Bemidji Woolen Mills Tour — Bemidji, Minnesota

Discover the Bemidji Woolen Mills Tour in Minnesota

Located in Bemidji, Minnesota, the Bemidji Woolen Mills Tour offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look inside a historic textile mill specializing in custom wool blankets and robes. This guided factory tour takes guests through an active production facility where traditional wool processing methods are still used to create made-to-order products.

Why it’s special:
Bemidji Woolen Mills is one of the few remaining small-scale woolen mills in the United States. Unlike mass-production factories, this mill focuses on custom orders, heritage techniques, and hands-on craftsmanship—making each tour a personal and authentic manufacturing experience.

History/Story of Bemidji Woolen Mills

Bemidji Woolen Mills was founded in 1920 and has remained family-owned for over a century. The mill became known for producing durable wool garments and blankets designed for northern climates. Today, Bemidji Woolen Mills continues to operate in its original location, preserving traditional wool processing while serving customers nationwide with custom-made wool products.

What You’ll See & Do on the Bemidji Woolen Mills Tour

• Tour an active woolen textile factory

• Learn how raw wool is washed, carded, spun, dyed, and woven

• See historic looms and textile machinery in operation

• Understand the custom-order process from design to finished product

• Visit the retail store featuring Bemidji-made wool blankets and robes

Hands-On Elements: Educational explanations and close-up views of machinery
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in designated areas only
Souvenirs & Extras: On-site store offering custom wool blankets, robes, and accessories

Pricing of the Bemidji Woolen Mills Tour

Factory tours are free of charge.
Donations are appreciated.

Visiting information

Duration: Approximately 30–45 minutes
Format: Guided factory tour
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered year-round during business hours
Audience: Families, students, textile enthusiasts, heritage travelers
Accessibility: Limited; historic mill includes stairs and uneven flooring
Safety & Restrictions: Closed-toe shoes recommended; children must be supervised
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group tours welcome; advance notice recommended
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Facilities: Retail store, restrooms, parking
Closures & Downtime: Tours may pause during peak production or holidays
Working hours:

• Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Sunday: Closed

Nearby

• Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues

• Lake Bemidji waterfront

• Downtown Bemidji arts district

FAQs About Visiting Bemidji Woolen Mills

Is this a working factory?
Yes. Bemidji Woolen Mills actively produces wool blankets and garments on-site.

Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Advance booking is not required for individuals, but groups should call ahead.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, though close supervision is required due to machinery.

Can I shop without taking a tour?
Yes. The retail store is open during regular business hours.

Are products made on-site?
Yes. All wool products are manufactured at the Bemidji mill.