3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket!

Discovering re:3D’s 3D Printer Factory Tour and the 2-Foot Tall Rocket

If you’re curious about the future of manufacturing or just love seeing cool tech in action, this 3D Printer Factory Tour in Austin could be a real highlight. The experience offers a peek behind the scenes of a working 3D printing studio, founded by former NASA engineers, and features a large-scale Gigabot printer that’s making waves in eco-friendly manufacturing. Plus, each group gets to take home a tiny but impressive 2-foot-tall rocket—a unique souvenir that’s both fun and educational.

What we really love about this tour is how approachable and informative it is, even if you’re new to 3D printing. The guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share what’s happening in additive manufacturing, especially in ways that help reduce plastic waste. The tour’s small-group setting makes it feel personal and engaging, perfect for those who prefer quality over quantity. But, a quick heads-up: at just around 45 minutes to an hour, it’s not a long commitment, so if you’re craving a deep dive into the intricacies of 3D tech, this might be more of an introduction than a comprehensive workshop.

This experience is especially well-suited for families, tech enthusiasts, and eco-conscious travelers. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll likely enjoy the rocket and the playful, hands-on vibe. For adults, it’s a chance to see cutting-edge innovation up close without feeling overwhelmed by technical jargon. Keep in mind, the tour is limited to 15 people, which helps keep things intimate but might require booking ahead during busy times.

Key Points

• Small-group tour offers a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides.
• Focus on eco-friendly plastic recycling highlights emerging sustainable practices.
• Large-scale Gigabot 3D printer demonstrates impressive industrial capabilities.
• Take-home 3D-printed rocket makes for a memorable souvenir.
• Flexible scheduling between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM accommodates most plans.
• Affordable price point at $22 per group, offering solid value for the experience.

What to Expect During the Tour

Start at re:3D

The tour begins at the company’s facility in Austin—an unassuming spot that hides some pretty incredible technology. As you step inside, you’ll see all kinds of 3D prints in different sizes and materials, which really shows the versatility of additive manufacturing. The folks here produce one of their flagship products, the Gigabot, a large-format, industrial-grade 3D printer that’s designed to be affordable and efficient.

Tour guides like Charlotte, who’s been praised for her knowledge and engaging personality, make all the difference. She’ll walk you through how the company’s founders, with NASA backgrounds, started re:3D to push the boundaries of what’s possible with 3D printing, especially in terms of sustainability. One of the key themes is finding alternatives to recycling plastics—a challenge that the company is actively tackling.

Learning about Gigabot

A major highlight is seeing the Gigabot in action. It’s a massive machine that can print with various filament types, and it makes you realize how this technology could scale for larger, eco-friendly projects. The guides explain how this printer differs from smaller desktop models, emphasizing its potential for industrial use and reducing waste by printing in larger sizes.

The Eco-Friendly Mission

Throughout your visit, you’ll hear how re:3D is committed to sustainable practices. They’re not just making cool toys or prototypes—they’re working on solutions that could help reduce plastic pollution. It’s inspiring to see a small company making a big impact, and the guides do a solid job of explaining the social mission behind their work.

Fun and Hands-On

The tour isn’t just about listening; it’s about experiencing. You’ll get to touch and feel different 3D prints, from miniature objects to larger items. Plus, each group of up to 15 people receives a 3D-printed rocket as a souvenir, which adds a tangible element to the visit. Several reviews mention how much kids (and adults) love this part—one reviewer even noted that their grandson was “really into talking about the 3D printing world.”

Meeting the Team and Seeing the Tech

Guides are eager to answer questions, and many visitors praise their friendly, approachable manner. One reviewer highlighted how Charlotte’s expertise made the tour both entertaining and informative. You’ll see the very machines that are used in production, and if you’re lucky, you might even get a quick peek at the ongoing projects that combine 3D printing with recycling plastics.

The Practical Side: Details You’ll Want to Know

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, making it a perfect quick activity—especially in a city like Austin packed with things to do. The small group size (up to 15 people) helps keep things intimate, ensuring you can easily ask questions and get personalized attention.

Price and Value

At $22 per group, the cost is quite reasonable considering the quality of the experience. You’re not just watching a presentation; you’re seeing real machinery, interacting with knowledgeable guides, and taking home a 3D-printed rocket. It’s an affordable way to get an inside look at cutting-edge manufacturing in action.

Accessibility and Convenience

Located at 1201 Old Bastrop Hwy, the tour is near public transit options, and most travelers will find it easy to access. The venue welcomes service animals, adding to its inclusivity. The flexible schedule from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM makes it easy to fit into most itineraries.

Considerations

While the tour is informative and fun, it’s primarily a visual and tactile experience—it’s not a technical deep dive. If you’re looking for detailed instruction or hands-on building, this might not satisfy that craving. Also, since it’s a factory setting, expect some areas to be industrial and possibly noisy.

What Reviewers Say

The overall ratings of 4.9 out of 5 reflect high satisfaction among past visitors. One reviewer loved how Charlotte was able to answer all questions and made the experience entertaining. Another appreciated the fabulous tour and learned “loads about the company and the world of 3D printing and recycling plastics.” Kids particularly enjoyed the souvenir rockets, and many remarked on how the tour sparked interest in technology and sustainability.

People also pointed out how educational and memorable the visit was, with one saying their grandson really enjoyed talking about the technology afterward. Paddy, the dog, even got a mention for adding some fun to the guide’s presentation.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This 3D Printer Factory Tour in Austin hits a lot of sweet spots for travelers curious about innovation, sustainability, and technology. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a short, engaging experience that’s both educational and fun—especially if you’re traveling with kids, teenagers, or anyone interested in science and engineering. The small-group format makes it personal, and the affordable price makes it accessible.

If you’re a tech enthusiast wanting a behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge machinery, or a sustainability supporter interested in how plastics can be repurposed through 3D printing, this tour will likely leave you inspired. It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate interactive experiences and unique souvenirs, like your own 3D-printed rocket.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for an in-depth technical workshop or a lengthy visit, this might feel a bit light. It’s a quick introduction, but one that leaves a lasting impression—especially seeing the large Gigabot in action and getting your very own rocket.

In all, it’s a well-rounded, practical, and genuinely interesting way to spend a little time learning about an innovative industry in Austin, Texas.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids enjoy the experience, especially the take-home rocket and the tactile exploration of 3D prints. It’s generally family-friendly, but because it’s a factory setting, supervision is recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, making it a quick but memorable activity.

What is the cost of the tour?
The cost is $22 per group for up to 15 people. It’s quite affordable for what you get—an inside look at a working 3D printing studio and a souvenir rocket.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially because the small-group size means spots fill up quickly. Tours are available Monday to Friday between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted at the venue.

What if the weather is bad?
Since it’s an indoor factory tour, weather doesn’t impact the experience. You’ll be indoors for the duration.

Whether you’re into tech, eager to see sustainable solutions, or just looking for a fun, informative activity in Austin, this re:3D factory tour offers a neat look at the future of manufacturing—plus a rocket to take home.