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Discover the Gilbert Chocolates Factory Tour in Michigan
Experience old-fashioned chocolate making at Gilbert Chocolates, a beloved Jackson confectionery crafting hand-dipped chocolates since 1900. The factory tour gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how caramel, creams, clusters, truffles, and their signature chocolates are created by skilled artisans.
Why it’s special:
Gilbert Chocolates still uses hand-dipping and small-batch production methods, preserving more than a century of Michigan chocolate-making tradition.
History/Story of Gilbert Chocolates
Gilbert Chocolates was founded by J. Grant Gilbert in 1900 and quickly became known throughout Jackson for its premium chocolates and old-world techniques. Over the decades, the company expanded but remained committed to using real butter, fresh cream, and traditional dipping methods. Today, Gilbert continues to operate as a family-owned Michigan institution with multiple stores and a modern factory that honors its heritage.
What You’ll See & Do at the Gilbert Chocolates Factory Tour
Walk the factory viewing corridor overlooking the full production floor
Watch chocolatiers hand-dip creams, caramels, cherries, and truffles
See enrobing lines coat candies in rich, flowing chocolate
Learn how caramel is cooked, cut, cooled, and shaped
Observe molding machines forming seasonal chocolates and bars
Sample signature chocolates during your visit
Explore the onsite Gilbert Chocolates retail shop
Hands-On Elements: Tasting samples, scent stations, chocolate-ingredient displays.
Photo/Video Policy: Photos allowed from behind the viewing glass; no production-area access.
Souvenirs & Extras: Boxed chocolates, truffles, nut clusters, caramels, sugar-free selections, gift baskets, seasonal specialties.
Pricing of the Gilbert Chocolates Factory Tour
Factory Tour: $3 per person
Kids under 5: Free
Private group tours: Available with reservation
Chocolate sampling included
Practical Info for Visiting Gilbert Chocolates
Duration: 20–40 minutes
Format: Self-guided viewing through glass corridor + tasting
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered year-round
Working Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Closed Sundays
Audience: Families, chocolate lovers, school groups, foodies
Accessibility: Fully accessible viewing spaces
Safety & Restrictions:No outside food or drink
Visitors stay behind viewing glass for food-safety compliance
Languages: English
Group Visits: Popular for student groups and clubs; group reservations required
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable attire
Facilities: Retail shop, restrooms, parking
Closures & Downtime: Production may vary; some lines may pause when batches finish
Nearby
Ella Sharp Museum
Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory
Cascade Falls
Downtown Jackson dining & shopping
FAQs About Visiting Gilbert Chocolates
Will I see hand-dipping?
Most days—Gilbert still hand-dips many creams and caramels, and visitors can watch from overhead.
Are samples included?
Yes, your tour includes complimentary chocolate tasting.
Is the tour child-friendly?
Absolutely—kids enjoy the chocolate-making process and seasonal molds.
Can I buy factory-exclusive chocolates?
Yes—the store often carries items unavailable at other Gilbert locations.
Do they make sugar-free chocolates?
Yes—Gilbert produces a variety of sugar-free options, and some may be visible on the production line.
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