Crowley Cheese Factory Tour — Craftsbury, Vermont

Discover the Crowley Cheese Factory Tour in Vermont

Located in Craftsbury, Vermont, the Crowley Cheese Factory Tour gives visitors a rare look inside one of the oldest continuously operating cheese factories in the United States. Guests can observe traditional cheese-making methods, see aging rooms where wheels mature over time, and learn how handcrafted Vermont cheddar-style cheeses are produced using time-honored techniques.

Why it’s special: Crowley Cheese has been made using the same traditional recipe since 1824, making it one of America’s most historic artisan cheese producers.

History & Story of Crowley Cheese

Crowley Cheese was first produced in 1824, when local farmers in Vermont began crafting a distinctive cheddar-style cheese using milk from nearby dairy farms. Over time, the small cheese factory gained a reputation for its crumbly texture and slightly tangy flavor.

Despite changes in the dairy industry, Crowley Cheese has maintained its commitment to traditional production methods. The historic factory building still produces cheese in small batches, preserving nearly two centuries of Vermont cheesemaking heritage.

What You’ll See & Do on the Crowley Cheese Factory Tour

• Watch traditional cheese-making equipment used in small-batch production
• Learn how milk is curdled, pressed, and formed into cheese wheels
• Explore aging rooms where cheese matures for months
• Discover the history of Vermont’s dairy and cheese industry
• Sample Crowley’s signature cheddar-style cheeses

Hands-On Elements: Visitors can participate in tastings of several Crowley Cheese varieties.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography is allowed in public areas and the factory store.

Souvenirs & Extras: Fresh cheeses, aged varieties, and Vermont food products available in the on-site cheese shop.

Pricing of the Crowley Cheese Factory Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

Cheese tastings and guided explanations are typically included during visits.

Visiting information for Crowley Cheese Factory Tour

Duration: Approximately 20–30 minutes
Age limits: All ages welcome
Accessibility: Visitor areas and shop are wheelchair accessible
Working Hours: Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday Closed

Visitors can watch the cheesemaking process and enjoy tastings during store hours.

Nearby attractions to Crowley Cheese Factory Tour

• Craftsbury Outdoor Center
• Lake Eligo
• Hill Farmstead Brewery

FAQs About Visiting the Crowley Cheese Factory Tour

How old is Crowley Cheese?
Crowley Cheese dates back to 1824, making it one of the oldest continuously operating cheese producers in the United States.

What makes Crowley Cheese unique?
The cheese has a distinctive crumbly texture and tangy flavor that differs slightly from traditional cheddar.

Can visitors watch the cheese being made?
Yes. Visitors can observe the small-scale production process used to craft the cheese.

Are tastings included with the visit?
Yes. Guests can usually sample several varieties of Crowley Cheese at the factory shop.

Can visitors buy cheese at the factory?
Absolutely. The on-site shop sells fresh and aged cheeses along with Vermont specialty foods.