Ever Wondered How Your Favorite Indiana Products Are Made? Tour These Local Factories.
Indiana’s not just the Crossroads of America, it’s also where some of the coolest products in the country are built, bottled, and bagged. From sweet shops to massive RV plants, factory tours across the state give you a behind-the-scenes look at how Hoosier-made products come to life.
Here are the top factory tours (and experiences) you can check out in Indiana.
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🍬 Albanese Candy Factory — Merrillville, Indiana
Let’s start with the GOAT. Albanese Candy Factory in Merrillville is home to the World’s Best Gummi Bears®, and their factory store is a must-stop for any sweet tooth. While they don’t offer a full walking tour, you can watch behind-the-scenes videos showing how the gummies and chocolates are made—and, of course, stock up on your favorites at their epic candy store.
If you want the full story on how this family-owned shop became a global candy powerhouse, check out our full feature: Indiana's Sweetest Secret: Albanese Candy Factory.
Highlights:
Behind-the-scenes candy-making videos
Giant factory store packed with gummies, chocolates, and more
Gluten-free, nut-free, and kosher options
🚌 Airstream Factory Tour (Thor Industries) — Jackson Center, OH (Honorable Mention)
Okay, it’s technically in Ohio, but since Thor Industries, based in Elkhart, owns Airstream—and since Elkhart is the RV Capital of the World—it’s worth the trip. Take a guided tour to see how these legendary silver campers are built from the ground up.
Highlights:
Watch Airstreams assembled by hand
Guided walking tours of the production line
Showroom with current models
🚜 New Holland Agriculture Plant — Lafayette, Indiana
Tractor fans, this one’s for you. The CNH Industrial plant in Lafayette occasionally offers behind-the-scenes tours where you can watch massive tractors and combines being built for farms across the country.
Highlights:
See combines and tractors assembled on the production floor
Learn about Indiana’s agricultural manufacturing history
School groups and public tours (limited availability)
🍻 Upland Brewing Company — Bloomington, Indiana
For the 21+ crowd, Upland Brewing’s production facility offers a glimpse at how some of Indiana’s best craft beers come to life. You’ll learn about their brewing process, sustainability efforts, and get to sample some of their best seasonal brews.
Highlights:
Brewery tours with tastings
Learn how Upland’s classics and seasonal beers are brewed
Located minutes from downtown Bloomington
🚂 South Shore Freight Railroad Tour — Northern Indiana (Special Events)
For something a little different, check out South Shore Freight’s occasional open houses and special tours. You’ll learn how this historic freight line powered the industrial growth of Northern Indiana.
Highlights:
See vintage railcars and modern locomotives
Learn about Indiana’s railroad history
Seasonal events and community tours
Quick Q&A: Indiana Factory Fun
What is Indiana’s most famous factory tour?
Hands down, Albanese Candy Factory. Their candy is sold all over the world, but you can only experience the magic at their Merrillville store. Learn more in our full Albanese feature.
Can you tour RV factories in Indiana?
Absolutely. Elkhart County is full of RV brands like Thor, Jayco, and Winnebago. Most offer free or low-cost tours—just book ahead.
Hoosier Craftsmanship on Display
Whether it’s crafting the perfect gummy bear, assembling an RV, or brewing a world-class IPA, Indiana’s factory tours show the pride and craftsmanship that go into everything we make.
Next time you’re road-tripping through the state, make time to stop at one of these factories—and stock up on some Hoosier-made goodies while you’re there.
