American Whistle Corporation
Discover the only metal whistle factory in the USA! Experience a unique tour and even create your own custom whistle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focused tours
American Whistle Corporation
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more focused tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the only metal whistle factory in the USA! Experience a unique tour and even create your own custom whistle.
"A truly unique and educational experience, perfect for families and anyone interested in American manufacturing!"
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Tours are popular! Secure your spot online before you go to avoid disappointment.
👂 Be Prepared for Noise
It's a whistle factory! Expect loud sounds. Consider ear protection for sensitive individuals.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Whistle Factory Tour
Witness the creation of the only metal whistles made in the USA. Engaging and informative for all ages.
Make Your Own Whistle
For a small fee, customize and create your very own colorful whistle to take home.
See American Manufacturing
Experience a classic production facility and learn about American industry firsthand.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Whistle Adventure
Prepare for the Sound
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Tours are popular! Secure your spot online before you go to avoid disappointment.
👂 Be Prepared for Noise
It's a whistle factory! Expect loud sounds. Consider ear protection for sensitive individuals.
🎨 Customize Your Whistle
For a small extra charge, make your own unique, colorful whistle to keep!
🧒 Kid-Friendly Fun
The tour is great for kids, especially those who love 'How It's Made' style content.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Tours are popular! Secure your spot online before you go to avoid disappointment.
👂 Be Prepared for Noise
It's a whistle factory! Expect loud sounds. Consider ear protection for sensitive individuals.
🎨 Customize Your Whistle
For a small extra charge, make your own unique, colorful whistle to keep!
🧒 Kid-Friendly Fun
The tour is great for kids, especially those who love 'How It's Made' style content.
🚗 Easy to Find
Located in Columbus, OH, it's a unique stop for anyone in the area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the American Whistle Corporation for its unique insight into American manufacturing, with engaging tours and the fun option to create a custom whistle. However, some find the tour duration challenging for very young children, and a few have noted instances of abrupt staff interactions regarding noise levels.
"In town for work. Had some free time and was looking for something to do. Never would have guessed that the only metal whistle factory in the US was here. The factory was smaller then I thought for how many whistle they make a year. $10 for the tour. You do need to check the website and get tickets in advance. Super kid friendly tour. The guy giving to tours was did a great job. For three bucks they let you make your own custom whistle. If you’re in the area and looking to do something different and unique you should definitely stop in."
Geoff Andrews
"We were very excited to tour the factory and the guy that led the tour was very good and entertaining. Everything was good until the end after the kids made their own whistles. What do kids do when they get a whistle? They blow it and were having fun until the guy checking people out at the cash register screamed at them to stop. Very rude and unprofessional! I realize it gets a little loud (it is a whistle factory…). So, if you go, for goodness sake, don’t blow your whistle inside the whistle factory!"
John
"Had no idea that the only metal whistles made in the USA were made right here in Columbus. Great tour guide and you get a free plastic whistle with the tour. For a small upcharge you can also make your own colorful whistle. Worth going to see"
Terri Napletana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The American Whistle Corporation is located in Columbus, Ohio. It's a unique manufacturing facility that's easily accessible for a day trip or a stop while in the area.
Yes, parking is typically available at the facility. It's recommended to check their official website for any specific parking instructions or restrictions before your visit.
Information on public transport accessibility can vary. It's best to check local Columbus public transport routes and schedules to see if there are convenient options to reach the American Whistle Corporation.
The nearest major airport is John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), which is a short drive from the facility, making it convenient for travelers flying in.
Absolutely! If you're on a road trip through Ohio, the American Whistle Corporation offers a unique and memorable stop that breaks up the journey with a glimpse into American manufacturing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours at the American Whistle Corporation typically cost around $10 per person. This price often includes a free plastic whistle.
Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance through their website. Tours can fill up, especially for popular times or group visits.
Tour hours can vary, so it's essential to check the official American Whistle Corporation website for the most up-to-date schedule. They typically operate during business hours on weekdays.
