No trip to Vermont is complete without a stop at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, this colorful spot is equal parts whimsical and delicious—a true pilgrimage site for ice cream lovers.

Start your visit with the guided factory tour (tickets can and should be reserved in advance). It’s short and sweet, about 30 minutes, but packed with fun. You’ll learn the story of how two friends, Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, turned a $5 correspondence course in ice cream making into a worldwide brand. From there, you peek into the production floor, watch the magic happen, and best of all—end with a free sample of the flavor of the day!

After the tour, head straight to the on-site Scoop Shop. This isn’t your average ice cream counter—you’ll often find flavors here that aren’t available anywhere else. Whether you stick with a classic like Cherry Garcia or try something exclusive, every bite tastes better under the Vermont sky. Pro tip: the waffle cones are worth the splurge.

Of course, there’s also a gift shop brimming with merch. From tie-dye shirts to cow-themed souvenirs to pints to-go, the gift shop has that Ben & Jerry’s souvenir you need. If you’re traveling, maybe skip stocking up on frozen pints, but the quirky t-shirts and mugs make great mementos. You may even find a new ornament for your Christmas tree! 

One of the quirkiest and most beloved parts of the visit is the Flavor Graveyard. Just a short walk up the hill and near the parking lot, this tongue-in-cheek “cemetery” honors retired flavors with real headstones. Each one has a witty epitaph, making it equal parts funny and nostalgic.

Even if you’re not the world’s biggest ice cream fan, the Ben & Jerry’s Factory is just pure fun. The mix of history, humor, and plenty of ice cream makes it an easy and joyful detour if you’re exploring Vermont. Plus, the mountain backdrop is picture-perfect year-round.