Discovering the Future of Manufacturing at re:3D’s 3D Printer Factory Tour
If you’re curious about how 3D printing is shaping tomorrow’s manufacturing landscape, then the re:3D factory tour in Austin might just be a highlight of your trip. This small-group, interactive experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at a vibrant, innovative studio founded by former NASA engineers, blending cutting-edge technology with a social mission to promote eco-friendly plastics recycling. For a modest fee of $22 per group, you get not only a fascinating glimpse into large-scale additive manufacturing but also a memorable souvenir—a 2-foot-tall rocket you can take home.
What we love about this experience are the personalized guides who make complex technology accessible and engaging, and the chance to see Gigabot, the world’s first affordable, industrial 3D printer capable of handling large projects. The only potential downside is that it’s a relatively short tour—around 45 minutes to an hour—so it’s best suited for those with a genuine interest in tech innovation and environmental solutions. If you’re traveling with kids, tech enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see how printing technology can be used for social good, this tour fits the bill perfectly.
Key Points
- Hands-on learning about large-scale 3D printing with a small group setting
- Insight into eco-friendly plastics recycling and sustainable manufacturing practices
- Exclusive take-home souvenir: a 2-foot-tall 3D printed rocket
- Affordable price offering great value for a unique tech experience
- Knowledgeable guides who make complex concepts accessible and fun
- Flexible scheduling during weekday hours in Austin
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Contents
- Key Points
- A Closer Look at the re:3D Factory Tour
- A Behind-the-Scenes Peek into 3D Printing Innovation
- The Social Mission and Eco-Friendly Focus
- The Highlight: The Take-Home Rocket
- Practical Details and Value
- What Reviewers Say
- The Itinerary in Detail
- Additional Tips for Visitors
- Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Austin
- More Tours in Austin
- More Tour Reviews in Austin
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Austin we have recnetly reviewed
A Closer Look at the re:3D Factory Tour
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Austin.
A Behind-the-Scenes Peek into 3D Printing Innovation
The tour begins at re:3D’s Austin facility, where you’ll step into a working 3D printing studio. Here, you’ll see Gigabot in action—an extra-large filament-based printer designed to tackle big projects at an affordable cost. This large-format capability means companies, schools, and even communities can produce sizable objects—think furniture, artistic installations, or prototypes—without the need for expensive industrial equipment.
From the moment you arrive, the staff makes it clear that this isn’t just a factory tour but an educational journey. Expect to see and feel various 3D prints—small, large, and in different materials—giving you a tactile sense of what’s possible. As one reviewer put it, “Charlotte was very knowledgeable and personal,” making the tour both entertaining and informative.
The Social Mission and Eco-Friendly Focus
One of the most compelling aspects of re:3D is their commitment to sustainable practices. They’re working to develop alternatives to recycling plastics, turning waste into usable 3D printing filament. This isn’t just about high-tech gadgets—it’s about reducing waste and promoting circular economy principles. You’ll leave with a better understanding of how 3D printing can contribute to environmental solutions.
The Highlight: The Take-Home Rocket
Each group of up to 10 people receives a custom 3D-printed rocket, standing about 2 feet tall. This tangible souvenir exemplifies what’s possible with the Gigabot—a reminder that dreaming big is part of the ethos here. As one reviewer enthusiastically noted, “The rocket you take home is pretty cool,” and it serves as a lasting memory of your visit.
Practical Details and Value
At just $22 per group, the tour offers phenomenal value. For less than the cost of a fancy coffee, you gain insight into advanced manufacturing technology, see large-scale 3D printing in action, and walk away with a unique souvenir. The tour lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, making it a perfect fit for a morning or afternoon activity in Austin.
Booking is straightforward with flexible weekday hours from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, and they’re willing to accommodate groups larger than 15 if contacted in advance. The experience is suitable for almost all travelers, including those with service animals, and is accessible via public transportation near the meeting point.
What Reviewers Say
Feedback on this tour is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides like Charlotte, who can answer questions clearly and make complex topics approachable. One guest said, “Charlotte was amazing! She could answer any question with made sense answers,” highlighting the tour’s educational clarity.
