When you turn into our driveway, you are greeted by a wide open campus that stretches for acres. As you approach the front of our building, you are welcomed by maple trees, picnic tables, Adirondack chairs and our signature rainbow-colored silo and timber frame style-building.
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Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

4.5
·2k reviews·Shelburne, United States

Crafting cuddly companions since 1981, the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory offers tours and the chance to create your own unique bear.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
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When you turn into our driveway, you are greeted by a wide open campus that stretches for acres. As you approach the front of our building, you are welcomed by maple trees, picnic tables, Adirondack chairs and our signature rainbow-colored silo and timber frame style-building.

Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Crafting cuddly companions since 1981, the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory offers tours and the chance to create your own unique bear.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"The tour was magical, and creating our own teddy bear was an unforgettable experience!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book tours ahead of time

Secure your spot for the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory tour, especially during busy periods.

🧸 Create your own bear

The 'Make Your Own Bear' experience is a highlight for many visitors.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Factory Tour

The Factory Tour

Assembly Line

Witness the magic of teddy bear creation, from stuffing to stitching. A heartwarming journey for all ages!

Make Your Own Bear

Make Your Own Bear

Bear Shop

Design and build your personalized teddy bear, a truly unique souvenir to cherish.

The Bear Shop

The Bear Shop

Retail Store

Explore a vast collection of handcrafted teddy bears and unique gifts, perfect for any occasion.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

While walk-ins are sometimes possible, booking your Vermont Teddy Bear Factory tour ahead of time is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or holidays. This ensures you secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Check their website for available times and consider special workshops like the Holiday Hugs event. TikTok

Embrace the "Build-a-Bear" Experience

The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory offers more than just a tour; you can create your own unique bear! This interactive experience is a highlight for many, allowing you to stuff, stitch, and name your new furry friend. It's a memorable takeaway, perfect for all ages. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal
Crowd
Low
When
Holiday season workshops
Why
Festive fun & unique crafts
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Vermont Teddy Bear’s factory tour is a must for families visiting Vermont, but it’s also a treat for locals. From the Cub Project to great events, it’s worth checking out! 🧸 The company’s Vermont Cub Project allows every Vermonter four years of age to come to the Bear Shop in Shelburne and make a FREE best friend. Here is how: 📍Visit the Bear Shop with your four-year-old. Address: 6655 Shelbur...
findandgoseek
16 likes • 1.6K views

🎯 Book tours ahead of time

Secure your spot for the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory tour, especially during busy periods. TikTok

🧸 Create your own bear

The 'Make Your Own Bear' experience is a highlight for many visitors. InstagramReddit

We so enjoyed a tour of the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory — a place that started with John Sortino selling bears out of the back of his car and grew into a full-on American classic. All American-made, the factory produces as many as 500,000 bears a year!!! The tour gave us an chance to see how these bears are stitched, stuffed, and brought to life. It’s fun, it’s quirky, and it’s 100% made in the US...
jennyandjasonrunusa
132 likes • 3.7K views
Teddy Bear Factory @vermonttourism . . #halloween #halloweencostume #vermont #teddybearvermont #teddybear #teddybearbabyshower #teddybears #teddybeardog #teddybearlove #teddybearpuppy #teddybearcake #ted #travelphotography #travel #kids #nyc
loshali
20 likes • 798 views

🚗 Rainy day adventure

A perfect indoor activity for a Vermont road trip, especially on a rainy day. Instagram

🎁 Great for gifts

Find unique, high-quality teddy bears perfect for newborns or special occasions. Reddit

🎄🐻 Holiday Hugs Workshop 🐻🎄 Make holiday magic together at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory! ✨ Join us for a cozy, joy-filled day of crafting, story time, sweet treats, and building your very own cuddly friend — just in time for the season of giving. ❤️ Spots are limited and filling fast, so grab your little elves and make a memory that’s merry, magical, and oh-so-huggable. 🎁 👉 Reserve your tick...
vtteddybear
48 likes • 791 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book tours ahead of time

Secure your spot for the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory tour, especially during busy periods. TikTok

🧸 Create your own bear

The 'Make Your Own Bear' experience is a highlight for many visitors. InstagramReddit

🚗 Rainy day adventure

A perfect indoor activity for a Vermont road trip, especially on a rainy day. Instagram

🎁 Great for gifts

Find unique, high-quality teddy bears perfect for newborns or special occasions. Reddit

✨ Kid-friendly fun

While geared towards children, adults find the tour magical too! InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory for its engaging tours and the heartwarming 'Make Your Own Bear' experience. The staff are frequently highlighted for their friendliness and enthusiasm, making the visit magical for both children and adults. While the tour is relatively short, the overall experience is highly positive, with many leaving with a custom-made bear and fond memories.

