Cedar Grove Cheese Tour — Plain, Wisconsin

Discover the Cedar Grove Cheese Tour in Wisconsin

Visit Cedar Grove Cheese in Plain, Wisconsin, for a behind-the-scenes look at artisan cheese production in one of the state’s most environmentally pioneering creameries. Guests can observe real-time cheesemaking through an overhead viewing hall, learn how curds and wheels are crafted, and see sustainable wastewater treatment in action.
Why it’s special:
Cedar Grove Cheese was the first U.S. cheese plant to eliminate wastewater impacts on nearby streams, using its innovative “Living Machine” greenhouse that purifies water using natural ecosystems. It’s a unique blend of traditional Wisconsin cheesemaking and cutting-edge sustainability.

History/Story of Cedar Grove Cheese

Founded in 1908, Cedar Grove Cheese has been producing artisan cheeses for more than a century using milk from local Wisconsin dairy farms. The creamery is known for its commitment to pure, hormone-free dairy and environmentally responsible production. In 1993, it became a national sustainability leader by adopting an eco-friendly water purification system—long before green manufacturing became mainstream.

What You’ll See & Do at the Cedar Grove Cheese Tour

• Watch cheesemakers at work through a large viewing hall above the production floor

• Learn how milk is transformed into curds, wheels, and specialty cheeses

• See the innovative “Living Machine” greenhouse, where plants naturally clean wastewater

• Explore the small museum-style displays explaining the history of cheesemaking in Wisconsin

• Visit the on-site shop to taste and purchase fresh cheese straight from the creamery

Hands-On Elements: Sample cheeses in the retail shop; observe curd production up close through viewing windows.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in the visitor areas and greenhouse; no photography on the production floor.
Souvenirs & Extras: Fresh cheese curds, aged cheeses, local products, cheese gift boxes, seasonal specialties.

Pricing of the Cedar Grove Cheese Tour

• Viewing hall access: Free

• Optional guided greenhouse (“Living Machine”) tour: Often free; call ahead for availability

• Cheese samples and purchases available in the shop

Practical Info for Visiting Cedar Grove Cheese

Duration: 15–30 minutes depending on production activity
Format: Self-guided viewing hall with optional guided elements
Schedule & Seasonality: Cheesemaking typically visible Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–Noon
Working Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–4:00 PM; Saturday 8:00 AM–12:00 PM
Audience: Families, school groups, food enthusiasts, eco-tourists
Accessibility: Viewing hall and shop are accessible; greenhouse includes gravel paths
Safety & Restrictions: No production-floor entry; children must be supervised
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Groups welcome; call ahead for scheduling or educational tours
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes; curiosity for cheese and sustainability
Facilities: Restrooms, gift shop, greenhouse viewing, parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed Sundays and major holidays; cheesemaking schedule may vary

Nearby

• Spring Green – home to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin (15 minutes away)

• House on the Rock – iconic architectural attraction (20 minutes away)

• Natural Bridge State Park – scenic hikes and sandstone formations

FAQs About Visiting Cedar Grove Cheese

Can I watch cheesemaking happening live?
Yes—production is typically visible weekday mornings from the viewing hall.

Are tours guided or self-guided?
Most visits are self-guided, but guided greenhouse tours may be available upon request.

Can kids visit the creamery?
Absolutely—children are welcome and often enjoy watching cheese curds being made.

What is the “Living Machine”?
It’s a unique greenhouse system that purifies wastewater using plants, microbes, and natural filtration.

Is the shop open even if cheesemaking isn’t happening?
Yes—the shop maintains full hours even when production is paused.