A Sweet Escape: Visiting the Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory in Vermont
During our week-long stay at Smugglers' Notch Resort, we decided to venture out and explore some of the local attractions. One of the highlights of our trip was the visit to the Ben & Jerry's ice cream factory in Waterbury, Vermont, which was about an hour's drive from the resort. If you're ever in the area, this is an experience you won't want to miss.
We booked our tour of the factory a week in advance, and it's a good thing we did. Tours are limited, and they tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. If you're planning a visit, I highly recommend booking your tour through their website to secure a spot. The booking process was straightforward, and it allowed us to choose a time that worked best for our schedule.
Our tour began with a quick video presentation that delved into the history of Ben & Jerry's. The video was engaging and provided a fascinating look into how two childhood friends, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, turned a humble ice cream parlor into a globally recognized brand. Their story is a testament to creativity, social responsibility, and a little bit of luck. The kids in our group seemed particularly captivated by the story, and it was clear that Ben & Jerry's knows how to make learning fun.
After the video, we were led to the heart of the factory where the magic happens—the production floor. This part of the tour was particularly exciting as we got to see the process of how Ben & Jerry's ice cream is made, from the mixing of ingredients to the packaging of the final product. The scale of the operation was impressive, and it was fascinating to witness the precision and efficiency of the entire process.
Unfortunately, for those of us who love to capture every moment, photography and videography were strictly prohibited in this area. However, this only added to the mystique and exclusivity of the experience. Seeing how our favorite ice creams are created up close, from vats of creamy base to the intricate packaging machinery, was something I'll remember for a long time.
Flavor Lab - where the magic happens!
One of the highlights of the tour was the visit to the Flavor Lab. This is where the culinary masterminds at Ben & Jerry's experiment with new and exciting flavors. We were fortunate enough to sample one of their latest creations—mango cream ice cream. It was a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, and it quickly became a favorite!
The Flavor Lab is a testament to the innovation and creativity that Ben & Jerry's is known for. It's fascinating to think that some of the brand's most iconic flavors were born in this very room. For anyone who loves ice cream, this part of the tour is a real treat.
After the tour, we couldn't resist the temptation to indulge in more ice cream. The on-site scoop shop offers a wide variety of flavors, including some that are exclusive to the factory. Whether you're a fan of classic flavors like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough or more adventurous options like Phish Food, there's something for everyone.
We each chose a different flavor to try, and the quality and freshness of the ice cream were unmatched. It was the perfect way to cap off an already sweet experience.
A beautiful Vermont winter view
Once we had our fill of ice cream, we took some time to explore the factory grounds. Outside the factory, there's a small playground where kids can burn off some energy. It was a welcome sight for parents, and our son had a great time playing with other children.
Flavor Graveyard
But the most unique feature of the factory grounds is the "Flavor Graveyard." Located just across from the playground, this quirky area is where Ben & Jerry's pays homage to its retired flavors. Each "gravestone" features the name of a former flavor, along with a witty epitaph. It's a fun and lighthearted way to honor the brand's past while celebrating its ongoing creativity.
Bottom Line
Our visit to the Ben & Jerry's ice cream factory was a delightful experience that perfectly complemented our stay at Smugglers' Notch Resort. The tour is well-organized, informative, and, most importantly, delicious. It's a great way to spend 1-2 hours, whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with kids.
The combination of history, behind-the-scenes access, and the chance to sample new flavors makes this tour a must-do for any ice cream lover. Plus, the factory's location in the picturesque town of Waterbury adds to the overall charm of the experience.
If you find yourself in Vermont, I highly recommend making the trip to the Ben & Jerry's factory. Just remember to book your tour in advance and bring your sweet tooth!