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Discover the Ford Rouge Factory Tour in Dearborn, Michigan

The Ford Rouge Factory Tour at The Henry Ford in Dearborn, MI, is one of the most immersive automotive experiences in the United States. Visitors step inside a working Ford assembly plant to watch the iconic Ford F-150 truck come to life, from body welding to final inspection.

The tour begins at The Henry Ford Museum with a multimedia introduction before a guided bus takes you into the Rouge Complex — once the largest integrated factory in the world. Inside, you’ll walk along an observation deck high above the production floor where state-of-the-art robotics and skilled workers assemble America’s best-selling truck.

Beyond the assembly line, the tour includes interactive exhibits, historic Ford vehicles, and the Living Roof, a 10-acre eco-friendly roof that is one of the largest in the world. It’s a dynamic mix of history, technology, sustainability, and innovation.

Why it’s special:
The Rouge Complex has been central to Ford’s history since 1917, producing everything from Model A’s to modern trucks. Today, it remains a working assembly plant that doubles as a showcase of sustainable manufacturing and American industrial heritage. Watching a Ford F-150 being built in real-time is a rare opportunity, making this one of the most authentic and educational factory tours in the U.S.

History/Story of the Ford Rouge Factory

The Rouge Complex was originally built by Henry Ford between 1917–1928 and became the world’s largest industrial complex. At its peak, the Rouge employed over 100,000 workers and produced every component of a car on-site — from steel and glass to final assembly.

The Rouge was home to milestones such as the Model A and Ford Mustang, and also witnessed labor history, including the famous 1937 “Battle of the Overpass.” In the 1990s, Ford transformed the site into a model of green manufacturing, highlighted by the Living Roof and environmental innovations. Today, it continues to build Ford’s flagship vehicle, the F-150 pickup truck, while welcoming thousands of visitors each year through The Henry Ford.

What You’ll See & Do on the Ford Rouge Factory Tour

Watch the Ford F-150 assembly line in action from an elevated observation deck.
Explore the Living Roof and learn about Ford’s green manufacturing initiatives.
View multimedia presentations like “The Art of Manufacturing” and “Born to Build.”
See historic Ford vehicles and exhibits inside the visitor center.
Visit the Legacy Theater for a short film on Henry Ford and the Rouge Complex.
Shop for Ford souvenirs and F-150 merchandise at the gift shop.

Hands-On Elements: Interactive exhibits with robotics, design-your-own-vehicle activities, and sustainability displays.

Photo/Video Policy: No photography inside the assembly plant; allowed in exhibits, roof, and visitor areas.

Souvenirs & Extras:

Ford Rouge Factory Tour store with branded Ford gear
Access to The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village (with combo tickets)

Pricing of Ford Rouge Factory Tour

Adults (12–61): $24
Seniors (62+): $22
Youth (5–11): $18
Children under 5: Free
Combo tickets with The Henry Ford Museum available

Practical Info for Visiting the Ford Rouge Factory Tour

Duration: 2 hours (including assembly line viewing, exhibits, and films)
Format: Bus transfer + self-guided factory tour + exhibits
Schedule & Seasonality: Open Monday–Saturday, 9:30 AM–5 PM; closed Sundays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
Audience: Automotive enthusiasts, families, school groups, tourists near Detroit
Accessibility: Fully accessible; elevators and wheelchair access provided
Safety & Restrictions:

No photography or video in the working plant
Bags may be subject to security screening
Indoor walking required
Languages: English; multilingual printed materials available
Group & School Visits: School and group tours available with advance booking

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes for walking; ID for ticket purchase
Facilities: Restrooms, gift shop, theater, bus shuttles, food options at The Henry Ford
Closures & Downtime: Closed Sundays and select holidays; assembly line may pause during model changeovers

Location & Booking

Getting There: Paid parking at The Henry Ford; Rouge shuttle buses depart from the museum entrance; 20 minutes from downtown Detroit
Booking: Tickets available online at The Henry Ford – Ford Rouge Factory Tour or onsite
Cancellation & Refunds: Tickets refundable or reschedulable up to 24 hours before visit
On-Site Extras: Access to The Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, and dining options

Nearby

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Greenfield Village
Detroit Institute of Arts

FAQs About Visiting the Ford Rouge Factory Tour

Do I actually see cars being built on the Ford Rouge Factory Tour?
Yes, visitors watch the Ford F-150 truck assembled in real time on the factory floor.

Can children go on the Rouge Factory Tour?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome, though it’s best for ages 5 and up due to walking and attention span.

Is photography allowed inside the Ford factory?
No photos or videos are allowed inside the active assembly plant, but you may take photos in visitor areas and exhibits.

How long does the Ford Rouge Factory Tour take?
Plan for about 2 hours, including bus transfer, films, exhibits, and time at the observation deck.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, especially during summer and weekends, as tour slots may sell out.

Is the Rouge Factory Tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is fully accessible with elevators, ramps, and shuttle accommodations.

What else can I do at The Henry Ford besides the Rouge Tour?
You can combine the Rouge Tour with The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and Greenfield Village for a full-day experience.