Summary
Meta Description: Discover the history, activities, and visitor information for the Tillamook Cheese Factory on the Oregon Coast. Join the cheese journey today!
4165 N Hwy 101, Tillamook, OR 97141, USA
Phone: +1 503-815-1300
For many in the Northwest, the Oregon Coast is a favorite vacation destination; however, while the ocean is certainly a highlight of the getaway, it’s not the only one. A stop at Tillamook Cheese Factory can be just as memorable. After all, what is a vacation without delicious cheese?
History
Tillamook’s roots date back to the 1850s when local farmers began raising dairy cows in the lush coastal area. Currently, the Tillamook Cheese Factory still honors its beginnings with a schooner ship as its logo–that’s the Morning Star, Oregon’s first official ship that helped dairy farmers transport their products more quickly than overland routes.
Tillamook is recognized for a variety of dairy products, especially its cheddar cheese, one of the most sought-after items produced at the factory. This delicious cheddar is intertwined with the company’s history, starting in 1894 when Peter McIntosh introduced his cheddar recipe to the area and shared it with the local cheesemakers. This pivotal moment laid the groundwork for the cheddar recipe still utilized today.
By 1909, what began as a network of independent creameries underwent a transformation as several creameries united to form the Tillamook County Creamery Association. This marked the start of Tillamook as a notable brand, paving the way for its subsequent success. In 1947, Tillamook expanded into ice cream production, laying the foundation for a rich variety of flavors that continue to delight consumers. Subsequently, sour cream was introduced in 1993, followed by yogurt in 1994, along with their exclusive three-year-aged vintage white extra sharp cheddar.
Throughout its history spanning more than a century, Tillamook has continually expanded its product line while garnering numerous awards. While it’s convenient to find Tillamook products at grocery stores, experiencing the source firsthand offers an even more enriching experience.
What to Do There
For several decades, Tillamook has featured a visitor center where cheese aficionados can learn about the cheesemaking process. In 2018, the company unveiled a new, larger visitor center, complete with an impressive overhead view of the cheesemaking process.
Visitors can shop at the store and café for an extensive range of cheese options—often available at better prices and in greater varieties than grocery stores. Breakfast and lunch offerings are also available, featuring classic deli-style meals. For those with a sweet tooth, the ice cream counter is a must-visit. Plenty of samples provide a delightful opportunity to explore flavors. While the cheddar is well-loved, guests are encouraged to try other unique cheeses, such as smoked black pepper white cheddar or vintage white cheddar. The visitor center also features various displays designed for learning about cheesemaking. Tours are complimentary and self-guided, allowing for a personal exploration of the process.
How to Visit
The Tillamook Cheese Factory is conveniently located at 4165 Highway 101 N., Tillamook, Oregon 97141.
Many visitors stop by while exploring the Oregon Coast, as Highway 101 serves as the primary route to coastal communities.
The visitor center operates daily, except on Thanksgiving and Christmas. The hours from early November to mid-June are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. During the summer months, the center opens daily at 8 a.m. and remains operational until 8 p.m.
