Turkey Hill Dairy Experience Tour — Columbia, Pennsylvania

Discover the Turkey Hill Experience in Pennsylvania

The Turkey Hill Experience in Columbia, PA, offers an immersive, family-friendly adventure into the world of ice cream, tea, and dairy. Located in a historic silk mill overlooking the Susquehanna River, this interactive attraction celebrates the heritage and flavors of one of America’s favorite brands — Turkey Hill Dairy.

Visitors can learn how Turkey Hill ice cream and tea are made, create their own virtual flavor, milk a mechanical cow, and enjoy all-you-can-taste samples of Turkey Hill’s signature products. The experience is designed for all ages, blending education, fun, and plenty of sweet rewards.

Why it’s special:
Unlike a traditional factory tour, Turkey Hill Experience combines interactive exhibits and virtual production experiences that let visitors become part of the process. Whether you’re crafting your own ice cream flavor or sampling fresh tea, it’s a delightful taste of Pennsylvania’s dairy heritage.

History/Story of Turkey Hill

Turkey Hill Dairy began in 1931 as a small family-run milk delivery business on a country farm near Lancaster, Pennsylvania. In the 1950s, the company expanded into ice cream, using fresh milk from local farms, and quickly grew into a nationally recognized brand.

The Turkey Hill Experience opened in 2011 as a tribute to this legacy, transforming a historic silk mill into a modern visitor attraction. It celebrates local dairy farming, innovation, and the joy of making simple, delicious products for generations of families.

What You’ll See & Do at the Turkey Hill Experience

• Learn about ice cream and tea production through interactive exhibits.

• Create your own virtual ice cream flavor — name it, design it, and make it digital!

• “Milk a cow” in the interactive dairy farm exhibit.

• Sample unlimited Turkey Hill ice cream and teas.

• Visit the Taste Lab to make real ice cream with your favorite mix-ins.

• Explore displays on Lancaster County’s agricultural history and Turkey Hill’s story.

• Stop by the gift shop for ice cream-themed souvenirs and local goodies.

Hands-On Elements: Virtual flavor creation, ice cream sampling, Taste Lab sessions, and hands-on dairy exhibits.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography encouraged throughout the Experience.

Souvenirs & Extras:

• Gift shop with Turkey Hill apparel, mugs, toys, and edible souvenirs

• Ice cream and tea tastings included with admission

Pricing of Turkey Hill Experience Tour

• General Admission: ~$13.50 Adults, ~$11.50 Seniors, ~$11.50 Children (Ages 3–12)

• Taste Lab Add-On: +$6.25 per person

• Group & School Discounts: Available for 15+ visitors

• Children under 3: Free

Practical Info for Visiting Turkey Hill Experience

Duration: ~1–2 hours (plus extra time for Taste Lab)
Format: Self-guided interactive tour + optional guided Taste Lab experience
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round; hours vary by season (closed major holidays)
Audience: Families, school groups, food lovers, and ice cream fans of all ages
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
Safety & Restrictions:

• Children must be supervised at all times

• No outside food/drink allowed

Languages: English; printed guides available in multiple languages
Group & School Visits: Educational group packages and field trips available

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothes, sweet tooth, and camera
Facilities: Restrooms, gift shop, tasting area, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

Location & Booking

Getting There: Located just off U.S. Route 30 between Lancaster and York; free parking available
Booking: Purchase tickets online at TurkeyHillExperience.com
Cancellation & Refunds: Refunds available for cancellations with advance notice; rescheduling allowed
On-Site Extras: Taste Lab, gift shop, sampling stations, family play zones

Nearby

• National Watch & Clock Museum (Columbia)

• Lancaster Central Market

• Amish Country scenic routes

FAQs About Visiting the Turkey Hill Experience

Do I see the actual ice cream factory?
No, production happens at the main Turkey Hill Dairy nearby, but exhibits simulate the full process.

Can I really make my own ice cream?
Yes, in the Taste Lab you can mix real ingredients and make your own flavor to enjoy.

Are samples included?
Absolutely — unlimited ice cream and tea tastings are included with admission.

Is the tour suitable for young kids?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with fun hands-on exhibits for all ages.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Tickets can be purchased at the door, but Taste Lab sessions often sell out, so advance booking is recommended.

Can I host a group or party?
Yes, the Experience offers group rates and birthday packages.