3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket!

Exploring the 3D Printer Factory Tour in Austin: A Hands-On Look at Innovation

If you’re curious about the future of manufacturing or simply want to see cutting-edge technology in action, the 3D Printer Factory Tour at re:3D in Austin offers a fascinating peek behind the scenes. This intimate, small-group experience introduces visitors to the world of large-scale 3D printing, with an emphasis on social impact and eco-friendly practices. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a family with curious kids, or someone interested in sustainable solutions, this tour hits a sweet spot of education, innovation, and fun.

Two things we love about this experience are the genuine accessibility of the tour guides—who clearly know their stuff—and the opportunity to take home a 2-foot-tall rocket as a memorable souvenir. The tour feels personal, with enough time to ask questions and see the machinery up close. A potential consideration is that the tour is relatively short, about 45 minutes to an hour, so it’s best suited for those wanting a quick, insightful look rather than an in-depth workshop. Overall, it’s ideal for curious travelers, families, students, or anyone eager to understand how 3D printing might change the world—especially Austin’s vibrant tech scene.

Key Points

• Small-group setting allows for personalized attention and greater interaction.
• Learn about Gigabot, a large-scale, affordable industrial 3D printer, and see it in action.
• Focus on sustainability, with insights into eco-friendly plastic recycling alternatives.
• Take home a 3D-printed rocket, a fun and tangible souvenir.
• Family-friendly activity that appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Accessible and flexible scheduling, with tours available weekdays during business hours.

What to Expect from the Austin 3D Printing Tour

An Introduction to re:3D and Its Mission

The tour begins at the re:3D facility, located just off Old Bastrop Highway in Austin. You’re greeted by friendly staff eager to share their passion for additive manufacturing. This company, founded by former NASA employees, isn’t just about making big 3D printers; it’s about social innovation—creating affordable, scalable printing solutions that focus on recycling plastics and reducing waste.

From the start, it’s clear that this is more than a factory tour: it’s an exploration of how technology can be harnessed for social good. The guides emphasize their mission to develop eco-friendly alternatives to plastic recycling, which makes the experience particularly meaningful for eco-conscious travelers.

The Heart of the Tour: Gigabot and Large-Scale Printing

One of the most impressive aspects is the Gigabot, a large filament-based 3D printer designed to produce big objects—like furniture prototypes or industrial parts—at a fraction of traditional costs. You’ll see the Gigabot in operation, getting a close-up look at how it works, and perhaps even touch some of the prints made in various materials.

The guides do a great job explaining the mechanics of 3D printing, stripping away any intimidation around the technology. They break down the process into simple steps: designing a digital model, slicing it into layers, and then printing. Seeing this in a real factory makes the process much clearer than any textbook or online video.

The Eco-Friendly Angle and Recycling Innovations

What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on sustainability. re:3D actively works to find alternatives to traditional plastics and promotes recycling efforts. This approach means that much of what they print with is recycled or recyclable plastic filament, making the process more environmentally responsible. It’s a promising glimpse into how future manufacturing could reduce plastic waste worldwide.

The Fun Part: Take-Home Rocket

By the end of the tour, each group of up to 15 people receives a 2-foot-tall rocket, 3D printed during the session. This is more than just a souvenir; it’s a tangible reminder of what’s possible with additive manufacturing. Many reviews highlight how much kids enjoy this part—one reviewer described it as “pretty cool”—and it adds an element of excitement for visitors of all ages.

Timing, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, making it a manageable activity for most schedules. The group size is limited to 15, which fosters a more engaging environment where all questions can be answered. Tours run Monday through Friday, between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM, giving flexibility for planning.

The cost is $22 per group—an excellent value considering the hands-on experience, the educational content, and the souvenir rocket. The tour is suitable for most travelers and is wheelchair accessible, with service animals allowed.

What Past Visitors Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Charlotte, for her ability to explain complex topics simply and entertainingly. One visitor noted, “Charlotte was very knowledgeable and personal. It helped that we had only 5 people though so she could get to know us more.” Others appreciated the friendly atmosphere, calling it “fabulous,” “super interesting,” and “very educational.” The kids particularly enjoyed their rockets and chatting with the guides, making this a memorable family outing.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

When considering the $22 price point, it’s clear that this experience offers a lot of educational value and memorable moments. Seeing the actual machinery that makes large 3D objects work, combined with the chance to ask questions and learn about sustainable plastics, makes this more than just a sightseeing stop—it’s an insight into a rapidly evolving industry.

The tour’s small-group format ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the personalized attention makes the experience more meaningful. Plus, the fact that you leave with a 3D-printed rocket is a delightful bonus, turning a quick visit into a tangible memory.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best suited for tech enthusiasts, families with kids, and anyone interested in sustainability or innovative manufacturing. It’s particularly appealing to those who want a short, engaging, and educational experience without the fuss of a lengthy workshop. For travelers staying in Austin and looking for something different from the usual sightseeing, this offers a fresh perspective on the city’s growing role in high-tech manufacturing.

FAQs About the Austin 3D Printer Factory Tour

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, and many kids enjoy seeing the big printers and taking home their rockets.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 45 minutes to an hour, which makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

Can I book for more than 15 people?
Yes, the tour is designed for groups up to 15, but the organizers are willing to accommodate larger groups if contacted in advance.

What is the cost?
It’s $22 per group, which includes the tour, educational insights, and a take-home 3D-printed rocket.

Are there any accessibility accommodations?
Yes, the facility is accessible, service animals are allowed, and tours are held during weekday business hours.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just bring your curiosity—no special equipment or clothing required.

Final Thoughts

The re:3D factory tour in Austin provides a uniquely accessible window into the fascinating world of large-scale 3D printing. Its focus on social impact and sustainability adds depth that many industrial tours lack. The guides’ passion and knowledge make complex concepts understandable and engaging, whether you’re a techie, a family, or a curious traveler.

For anyone wanting a short but rich glimpse into the future of manufacturing—and to take home a fun rocket—this tour offers excellent value. It’s an ideal blend of education, innovation, and play, all in a friendly, small-group setting.

If you’re in Austin and want to see how technology can be harnessed for good, this experience should definitely be on your list. It’s a refreshing change from traditional sightseeing—a chance to witness the future of eco-friendly manufacturing firsthand.