"Wife and I went as part of our rainy day Vermont tour.

Location is very cool from the outside and it extends into all corners of the facility. They are passionate about their product and mission !

Our tour guide was excellent. Very friendly, happy to answer questions, and didnt miss a beat with kids being kids.

Tour itself doesnt take long but its neat to see the process and hear the history.

We spent some time in the shop and bought some bears to go for our friends with a new born, as well as a Pumpkin Spice bear for my wife lol.

If you are in the area, I would defintely stop especially if you have kids. They and you will enjoy it."

Nick v

"Amazing experience!! My wife and I went together while in Vermont for our Honeymoon and while it was definitely more child oriented, the tour (done by Lienne, who was really amazing and energetic) was still magical. Afterwards, we made our own teddy bear with the help of Cole, who was an absolutely wonderful person. We left with memories and a teddy that was uniquely ours."

Nick (NickoSwavay)

"My husband took me here as a surprise on our anniversary because I love stuffed animals. The tour and shop were soo cute. They have so many different bears and stuffed animals. They’re very well-made and high quality. We got a bear, and matching t-shirts with the bear head logo on them."

K

What People Like

Engaging and friendly tours
Make Your Own Bear experience
High-quality, guaranteed bears

What People Dislike

Tour can be short

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is located at 1231 Williston Rd, Shelburne, VT 05482. It's a scenic drive through Vermont, and many visitors combine it with other local attractions. TikTokInstagram

Yes, ample parking is available on-site for visitors. You can easily park your car and head straight into the factory and store. Instagram

While public transportation options are limited in this area of Vermont, many visitors opt for car rentals or organized tours that include the factory. Instagram

The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is a short drive from Burlington, Vermont, typically about 15-20 minutes, making it an easy addition to a Burlington itinerary. Instagram

Absolutely! The factory is close to the Ben & Jerry's Factory, Shelburne Museum, and the picturesque Lake Champlain, offering a full day of exploration. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tour prices can vary, but it's generally an affordable experience. It's best to check the official Vermont Teddy Bear website for the most current pricing and any available discounts or coupons. TikTok

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times or special events like holiday workshops, to guarantee your spot. TikTokInstagram

Operating hours can change seasonally. Always check the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory's official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. TikTok

The Vermont Cub Project offers free bears to Vermonters aged four, but this requires a visit to the Bear Shop. General tours and bear-making experiences have associated costs. TikTok

Yes, the Bear Shop is open to the public, allowing you to browse and purchase teddy bears and other merchandise even if you don't take the factory tour. Instagram

🎫 🐻 Onsite Experience

The tour guides you through the process of how teddy bears are made, from stuffing to stitching, with engaging stories and a look at the history of the company. It's a fun, interactive experience for all ages. InstagramReddit

Yes, the 'Make Your Own Bear' experience is a popular activity where you can stuff, stitch, and personalize your very own teddy bear to take home. InstagramReddit

The factory is very family-friendly and especially engaging for children. The interactive tour and the 'Make Your Own Bear' activity are big hits with kids. TikTokInstagram

The tour itself is relatively short, typically lasting around 30-45 minutes, but you can easily spend more time browsing the shop or creating your own bear. Reddit

The factory hosts various special events throughout the year, including holiday workshops like the 'Holiday Hugs Workshop,' which often include crafting, story time, and bear-making. TikTok

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You can find a wide variety of handcrafted teddy bears, clothing for bears, accessories, and other unique Vermont-made gifts in their extensive Bear Shop. Instagram

Yes, the bears are known for their high quality and are guaranteed for life, meaning they can be repaired or replaced if they get damaged. Instagram

Absolutely! The shop often features seasonal and holiday-themed bears, such as the 'Pumpkin Spice bear' mentioned by visitors, making them perfect for timely gifts. Reddit