Yes, for a small additional fee (around $3), you can create and take home your own custom-colored whistle. This is a popular activity, especially for children.
Discounts may be available for certain groups, such as students or large parties. It's best to inquire directly with the American Whistle Corporation or check their website for any advertised promotions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The tour provides a fascinating look at the manufacturing process of metal whistles, the only ones made in the USA. Guides are often described as good and entertaining, making it informative for adults and older children. +1
While kids generally enjoy seeing the machines, the tour can be long (about an hour) and involves a lot of standing and looking. Toddlers might struggle with the lack of movement and constant noise.
As it's a working factory, expect significant noise from the machinery. Some visitors have noted that being asked not to blow whistles inside the factory was met with a rude response.
The tour generally lasts about an hour. This duration might be challenging for very young children who have difficulty staying still for extended periods.
The main interactive element is the option to create your own custom whistle for an additional fee. The tour itself is more observational, focusing on the machinery and process.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to ask your tour guide at the beginning of the tour if photos are permitted. Some areas might have restrictions due to the active machinery.
Focus on capturing the unique machinery and the process of whistle making. The area where you can make your own whistle might also offer fun photo opportunities.
While not explicitly stated, the opportunity to create your own whistle is a memorable experience that many visitors capture. The overall industrial setting also provides a unique backdrop.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities would be sufficient, as factory lighting can sometimes be dim. If you have a camera with a good zoom, it might help capture details from a distance.
Factory lighting can be functional rather than aesthetic. Be prepared for potentially uneven lighting and consider using your phone's night mode or a camera with good ISO performance if needed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations: Book tickets in advance, as tours can fill up. Consider bringing ear protection for younger or more sensitive children due to the factory noise. The make-your-own-whistle option is a must-do for a fun, personalized souvenir. Be aware that the tour is about an hour long and involves standing, which might be challenging for very young toddlers.
🏭 Manufacturing Enthusiasts
Highlights for enthusiasts: Pay close attention to the details of the machinery and the quality control aspects. The tour guide's explanations of the historical significance and the company's commitment to domestic production are particularly noteworthy. Don't miss the chance to ask questions about the manufacturing techniques.
🎁 Souvenir Hunters
Even if you don't opt for the custom whistle, the tour itself provides a free plastic whistle, which is a fun token. These whistles are not just toys; they represent a piece of American craftsmanship and industrial heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Whistle Making
During the tour, you'll get to see the various stages of whistle creation, from raw materials to the finished product. The guides are knowledgeable and aim to make the experience both educational and entertaining, often sharing anecdotes and insights into the history of the company. It's a chance to appreciate the dedication and precision that goes into each whistle.
For those looking for a more hands-on experience, the option to create your own custom whistle is a highlight. For a small fee, you can choose colors and personalize a whistle to take home as a unique souvenir. This interactive element is particularly popular with families and adds a fun, tangible takeaway from the visit.
Navigating the Tour with Children
However, it's important to manage expectations for very young children. The tour lasts about an hour and involves a lot of standing and observing, with limited opportunities for movement. The constant noise of the factory, while exciting for some, can be overwhelming for toddlers or very young kids who may struggle to stay focused or entertained for the entire duration.
To make the experience smoother for families, consider bringing ear protection for sensitive children. Also, preparing them beforehand about what they will see and hear can help. The opportunity to make their own whistle is a great way to keep them engaged and provide a memorable souvenir.
Beyond the Tour: A Unique Stop
The experience is often described as unique and different, making it a worthwhile stop for those looking for something beyond typical tourist attractions. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the American Whistle Corporation provides an insightful glimpse into a specialized industry. The friendly staff and the opportunity to learn about a niche but important product contribute to a positive overall experience.
For those who enjoy learning about manufacturing processes or are looking for a quirky and educational outing, this factory is a gem. It’s a reminder of the ingenuity and dedication that drives American businesses.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit