Discover the Ashe County Cheese Factory Tour in North Carolina

Ashe County Cheese is North Carolina’s oldest cheese factory, offering visitors an up-close view of traditional cheesemaking in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests can watch fresh cheese being crafted through large viewing windows, explore the factory store, and sample regional favorites.
Why it’s special: It’s one of the few places in the Southeast where you can watch real cheesemakers at work, see curds formed and pressed, and shop dozens of locally made cheeses and treats.

History/Story of Ashe County Cheese

Founded in 1930, Ashe County Cheese has been producing artisan cheeses for nearly a century. Built in a small mountain community known for dairy farms, the factory became a regional icon and an essential part of local heritage. Over time, it expanded into a popular tourist destination where visitors can witness the craft of cheesemaking while enjoying traditional products like cheddar, Colby, flavored blocks, and fresh cheese curds.

What You’ll See & Do

• Watch cheesemakers from a large viewing area as they heat, stir, drain, mold, and press cheese

• Learn how milk becomes cheese through live demonstrations and posted educational displays

• Observe curd cutting, pressing, and aging processes depending on the day’s production schedule

• Browse the factory store featuring a huge selection of cheeses, local products, and regional goods

• Sample freshly made cheese curds, specialty spreads, fudge, and locally sourced snacks

Visiting Information

Hands-On Elements

The visit is primarily observational, but visitors can engage with educational displays explaining milk processing, curd formation, and cheese aging. Tastings in the store let guests sample a variety of flavors and textures.

Photo/Video Policy

Photos are welcome in the viewing area and store. For safety and sanitation, no photos are allowed inside the actual production rooms.

Souvenirs & Extras

• Cheese blocks, curds, spreads, and seasonal varieties

• Local jams, honey, pickles, sauces, and mountain-made goods

• Handmade fudge and specialty sweets

• Gift baskets, cooler bags, and souvenir items

Practical Info

Cheese production occurs on select weekdays and times may vary, so arriving earlier in the day increases the chance of seeing active cheesemaking. The viewing room is free to enter and is accessible for all ages. A typical visit lasts 20–40 minutes, longer if shopping or tasting.

Pricing

• Viewing Room: Free

• Cheese Samples: Free in store

• Products: Individually priced

• Group visits: Free; larger groups may call ahead

Nearby

• Downtown West Jefferson shops, murals, and cafés

• Ashe County Arts Center

• Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

• Blue Ridge Parkway scenic overlooks

FAQs

When can I see cheese being made?

Cheesemaking typically takes place on weekday mornings. Production varies daily, so visiting earlier improves your chances of viewing the process.

Do I need a reservation?

No — the viewing room is open to walk-ins during business hours. Groups may call ahead for coordination.

Are samples available?

Yes. The store often provides samples, especially of curds and seasonal cheeses.

Is the experience kid-friendly?

Very. Children enjoy watching the cheesemaking and exploring the store’s sweets and treats.

Can I buy refrigerated items if I’m traveling?

Yes — the shop offers cooler bags and insulated packaging to help keep cheese fresh on the road.