Joy Cone Ice Cream Cone Factory Tour — Flagstaff, Arizona

Discover the Joy Cone Ice Cream Cone Factory Tour

Go behind the scenes of a classic American treat on the Joy Cone Ice Cream Cone Factory Tour in Flagstaff, Arizona. This guided tour shows how crisp waffle cones, sugar cones, and cake cones are made at one of the largest cone manufacturers in the world. Visitors watch automated production lines in action, learn how cones are baked and packaged, and enjoy fresh samples straight from the factory.

Why it’s special:
Joy Cone has been making ice cream cones for over a century, and the Flagstaff facility is one of the few places where the public can see large-scale cone production up close. The tour is fast-paced, family-friendly, and ends with generous tasting — a hit with kids and adults alike.

History / Story of Joy Cone

Joy Cone began in the early 20th century as a small cone bakery and grew into a nationally recognized supplier of ice cream cones for major brands and scoop shops. The Flagstaff factory plays a key role in Joy Cone’s modern operations, combining high-volume automated baking with strict quality control. Despite its scale, the company continues to emphasize tradition, consistency, and fun.

What You’ll See & Do on the Joy Cone Factory Tour

• Watch waffle cones and sugar cones being baked on high-speed lines

• Learn how batter is mixed, baked, rolled, cooled, and packaged

• See quality checks that ensure cones stay crisp and uniform

• Hear fun facts about cone history and production scale

• Enjoy free samples of freshly made cones

• Visit the factory shop area when available

Hands-On Elements: Live production viewing, guided explanations, tasting
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in designated areas; follow staff guidance around machinery
Souvenirs & Extras: Cone packs and novelty items may be available depending on season

Pricing of the Joy Cone Factory Tour

Price: Free
All standard factory tours are offered at no cost.

Practical Info for Visiting Joy Cone Factory

Duration: 30–45 minutes
Format: Guided walking tour through production viewing areas
Working Hours (Tours):

• Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Saturday–Sunday: Closed

(Tours run on weekdays during active production; advance booking recommended for groups.)

Audience: Families, school groups, food lovers, Route 66 travelers
Accessibility: Facility is generally accessible; contact ahead for specific needs
Safety & Restrictions:

• Closed-toe shoes recommended

• Children must stay with adults

• No food or drink beyond samples
  Languages: English
  Group & School Visits: Very popular with schools; reservations required for large groups
  What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes, camera, curiosity
  Facilities: Restrooms, parking, waiting area
  Closures: Closed weekends, holidays, and during maintenance periods

Nearby

• Historic Route 66 — Shops and roadside attractions

• Downtown Flagstaff — Cafés, breweries, and local stores

• Lowell Observatory — Science and astronomy experiences

• Coconino National Forest — Trails and scenic outdoor areas

FAQs About Visiting Joy Cone Factory

Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are recommended, especially for school groups and busy travel seasons. Walk-ins may be limited.

Will I see cones being made?
Yes. Tours take place during active production, so you’ll see cones baked, rolled, and packaged in real time.

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes. The tour is short, visual, and engaging, making it ideal for kids.

Are samples included?
Seen, smelled, and tasted — free cone samples are a highlight of the visit.

Can I buy cones on-site?
Availability varies by season, but some packaged products may be available.