Profile

Discover the Cheesehead Factory Tour in Wisconsin

The Foamation Cheesehead Factory Tour in Milwaukee, WI, offers visitors a quirky, hands-on experience celebrating one of Wisconsin’s most famous icons: the Cheesehead hat. Known nationwide as a symbol of Wisconsin pride and Green Bay Packers fandom, the Cheesehead is still handmade at Foamation, a family-owned foam factory.

On the guided tour, you’ll walk through the workshop to see how the bright yellow foam Cheeseheads are poured, cut, and finished. Guests learn the history of Foamation and the Cheesehead phenomenon, while also exploring the factory’s creativity beyond hats — from foam apparel to unique novelty items. Visitors also get the chance to make their own Cheesehead to take home as the ultimate souvenir.

Why it’s special:
This is not your typical food or auto factory tour — it’s a playful, foam-crafting experience that has become a Wisconsin tradition. Combining humor, hands-on fun, and local pride, it’s a great stop for families, school groups, and sports fans alike.

History/Story of Foamation Cheesehead

The Cheesehead was invented in 1987 by Ralph Bruno, who crafted the first one out of couch cushion foam. What started as a playful joke at a Packers game quickly turned into a cultural icon. Foamation was founded to meet growing demand, and today continues to handcraft Cheeseheads and other novelty foam products in Milwaukee.

The Cheesehead has since become a beloved Wisconsin symbol, recognized worldwide and proudly worn by fans far beyond the football field.

What You’ll See & Do on the Cheesehead Factory Tour

Watch artisans pour and cut foam into Cheesehead shapes.
Learn about the quirky history of the Cheesehead invention.
Explore the Foamation workshop and production process.
Create your own custom Cheesehead to take home.
Browse the retail store for hats, apparel, and novelty foam souvenirs.

Hands-On Elements: DIY Cheesehead crafting, Q&A with guides, interactive foam displays.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography encouraged throughout the factory and retail store.

Souvenirs & Extras:

Cheesehead hats, crowns, and unique foam products
Custom-made souvenirs available for purchase

Pricing of Cheesehead Factory Tour

Factory Tour + Make Your Own Cheesehead: ~$25 per person
Factory Tour Only: ~$12 per person
Children (under 12): Discounts available
Groups: Custom pricing available for schools and large parties

Practical Info for Visiting Foamation Cheesehead Factory

Duration: ~45–60 minutes
Format: Guided tour through factory + DIY activity + retail shop
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered year-round; hours vary; advance reservations recommended
Audience: Families, school groups, sports fans, curious travelers
Accessibility: Factory and retail store are wheelchair accessible
Safety & Restrictions:

Children welcome but must be supervised
Foam cutting stations supervised by staff

Languages: English; group interpreters may be available
Group & School Visits: Group bookings welcome; popular for field trips and team-building events

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothes; fun attitude for crafting
Facilities: Factory tour space, retail shop, restrooms, parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed major holidays

Location & Booking

Getting There: Located near Milwaukee’s Walker’s Point; free parking onsite; accessible via I-94 and local transit
Booking: Reserve tours online or call ahead; walk-ins accepted if space allows
Cancellation & Refunds: Refund policies vary; groups should confirm in advance
On-Site Extras: Retail store, DIY Cheesehead workshop

Nearby

Harley-Davidson Museum
Milwaukee Public Market
Lakefront Brewery

FAQs About Visiting the Cheesehead Factory Tour

Do I get to make my own Cheesehead?
Yes, with the full tour package you can create a personalized Cheesehead to take home.

How long does the tour take?
Most tours last 45–60 minutes, including the factory walk and crafting activity.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love making their own Cheeseheads, and the factory is safe for families.

Do I need to book in advance?
Reservations are recommended, especially for weekends and large groups.

Can I buy Cheeseheads without taking the tour?
Yes, the retail shop is open to the public and sells a wide variety of foam products.

What makes this tour unique?
It combines a fun factory walkthrough with a hands-on crafting activity, celebrating Wisconsin culture in a lighthearted way.