Hilmar Cheese Company Factory Tour - Hilmar, California

Discover the Hilmar Cheese Factory Tour in California

The Hilmar Cheese Company Factory Tour in Hilmar, CA, offers visitors an inside look at one of the largest cheese and whey protein producers in the world. Founded in 1984 by a group of local dairy families, Hilmar Cheese Company is known for its high-quality natural cheeses and commitment to sustainable dairy innovation.

Visitors can explore the Hilmar Cheese Visitor Center, which features interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and guided or self-guided tours that explain how milk becomes delicious cheese. From the viewing windows, guests can watch cheesemakers at work as milk is pasteurized, curdled, and pressed into blocks. The tour concludes with a tasting of Hilmar’s signature cheeses — from Monterey Jack to Cheddar and beyond.

Why it’s special:
Hilmar Cheese Company combines agricultural education, family fun, and real factory action in one of California’s most impressive dairy destinations. It’s the perfect stop for families, foodies, and travelers along Highway 99 or the Central Valley dairy trail.

History/Story of Hilmar Cheese Company

Hilmar Cheese Company was founded in 1984 by 12 local dairy families with a vision to process their own milk and create top-quality cheese products. The company started small but quickly grew into a global leader in cheese and whey protein production.

Still headquartered in Hilmar, California, the company now operates with a focus on sustainability, community support, and dairy innovation. The Hilmar Visitor Center opened in 1998 to give the public an educational and engaging look at California’s dairy industry.

What You’ll See & Do on the Hilmar Cheese Factory Tour

• Watch cheese being made through large viewing windows into the production floor.

• Learn about the cheese-making process — from milk collection to curd cutting and pressing.

• Try your hand at “Make Your Own Cheese” activities (available during select times).

• Sample Hilmar’s award-winning cheeses and dairy products.

• Explore interactive exhibits about dairy farming, sustainability, and nutrition.

• Visit the gift shop and café for ice cream, sandwiches, and cheese souvenirs.

Hands-On Elements: Cheese-tasting stations, milk-to-cheese demonstrations, hands-on exhibits for kids.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in visitor areas; restricted near production zones.

Souvenirs & Extras:

• Cheese gift boxes, dairy-themed merchandise, and local products

• On-site café featuring grilled cheese sandwiches and ice cream

Pricing of Hilmar Cheese Factory Tour

• Self-Guided Tour: Free

• Guided Tour (groups 10+): ~$5 per person (includes tasting & guided experience)

• “Make Your Own Cheese” Activity: ~$3–5 per person

• School & Group Tours: Discounted educational programs available

Practical Info for Visiting Hilmar Cheese

Duration: ~45–60 minutes
Format: Self-guided or guided tour + tastings + café/shop visit
Schedule & Seasonality: Open Monday–Saturday, 7 AM–7 PM; closed Sundays and major holidays
Audience: Families, students, travelers, and cheese lovers
Accessibility: Fully accessible; elevators and wide walkways available
Safety & Restrictions:

• No pets inside (service animals welcome)

• Children must be supervised in viewing areas

Languages: English; guided tours may be available in Spanish with advance notice
Group & School Visits: Educational and agricultural field trips welcome with reservations

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothes, curiosity for dairy, and a good appetite
Facilities: Visitor center, café, gift shop, restrooms, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed Sundays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

Location & Booking

Getting There: Located off Highway 99 between Turlock and Los Banos; free onsite parking available
Booking: Walk-ins welcome for self-guided tours; group reservations via Hilmar.com/tours
Cancellation & Refunds: Not applicable (free or low-cost admission)
On-Site Extras: Café, educational exhibits, tastings, and outdoor seating

Nearby

• Turlock Historical Society Museum

• Hilmar County Park

• E&J Gallo Winery (Modesto)

FAQs About Visiting the Hilmar Cheese Factory Tour

Is the tour free?
Yes! Self-guided tours are free, and guided tours for groups are very affordable.

Can I see cheese being made?
Yes, large viewing windows let you watch the cheese-making process live during production hours.

Are samples included?
Yes, visitors receive free samples of Hilmar’s signature cheeses.

Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely — kids love the hands-on exhibits and “Make Your Own Cheese” activities.

Do I need to reserve a tour?
Walk-ins are welcome for self-guided visits, but groups should schedule in advance.

Can I buy cheese there?
Yes, the gift shop and café sell packaged cheeses, snacks, and local goods.

How long does the visit take?
Plan for 45–60 minutes, or longer if you stop for lunch or ice cream.