Askinosie Chocolate Factory Tour — Springfield, Missouri

Discover the Askinosie Chocolate Factory Tour in Missouri

Go behind the scenes of one of America’s most respected bean-to-bar chocolate makers on the Askinosie Chocolate Factory Tour in Springfield, Missouri. This guided factory tour invites visitors inside a working chocolate factory where ethically sourced cacao is transformed into award-winning chocolate using traditional, small-batch methods. Guests learn about global cacao sourcing, chocolate making from bean to bar, and the company’s deep commitment to transparency and sustainability.

Why it’s special:
Askinosie Chocolate is a pioneer of direct-trade, bean-to-bar chocolate in the United States. The tour offers rare access to a real production floor while telling powerful stories about farmers, flavor, and ethical business practices—all from a converted historic warehouse.

History/Story of Askinosie Chocolate

Askinosie Chocolate was founded in 2006 by Shawn Askinosie, a former attorney who left his legal career to pursue ethical chocolate making. Built inside a former Springfield warehouse, the company focuses on direct relationships with cacao farmers around the world, paying premium prices and sharing profits transparently. Over the years, Askinosie Chocolate has earned national recognition for both quality and integrity, becoming a model for ethical food production.

What You’ll See & Do on the Askinosie Chocolate Factory Tour

• Guided walkthrough of the working chocolate factory

• Learn the bean-to-bar chocolate-making process

• See cacao roasting, grinding, and tempering equipment

• Discover how flavor profiles vary by cacao origin

• Enjoy a guided chocolate tasting

Hands-On Elements: Chocolate tasting and interactive discussions about sourcing and flavor.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in designated areas; restrictions may apply on the production floor.
Souvenirs & Extras: Factory shop with chocolate bars, drinking chocolate, cocoa nibs, and branded gifts.

Pricing of Askinosie Chocolate Factory Tour

• Factory tour & tasting: $10 per person

• Children under 12: Free with paying adult

Practical Info for Visiting Askinosie Chocolate Factory

Duration: Approximately 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided factory tour with tasting
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered weekly; advance booking required
Working Hours:

• Thursday: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM (tour time)

• Friday: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM (tour time)

• Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM (tour time)
  Audience: Families, food lovers, ethical sourcing enthusiasts
  Accessibility: Limited accessibility due to production layout and stairs
  Safety & Restrictions: Closed-toe shoes recommended; children must be supervised
  Languages: English
  Group & School Visits: Group tours available with advance arrangement
  What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes; casual attire
  Facilities: Factory shop, restrooms, parking
  Closures & Downtime: Tour schedule may change due to production needs

Nearby

• Downtown Springfield historic district

• Missouri State University campus

• Local coffee shops and food halls

FAQs About Visiting the Askinosie Chocolate Factory Tour

Is this a real working chocolate factory?
Yes, tours take place inside an active bean-to-bar chocolate production facility.

Do tours include chocolate tastings?
Yes, guided tastings are included and highlight different cacao origins.

Is Askinosie Chocolate ethically sourced?
Yes, the company is known for its direct-trade model and transparent farmer relationships.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children are welcome and free under age 12 with a paying adult.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is required as tour sizes are limited.