allowing them to witness the transformation of high-quality milk into award-winning cheddar. The viewing gallery is an essential part of the tour, offering a unique perspective on the art of cheesemaking.
The Tillamook Creamery is committed to showcasing the entire cheese-making process with transparency. In the viewing gallery, visitors can observe cheesemakers at work, employing various tools and equipment to create the perfect cheese blocks. This includes the use of cooking vats, a heat shrink tunnel, a vacuum sealer, and a patching station. The gallery is designed with glass panels, providing a clear view of the action while maintaining a sanitary environment.
One of the most captivating aspects of the viewing gallery is witnessing the attention to detail and precision that goes into crafting each cheese block. The cheesemakers ensure that each block meets the exact weight and quality standards before sending them off to age for 3 to 5 years. This dedication to perfection is a testament to the creamery's commitment to producing the finest cheese.
The viewing gallery also offers informative displays that provide insights into each step of the cheesemaking process. These displays are easy to read and understand, making the experience educational and engaging for visitors of all ages. This combination of visual demonstration and informative signage ensures that everyone can fully grasp the art and science of cheesemaking.
In addition to the viewing gallery, the self-guided tour at the Tillamook Creamery includes other interactive and informative exhibits. Visitors can explore the history of the creamery, learn about dairy farming, and even enjoy samples of the delicious cheese produced on-site. The tour offers a well-rounded and immersive experience that delights all the senses.
The Tillamook Creamery's viewing gallery is a highlight of the self-guided tour, providing visitors with a unique and memorable experience. It offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on cheesemaking, showcasing the skill, precision, and dedication that goes into crafting each block of award-winning cheese. For anyone interested in learning about the art of cheesemaking, the viewing gallery is a must-see attraction.
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There's a farm exhibit where you can learn about the cows
The Tillamook Cheese Factory Tour in Tillamook, Oregon, is an excellent opportunity to learn about the cows that produce the milk that goes into making the famous cheese. The tour is self-guided and free, and visitors can learn about the history of the company and the process of cheesemaking.
The Farm Exhibit is an integral part of the tour, where visitors can learn about the different ways in which farmers care for their cows. The exhibit showcases the technology used to improve cow care, such as fitness trackers, extra soft bedding, rolling back massagers, and perfectly prepared feed. Visitors can also learn about the different breeds of cows, including Jersey, Guernsey, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Holstein, and Dutch Belted.
In the Farm Exhibit, there is an opportunity to try your hand at milking a cow using a milking device. This activity is especially enjoyable for children, who can also learn about how cows are raised and how they produce milk. The exhibit provides an insightful glimpse into the world of dairy farming and the dedication of farmers to ensuring the well-being of their cows.
The Tillamook Cheese Factory Tour offers a holistic experience, allowing visitors to witness the entire cheese-making process, from farm to table. It is an educational and entertaining journey that showcases the hard work and craftsmanship that goes into producing the beloved Tillamook cheese.
The tour is a delightful experience for cheese enthusiasts and anyone curious about the art of cheesemaking. It is a chance to appreciate the role of cows in this process and the care that goes into ensuring their health and comfort. So, if you're planning a trip to the Tillamook Cheese Factory, make sure to allocate ample time to explore the Farm Exhibit and gain a deeper understanding of the world of dairy farming.
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There's a dining hall and ice cream bar
The Tillamook Creamery is a food lover's paradise, especially for those with a penchant for cheese and ice cream. After taking a self-guided tour of the factory, visitors can indulge in a variety of cheesy delights at the Dining Hall. From Tempura Battered Cheese Curds to Classic Tomato Soup and Green Salad, there is something to satisfy every appetite. For those craving something more indulgent, the grilled cheese sandwiches and creamy ice cream are not to be missed. The ice cream counter offers a range of flavours, including limited releases exclusive to the Tillamook Cheese Factory. Visitors can enjoy their treats inside the dining hall or outdoors on the covered patio.
The Dining Hall also caters to various dietary restrictions. While it may be challenging for those with severe dairy allergies, gluten-free, nut-free, and other food allergy options are available. It is recommended that visitors with food allergies review the company's allergen statement before their visit.
In addition to the Dining Hall, the Tillamook Creamery also features an ice cream bar. This separate area offers a variety of ice cream treats, including cones, shakes, and artisan sundaes. Visitors can even find limited ice cream releases that are only available to those who tour the factory. Opposite the ice cream counter is a breakfast and coffee bar, providing additional options for visitors.
Whether you're looking for a savoury or sweet treat, the Tillamook Creamery's Dining Hall and ice cream bar have something for everyone. It's the perfect way to cap off your self-guided tour of the factory or to simply enjoy a delicious meal in a charming coastal town.
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Frequently asked questions
The Tillamook Cheese Factory tour is completely free.
The tour is self-guided, so it can take as little or as long as you like. However, it's recommended to plan on spending an hour or two to fully enjoy your time.
No, the tour is self-guided so you can start whenever you like. However, it is recommended to book a reservation for the premium experiences.
The Tillamook Cheese Factory is open seven days a week from 10 am to 6 pm.
During the tour, you will learn about the history of the company, the process of cheesemaking, and how the cows are cared for.
