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Discover the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory Tour in Shelburne

The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory Tour in Shelburne, VT, is a heartwarming, hands-on experience where visitors of all ages can see how the world’s most lovable teddy bears are made. Founded in 1981, Vermont Teddy Bear is one of America’s leading makers of handcrafted plush bears — proudly designed, stitched, and stuffed right in Vermont.

The guided tour takes guests through the working factory floor, where artisans cut, sew, stuff, and dress teddy bears destined for homes around the world. Visitors can learn about the brand’s history, customization process, and signature “Bear-Gram” delivery service. Kids and adults alike can even design and build their own teddy bear in the Make-A-Friend-For-Life workshop.

Why it’s special:
This is one of Vermont’s most famous and family-friendly factory tours, offering a behind-the-scenes look at American craftsmanship and creativity. Every visitor leaves with a smile — and often, a bear to take home.

History/Story of Vermont Teddy Bear

Vermont Teddy Bear began in 1981 when John Sortino, a Burlington entrepreneur, started sewing bears at his kitchen table and selling them at a local farmer’s market. His hand-stitched bears quickly became popular, leading to the creation of the Vermont Teddy Bear Company.

The brand gained national fame with its unique “Bear-Gram” — a personalized teddy bear delivered in a gift box with a message of love or friendship. Today, each bear is still handmade in Vermont, continuing the tradition of quality, care, and charm that made it an American favorite.

What You’ll See & Do on the Vermont Teddy Bear Tour

Take a guided factory tour through production rooms where bears are made by hand.
Watch skilled craftspeople cutting, sewing, and stuffing teddy bears.
Learn about the Bear-Gram tradition and Vermont Teddy Bear’s 40+ year history.
Explore themed bear displays — from sports teams to weddings and holiday bears.
Visit the Make-A-Friend-For-Life workshop to build your own bear.
Shop at the Bear Shop for exclusive and custom designs.

Hands-On Elements: Bear assembly workshop, stuffing machine experience, and personalized bear-making activity.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography welcome in most areas; flash discouraged on the factory floor.

Souvenirs & Extras:

Bear Shop with hundreds of teddy bear designs, accessories, and gifts
Customizable bears for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays

Pricing of Vermont Teddy Bear Factory Tour

Factory Tour: $5 Adults, $3 Children (Ages 2–12), Children under 2 Free
Make-A-Friend Workshop: Additional charge based on selected bear and accessories
Group Rates: Available for 10+ visitors
School Tours: Educational programs available

Practical Info for Visiting Vermont Teddy Bear

Duration: ~30–45 minutes for the guided tour (plus time for shopping and workshops)
Format: Guided tour + optional Make-A-Friend workshop + Bear Shop visit
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round; tours daily 10 AM–4 PM; closed major holidays
Audience: Families, children, school groups, tourists, and collectors
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair and stroller accessible
Safety & Restrictions:

Children must be supervised in workshop area
Service animals allowed

Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group reservations and educational programs available with advance notice

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothing, camera, and creativity for bear-making
Facilities: Bear Shop, restrooms, picnic area, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

Location & Booking

Getting There: Located 15 minutes south of Burlington on Route 7; free onsite parking
Booking: Purchase tickets at the door or online at VermontTeddyBear.com
Cancellation & Refunds: Contact ahead for group rescheduling or cancellations
On-Site Extras: Bear Shop, Make-A-Friend Workshop, outdoor picnic area

Nearby

Shelburne Museum
Lake Champlain Maritime Museum
Burlington Waterfront Park

FAQs About Visiting the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

Can I see the bears being made?
Yes! The guided tour takes you onto the factory floor where bears are sewn, stuffed, and finished by hand.

Is the tour good for kids?
Absolutely — it’s one of Vermont’s most family-friendly attractions, especially with the Make-A-Friend-For-Life workshop.

Do I need to book in advance?
No, walk-ins are welcome; groups of 10 or more should book ahead.

Can I make my own teddy bear?
Yes! You can design, stuff, and dress your own teddy bear right at the factory.

Are the bears really made in Vermont?
Yes, every Vermont Teddy Bear is handcrafted at the Shelburne factory.

How long does the tour take?
Tours last about 30–45 minutes, with extra time for shopping and building your own bear.