Gilbert Chocolates Factory Tour — Jackson, Michigan

Discover the Gilbert Chocolates Factory Tour in Michigan

Experience old-fashioned chocolate making at Gilbert Chocolates, a beloved Jackson confectionery crafting hand-dipped chocolates since 1900. The factory tour gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how caramel, creams, clusters, truffles, and their signature chocolates are created by skilled artisans.
Why it’s special:
Gilbert Chocolates still uses hand-dipping and small-batch production methods, preserving more than a century of Michigan chocolate-making tradition.

History/Story of Gilbert Chocolates

Gilbert Chocolates was founded by J. Grant Gilbert in 1900 and quickly became known throughout Jackson for its premium chocolates and old-world techniques. Over the decades, the company expanded but remained committed to using real butter, fresh cream, and traditional dipping methods. Today, Gilbert continues to operate as a family-owned Michigan institution with multiple stores and a modern factory that honors its heritage.

What You’ll See & Do at the Gilbert Chocolates Factory Tour

• Walk the factory viewing corridor overlooking the full production floor

• Watch chocolatiers hand-dip creams, caramels, cherries, and truffles

• See enrobing lines coat candies in rich, flowing chocolate

• Learn how caramel is cooked, cut, cooled, and shaped

• Observe molding machines forming seasonal chocolates and bars

• Sample signature chocolates during your visit

• Explore the onsite Gilbert Chocolates retail shop

Hands-On Elements: Tasting samples, scent stations, chocolate-ingredient displays.
Photo/Video Policy: Photos allowed from behind the viewing glass; no production-area access.
Souvenirs & Extras: Boxed chocolates, truffles, nut clusters, caramels, sugar-free selections, gift baskets, seasonal specialties.

Pricing of the Gilbert Chocolates Factory Tour

• Factory Tour: $3 per person

• Kids under 5: Free

• Private group tours: Available with reservation

• Chocolate sampling included

Practical Info for Visiting Gilbert Chocolates

Duration: 20–40 minutes
Format: Self-guided viewing through glass corridor + tasting
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered year-round
Working Hours:

• Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM

• Closed Sundays
  Audience: Families, chocolate lovers, school groups, foodies
  Accessibility: Fully accessible viewing spaces
  Safety & Restrictions:

• No outside food or drink

• Visitors stay behind viewing glass for food-safety compliance
  Languages: English
  Group Visits: Popular for student groups and clubs; group reservations required
  What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable attire
  Facilities: Retail shop, restrooms, parking
  Closures & Downtime: Production may vary; some lines may pause when batches finish

Nearby

• Ella Sharp Museum

• Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory

• Cascade Falls

• Downtown Jackson dining & shopping

FAQs About Visiting Gilbert Chocolates

Will I see hand-dipping?
Most days—Gilbert still hand-dips many creams and caramels, and visitors can watch from overhead.

Are samples included?
Yes, your tour includes complimentary chocolate tasting.

Is the tour child-friendly?
Absolutely—kids enjoy the chocolate-making process and seasonal molds.

Can I buy factory-exclusive chocolates?
Yes—the store often carries items unavailable at other Gilbert locations.

Do they make sugar-free chocolates?
Yes—Gilbert produces a variety of sugar-free options, and some may be visible on the production line.