Kids seem to love the rocket souvenir and the hands-on feel of the prints. One parent shared, “My son loved talking to the guide about the 3D printing world and was very happy with the time spent,” emphasizing that this is not only a tech lesson but also a fun, memorable experience for young curious minds.
Several comments mention how the tour expanded their understanding of 3D printing beyond just the hardware to include recycling and sustainability, making it a meaningful addition to a tech-themed Austin visit.
The Itinerary in Detail
Start at re:3D: Arrive at the facility on Old Bastrop Highway, where the team is ready to welcome small groups. You’ll begin with an introduction to Gigabot, the giant 3D printer that’s designed to print large objects at a fraction of traditional costs. Expect to see various prints of different sizes and materials, which helps visualize what’s achievable.
Guided Tour: The guide will explain the additive manufacturing process, the different types of filaments used, and how recycling plastics fits into their mission. You’ll understand how the company’s social mission is impacting recycling practices.
Hands-On Experience & Souvenir: The climax is the making of your rocket, which is then handed over to your group. It’s a fun, tangible reminder of what you’ve learned and seen. The rocket also symbolizes the potential of 3D printing to push boundaries.
Additional Tips for Visitors
- Book ahead during busy seasons, as the tour has limited spots.
- Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking around the factory floor.
- Bring questions—this is an interactive experience designed to engage your curiosity.
- The tour is suitable for most age groups, and the small size allows for personalized interaction.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?
Absolutely. If you’re interested in technology, innovation, or sustainability, this tour offers a rare look inside a cutting-edge 3D printing operation. The small-group format ensures you get personalized attention, making the experience more engaging and memorable. The affordable price combined with the take-home rocket makes it an excellent value for travelers keen to learn about emerging manufacturing technologies.
For families, tech enthusiasts, or curious travelers, it’s a fun and educational outing that broadens your understanding of what’s possible with 3D printing and recycled plastics. The knowledgeable guides, the chance to see Gigabot in action, and the souvenir rocket all come together to create an experience that’s both inspiring and tangible.
While it’s a brief tour, the depth of information and the hands-on element make it well worth your time. Plus, it’s a perfect way to connect with Austin’s innovative spirit—and to see how technology and social purpose can go hand in hand.
3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket!
“An exciting way to see first-hand cutting-edge technology and learn about corporate responsibility in action. The 60-minute tour was informative an…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and kids tend to love the rocket souvenir. The guides are friendly and willing to answer questions, making it approachable for younger visitors.
Do I need to bring anything?
No special equipment is needed. Just wear comfortable clothes and be ready to learn and see some impressive 3D prints.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, providing enough time to see the factory and ask questions without feeling rushed.
What is the cost of the tour?
It’s $22 per group for up to 15 people, offering excellent value considering the hands-on learning and souvenir included.
Can I book for larger groups?
Yes, the organizers are willing to accommodate groups larger than 15—just contact them at [email protected].
Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the factory is near public transit options, making it easy to reach without a car.
What is the best time to visit?
Tours are available Monday to Friday between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM. Early booking is recommended, especially during busy tourist seasons.
What makes this tour different from other Austin activities?
It’s a unique combination of technology, social impact, and hands-on experience that you won’t find elsewhere. Plus, the small group size ensures a more personal and engaging visit.
Will I see real 3D printing in action?
Absolutely. You’ll see Gigabot printing objects and learn about the materials and process involved.
What’s the main takeaway from this tour?
You’ll gain a clear understanding of how large-scale 3D printers work, appreciate their potential for social good, and leave with a fun souvenir and new insights into sustainable manufacturing.
In essence, the re:3D factory tour is a worthwhile addition for those interested in innovation, sustainability, and hands-on learning. It offers an authentic peek into the future of manufacturing with friendly guides, a warm atmosphere, and a memorable rocket to take home. Whether you’re a tech geek or just curious about what’s next, this experience delivers genuine value and inspiration.
