Union Star Cheese Factory Tour — Fremont (Zittau), Wisconsin

Discover the Union Star Cheese Factory Tour in Wisconsin

Step into one of Wisconsin’s classic family-owned cheese factories at Union Star Cheese Factory in the Zittau area near Fremont. Visitors get an up-close look at small-batch cheesemaking as it’s been practiced for generations—complete with curd stirring, vat viewing, and fresh cheese sampling.
Why it’s special:
Union Star is one of the few remaining traditional cheese factories where you can watch real cheesemakers at work in the early morning, producing fresh curds daily in a cozy, old-school setting.

History/Story of Union Star Cheese Factory

Founded in 1906, Union Star began as a rural community cheese plant serving local dairy farms. Over the years, it has grown into a beloved Wisconsin heritage creamery known for its squeaky curds, cheddar, Colby, brick, and specialty cheeses—all made by hand using time-honored techniques.

What You’ll See & Do at Union Star Cheese Factory

• Watch cheesemakers fill, stir, cut, and drain fresh cheese curds

• See traditional open vats and equipment used in small-batch production

• Learn how milk becomes curds, blocks, and wheels

• Sample warm curds right out of the vat on production days

• Shop for freshly made curds, blocks of cheese, and specialty Wisconsin dairy items

• Explore displays about the factory’s history and cheesemaking process

Hands-On Elements: Cheese tasting, curd sampling, opportunities to ask cheesemakers questions.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in visitor viewing areas.
Souvenirs & Extras: Cheese curds, artisan cheese, spreads, snacks, apparel, and gift boxes.

Pricing of the Union Star Cheese Factory Tour

• Self-Guided Tour & Viewing: Free

• Guided “Make Cheese With Us” Experience: $3 per person

• Children under 5: Free

(Tour availability varies; morning visits recommended for live cheesemaking.)

Practical Info for Visiting Union Star Cheese Factory

Duration: 20–45 minutes, depending on production activity
Format: Self-guided or short guided tour (when staff available)
Schedule & Seasonality: Cheesemaking typically visible early mornings, Monday–Saturday
Working Hours: Typically 6:00 AM–3:00 PM; best viewing 6:00 AM–10:00 AM
Audience: Families, dairy lovers, school groups, tourists, cheese enthusiasts
Accessibility: Store and viewing area accessible; production floor restricted
Safety & Restrictions:

• No entry onto production floor

• Children must be supervised
  Languages: English
  Group & School Visits: Groups welcome; call ahead to schedule
  What to Bring/Wear: Casual clothing, comfortable shoes, cooler for cheese purchases
  Facilities: Retail shop, tasting area, parking
  Closures & Downtime: Closed Sundays; production varies by day; early arrivals recommended

Nearby

• Weyauwega Lake – recreation and fishing

• Mosquito Hill Nature Center – trails and wildlife

• Fremont area restaurants & cafés

FAQs About Visiting Union Star Cheese Factory

When is the best time to see live cheesemaking?
Early morning—typically between 6 AM and 10 AM.

Do I need a reservation?
No reservations required for regular visits; groups should call ahead.

Can kids watch the cheesemaking?
Yes—children are welcome with supervision.

Are there free samples?
Yes—fresh curd samples are often available in the shop.

Can I buy cheese to take home?
Absolutely—the retail shop offers curds, blocks, spreads, and specialty Wisconsin cheeses.