American Whistle Corporation Tour — Columbus, Ohio

Discover the American Whistle Corporation Tour in Ohio

Visit the only manufacturer in the United States dedicated exclusively to producing metal whistles: the American Whistle Corporation in Columbus. This engaging tour reveals how simple brass becomes precision-made whistles used by schools, police forces, coaches, safety organizations and customers nationwide. Visitors can watch machines cut, stamp, assemble and polish whistles and learn how a small but vital product is made from start to finish.

Why it’s special:
American Whistle Corporation is the only metal whistle factory in the U.S., making this tour a rare industrial experience. The tour blends hands-on learning, live demonstrations and an entertaining look at a niche but essential manufacturing process.

History/Story of American Whistle Corporation

Founded in 1956, American Whistle Corporation began as a small specialty manufacturer supplying high-quality metal whistles to law enforcement and safety professionals. Over the decades, the company refined its designs and equipment to meet national demand while remaining a locally owned business. Today, it continues producing millions of whistles each year from its Columbus facility.

What You’ll See & Do at the American Whistle Corporation Tour

• Watch raw brass coils transform into whistle parts through cutting and stamping machines

• See how whistles are assembled, soldered and polished to a mirror finish

• Learn how pea whistles create sound and how tolerances affect tone

• Observe quality-control stations and packaging processes

• Take home a complimentary whistle as a souvenir

Hands-On Elements: Opportunities to handle whistle components, interactive demonstrations and Q&A with factory staff.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in most spaces; filming may be limited near machinery.
Souvenirs & Extras: Souvenir whistles, specialty designs, personalized whistles, branded merchandise.

Pricing of the American Whistle Corporation Tour

• General tour: Approximately $5–$7 per person

• Complimentary whistle included

• Group tours (10+ participants) available by reservation

Practical Info for Visiting American Whistle Corporation

Duration: 45 minutes
Format: Guided factory tour with live demonstration
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered Monday–Friday by reservation
Working Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (tour windows vary by day)
Audience: Families, school groups, scout troops, manufacturing fans, educators
Accessibility: Facility is accessible for most visitors; some narrow pathways near machines
Safety & Restrictions: Closed-toe shoes recommended; children welcome with supervision
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Popular for school groups; advance scheduling required
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes; cameras allowed in designated areas
Facilities: Visitor lobby, display area, restrooms, parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed weekends and major holidays
Nearby:

• Ohio State University area attractions

• Downtown Columbus museums and restaurants

• Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

FAQs About Visiting American Whistle Corporation

Do I need to schedule in advance?
Yes—tours are by reservation only and fill quickly during school season.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes—the tour is very kid-friendly, especially for educational groups, but children must remain with adults.

Will I see active whistle production?
Yes—machines typically run during tours, allowing visitors to see live stamping, soldering and polishing.

Do I get a free whistle?
Yes—each visitor receives a metal whistle as part of the tour.

Is the factory loud?
Some areas can be loud due to stamping equipment; ear protection may be offered if needed.