6 Informative AND fun factory tours in Virginia

Explore Virginia’s fascinating factory tours, offering a behind-the-scenes look at local manufacturing processes and the craftsmanship behind iconic products. 

Virginia is home to a diverse collection of factories, each with its own unique history and story. Many of these facilities offer tours, giving visitors an up-close look at how iconic products are made. From chocolate to jewelry, beer to homes, the state’s factories offer a fascinating glimpse into its industrial landscape.

Here are some of the most interesting and engaging factory tours you can explore.

1. Stone Brewing 

Location: 4300 Williamsburg Ave., Richmond, VA 23231

Stone Brewing, a West Coast staple, established its East Coast brewery in Richmond, cementing the city’s status as a craft beer hub. Since it opened in 2018, Stone Brewing Richmond has been a popular stop for beer lovers. Their brewery tour provides an in-depth look at the brewing process, from raw ingredients to the final product. With a 90-minute tour that includes tastings of their signature beers, guests can also learn about Stone’s commitment to sustainability. The tour is open to guests aged 21 and up. Tickets are $10, and reservations are recommended.

2. Hugo Kohl

Location: 217 S. Liberty St. #103, Harrisonburg, VA 22801

At Hugo Kohl, visitors are invited to step inside the world of fine jewelry making with an immersive experience at the company’s museum. The museum offers a fascinating look into the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating bespoke pieces. Guests can learn about the techniques used in jewelry production, including the intricate process of handcrafting antique-inspired designs. The museum also highlights the history of the company, which began as a small family operation and has since grown into a respected name in the jewelry industry. A visit to Hugo Kohl offers an opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each piece while gaining a deeper understanding of both the modern and historical methods used in jewelry production.

3. Affordable Lifts

Location: 147 Mill Ridge Rd., Suite 232, Lynchburg, VA 24502

Affordable Lifts in Lynchburg is dedicated to providing affordable, simple, and safe home lift solutions. The company started with a mission to help families with mobility issues, and it has since grown into a full-fledged business. Visitors can tour the facility and see how these innovative lifts are designed and assembled. This is a great option for those curious about home accessibility solutions and the process behind them. The tours are informal, and the friendly team is happy to answer any questions.

4. Nationwide Homes

Location: 1100 Rives Rd., Martinsville, VA 24112

Nationwide Homes, based in Martinsville, is one of the leading manufacturers of modular and manufactured homes. Their factory tour takes visitors through the process of building homes from start to finish. Guests can witness the assembly line in action, seeing the precision and care that goes into constructing high-quality, affordable homes. The tour also offers a chance to learn about the company’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency in home construction.

5. Nancy’s Candy Co. 

Location: 2684 Jeb Stuart Hwy., Meadows of Dan, VA 24120

If you have a sweet tooth, Nancy’s Candy Co. in Meadows of Dan is the place to visit. This family-owned business has been making handcrafted chocolates and candy since 1972. On the tour, you’ll see the candy-making process from start to finish and even get to sample some of their famous chocolates. It’s a fun and delicious experience for visitors of all ages and is perfect for families looking to add a little sweetness to their trip.

6. Made in Virginia exhibit at Virginia Museum of History & Culture

Location: 428 N Arthur Ashe Blvd., Richmond, VA 23220 

The Made in Virginia exhibit at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture offers a fascinating look at the state’s industrial history and its global contributions. It showcases Virginia’s long history of manufacturing, from the tobacco industry to shipbuilding and furniture production. Visitors will explore key moments like the invention of the cigarette-rolling machine in Roanoke and the transformation of Roanoke into a major railroad manufacturing hub.

The exhibit highlights Virginia’s role in coal mining, its thriving shipyards—Newport News Shipbuilding and Norfolk Naval Shipyard—and more recent industries like craft breweries and wineries. It also covers the state’s impact on automotive production, entertainment, and pharmaceuticals, providing a comprehensive view of how Virginia’s factories and industries have shaped both the state and the world.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.