Profile

Discover the Blue Bell Creamery Tour in Sylacauga, Alabama

The Blue Bell Creamery Tour in Sylacauga, AL, offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how one of America’s most famous ice creams is made. Guests view production through large observation windows overlooking the factory floor, learning how fresh ingredients are turned into classic Blue Bell flavors.

The experience includes access to the Visitor Center, where guests can explore Blue Bell’s history, view memorabilia, and enjoy a scoop of ice cream at the parlor. The factory store also sells branded merchandise and take-home treats, making it a family favorite for locals and road-trippers alike.

For anyone traveling through central Alabama, the Sylacauga tour is a sweet and affordable stop, combining education with the joy of fresh ice cream.

Why it’s special:
While Blue Bell is headquartered in Texas, its Sylacauga factory is a key production hub and the only Blue Bell location open for tours outside Brenham. Visitors not only see production in action but also enjoy a generous scoop of ice cream included with admission. For Alabamians, it’s a proud local connection to a nationally loved brand.

History/Story of Blue Bell Creamery in Sylacauga

Blue Bell Creameries began in 1907 in Brenham, Texas, but expanded into Sylacauga in 1996 to serve the Southeastern U.S. market. The Sylacauga facility was chosen for its central location and access to fresh ingredients.

Since opening, the Alabama plant has produced millions of gallons of ice cream annually while welcoming thousands of visitors to its popular factory tour. The Sylacauga site highlights Blue Bell’s growth beyond Texas while still maintaining its small-town values and dedication to quality.

What You’ll See & Do on the Blue Bell Creamery Tour

View the ice cream factory floor through observation windows.
Learn how Blue Bell ice cream is blended, frozen, and packaged.
Explore the Visitor Center exhibits and historical memorabilia.
Visit the Country Store for branded gifts and ice cream to-go.
Enjoy a generous scoop of Blue Bell ice cream at the parlor (included with admission).

Hands-On Elements: Ice cream sampling, exhibits, and interactive displays.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in the Visitor Center and store; restricted in production viewing areas.

Souvenirs & Extras:

Blue Bell Country Store with merchandise and take-home ice cream
Visitor Center memorabilia displays

Pricing of Blue Bell Creamery Tour (Sylacauga)

Adults: $5 (includes a scoop of ice cream)
Children (6–14): $3 (includes ice cream)
Children under 6: Free
Groups: Discounts available with advance booking

Practical Info for Visiting the Blue Bell Creamery Tour

Duration: ~45 minutes to 1 hour (plus time for store and ice cream parlor)
Format: Self-guided with observation windows + exhibits
Schedule & Seasonality: Open Monday–Friday, 9 AM–2 PM; closed weekends and major holidays
Audience: Families, ice cream lovers, school groups, road-trippers
Accessibility: Visitor Center and viewing areas are wheelchair accessible
Safety & Restrictions: No direct access to the factory floor; production viewed behind glass
Languages: English; limited printed materials available
Group & School Visits: Group tours welcome with reservations; bus parking available

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable casual clothing and appetite for ice cream
Facilities: Visitor Center, restrooms, ice cream parlor, Country Store, parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed on weekends, holidays, and during production shutdowns

Location & Booking

Getting There: Free parking onsite; ~1 hour southeast of Birmingham via US-280
Booking: Tickets available onsite at the Visitor Center; groups should reserve in advance
Cancellation & Refunds: Not applicable (onsite ticket sales only)
On-Site Extras: Ice cream parlor, Visitor Center, Country Store

Nearby

DeSoto Caverns (caves & family adventure park)
Talladega National Forest
Isabel Anderson Comer Museum & Arts Center

FAQs About Visiting the Blue Bell Creamery Tour in Sylacauga

Do I get free ice cream samples on the tour?
Yes — every ticket includes one large scoop of your choice at the Blue Bell parlor.

Can I walk on the production floor?
No, visitors view the production process safely from observation windows.

How long does the Blue Bell Creamery Tour take?
Plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, with extra time for ice cream and shopping.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No, tickets are purchased onsite. Groups should call ahead to schedule.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s a popular family stop, with ice cream, history exhibits, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Is the facility wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Visitor Center and observation galleries are fully accessible.

What makes the Sylacauga tour different from Brenham?
The Sylacauga plant is smaller but still a working production hub. It’s the only Blue Bell tour site outside Texas, making it special for the Southeast.