It's worth checking online for 'Vermont Teddy Bear Factory coupon' deals or special offers, especially if you plan to make a purchase. TikTok

Yes, the Bear Shop offers a delightful selection of outfits and accessories to dress up your new teddy bear, adding to the fun of ownership. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is a dream destination for families! The interactive factory tour is a hit, with guides who make learning about bear-making fun and engaging for little ones. TikTok The highlight for many kids is the 'Make Your Own Bear' experience, where they get to stuff, stitch, and name their very own furry friend. It’s a truly memorable activity that results in a cherished keepsake. InstagramReddit

Consider booking a spot in one of their special workshops, like the 'Holiday Hugs Workshop,' for an extra dose of festive fun with crafts and story time. TikTok It's also a fantastic rainy-day activity that keeps everyone entertained and happy. Instagram Don't forget to explore the Bear Shop for a wide selection of bears and gifts that are perfect for little hands. Instagram

couples

Even though it's often seen as a family spot, the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory offers a charming and unique experience for couples too. The factory tour provides a delightful glimpse into American craftsmanship, and the history behind the company is quite interesting. InstagramReddit

The 'Make Your Own Bear' activity can be a fun and sentimental way for couples to create a shared memento of their trip. Imagine designing a bear together that symbolizes your relationship! InstagramReddit Afterward, browse the Bear Shop for high-quality, handcrafted bears that make for thoughtful gifts for each other or for friends and family back home. Instagram

Budget Travelers

While the 'Make Your Own Bear' experience and purchases in the shop will incur costs, the factory tour itself is often quite affordable and offers significant value. TikTok It's a great way to experience a unique Vermont attraction without breaking the bank. Instagram

Look for potential coupons or discounts online before your visit to save on tours or merchandise. TikTok Even if you don't purchase a bear, the tour provides an entertaining and educational experience that's well worth the admission fee. Consider it a worthwhile investment for a memorable activity. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Craftsmanship of Vermont Teddy Bears

The Vermont Teddy Bear Company has a charming origin story, starting with John Sortino selling bears from his car. Today, it's a significant American brand, producing up to 500,000 bears annually, all made in the USA. Instagram The company prides itself on the quality and craftsmanship of its bears, ensuring each one is made with care and attention to detail. This dedication to traditional methods, combined with a touch of whimsy, is what makes a Vermont Teddy Bear so special. Visitors often remark on the passion the staff has for their product and mission. Reddit

Each bear is designed to be a lifelong companion. The lifetime guarantee offered by the Vermont Teddy Bear Company is a testament to their confidence in the durability and quality of their creations. Whether it's a classic design or a seasonal special, the bears are crafted to withstand years of hugs and adventures. This commitment to excellence is evident throughout the factory tour, where you can see the meticulous process firsthand. Instagram

Experiencing the 'Make Your Own Bear' Workshop

One of the most engaging aspects of visiting the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is the opportunity to create your own personalized teddy bear. This interactive experience allows visitors to choose their bear, stuff it to their desired firmness, stitch it closed, and even give it a special name. It's a hands-on activity that brings a unique sense of ownership and connection to the bear. InstagramReddit

This process is particularly magical for children, turning a simple visit into an unforgettable memory. The staff are on hand to guide you through each step, making it easy and fun for everyone. The result is a one-of-a-kind teddy bear that you've helped bring to life, a perfect souvenir that carries the spirit of Vermont with it. Many visitors cherish these custom-made bears as much as any other memento. Instagram

Vermont Teddy Bear Factory as a Family Destination

The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is a highly recommended destination for families visiting Vermont. The factory tour is designed to be engaging for all ages, with enthusiastic guides who can captivate both children and adults. It's a fantastic way to introduce kids to the concept of how things are made and the joy of a well-loved toy. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the tour, the 'Make Your Own Bear' experience is a major draw for families. It provides a creative outlet and results in a tangible, personalized souvenir that children will treasure. The factory also hosts special events, like the 'Holiday Hugs Workshop,' which offer themed activities, story times, and crafting, making it a perfect spot for seasonal family fun. TikTok It's often cited as a great option for a rainy day adventure, ensuring the fun continues regardless of the weather. Instagram

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