Orbix Hot Glass Factory Tour — Fort Payne, Alabama

Discover the Orbix Hot Glass Factory Tour in Alabama

The Orbix Hot Glass Factory Tour in Fort Payne, Alabama offers a mesmerizing behind-the-scenes look at modern glassblowing inside a working hot glass studio. This guided factory tour takes visitors into an active production space where molten glass is shaped, blown, and transformed into colorful art pieces using traditional techniques and high-temperature furnaces. Ideal for families, art lovers, and curious travelers, the experience blends craftsmanship, creativity, and industrial heat.
Why it’s special:
Orbix Hot Glass isn’t a museum—it’s a live glass factory. Visitors watch real artisans working with glowing molten glass in real time, making every tour dynamic, unpredictable, and visually stunning.

History & Story of Orbix Hot Glass

Orbix Hot Glass was founded in Fort Payne, Alabama by glass artists with a mission to bring professional glassblowing and glass art to the region. Built as a working hot shop and gallery, Orbix quickly became a creative hub for handcrafted glassware, decorative art, and public demonstrations. Today, the studio continues to produce one-of-a-kind glass pieces while welcoming visitors to experience the craft up close.

What You’ll See & Do on the Orbix Hot Glass Factory Tour

• Watch live glassblowing demonstrations using molten glass

• See high-temperature furnaces, glory holes, and annealing ovens

• Learn how glass is heated, shaped, colored, and cooled

• Observe teamwork between glass artists during production

• Explore the on-site gallery featuring finished glass art

• Learn about tools, safety gear, and traditional techniques

Hands-On Elements: Observation-focused; occasional interactive demonstrations depending on schedule.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed; flash restricted during demonstrations.
Souvenirs & Extras: Gallery shop with handcrafted glass art, gifts, and decorative pieces.

Pricing of Orbix Hot Glass Factory Tour

• Demonstrations and tours are typically free

• Hands-on classes or workshops are offered for a fee

• Gallery purchases optional

Visiting information

Visits usually last 30–60 minutes and are offered as guided demonstrations during open hours. The experience is suitable for families, students, and art enthusiasts. Accessibility is partial due to hot shop layout, and closed-toe shoes are required for safety. Studio working hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Nearby

• Little River Canyon National Preserve

• Downtown Fort Payne

• DeSoto State Park

FAQs About Visiting the Orbix Hot Glass Factory Tour

Will I see live glassblowing during my visit?
Yes, most visits include live demonstrations where artists shape molten glass in real time.

Is Orbix Hot Glass safe for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must stay within designated viewing areas due to extreme heat.

Can I try glassblowing myself?
Hands-on classes and workshops are available by reservation and require an additional fee.

How hot does the glass get during demonstrations?
Molten glass can exceed 2,000°F, which is why visitors must follow safety guidelines closely.

Are all items in the gallery made on-site?
Yes, the glass art sold in the gallery is handcrafted at the Orbix Hot Glass studio.