Thinking about adding a dash of tech-savvy wonder to your Austin trip? The 3D Printer Factory Tour at re:3D promises an engaging peek behind the scenes of one of the most innovative additive manufacturing companies. Perfect for tech enthusiasts, families, or anyone curious about how large-scale 3D printing is changing the game, this experience combines education with a bit of fun and a memorable souvenir.
What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to see Gigabot, the world’s first affordable, large-scale industrial 3D printer in action. Second, the focus on eco-friendly plastic recycling solutions adds a meaningful twist to the typical factory visit. Third, every group leaves with an impressive 2-foot-tall rocket, making it a perfect keepsake. The only potential caveat? The tour duration is relatively short—about 45 minutes to an hour—so if you’re craving an in-depth workshop, this might be a quick intro rather than an all-day deep dive.
This experience is ideally suited for travelers who love technology, enjoy seeing innovative manufacturing processes, or want a family-friendly activity that combines education with fun. Whether you’re visiting with kids, a group of friends, or solo with a curiosity for new tech, this tour offers excellent value and unique insights.
Good To Know
Affordable and Accessible: At just $22 per group, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering it’s a private, small-group experience.
Educational and Interactive: You’ll learn how large-scale 3D printers like Gigabot work and see a variety of 3D prints in different shapes, sizes, and materials.
Social Mission Focused: The tour highlights re:3D’s commitment to recycling plastics and creating sustainable manufacturing solutions.
Take-home Souvenir: Every group of up to 10 people leaves with a 3D-printed rocket, adding a tangible memory of your visit.
Family-Friendly: The tour is suitable for all ages, and reviews mention kids having a blast, especially with their souvenir rockets.
Convenient Location: Located at 1201 Old Bastrop Hwy in Austin, with nearby public transportation options.
Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish
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The Factory Tour: Where Innovation Comes to Life
The adventure begins at the re:3D facility, a hub founded by former NASA employees—so you know you’re walking into some serious tech territory. The factory is where the Gigabot is born, a large filament-based 3D printer designed for industrial-scale production. Depending on the day, you might get to see the entire manufacturing process or observe 3D printing in action, creating parts of all shapes and sizes. Reviewers like Kaleb_M praised the guides, noting Charlotte’s knowledgeable and personable style, which makes the technical details engaging and accessible even if you’re new to 3D printing.
Learning About Eco-Friendly Practices
One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the emphasis on sustainability. re:3D showcases how they’re working to develop more eco-friendly alternatives to recycling plastics—a topic that resonates with environmentally conscious travelers. You’ll see how plastics are repurposed into filament, reducing waste and showcasing a practical, scalable solution to plastic pollution.
The 3D Printing Demonstration
Expect to see a variety of 3D printed objects, from small prototypes to large models. The guides are eager to answer questions about the materials used, the design process, and real-world applications. Dalia_c highlighted that the tour was “super interesting” and that she learned about the world of 3D printing and its uses, which broadens your understanding of this versatile technology.
The Rocket Take-Home Gift
Along With the informative tour, each group of 10 or fewer gets to take home a 2-foot-tall 3D-printed rocket. Kids and adults alike find this souvenir exciting, as noted by Sandy_f, who said, “Kids loved their rockets and talked about them all day.” The rockets are not only fun but also serve as a tangible reminder of the innovation happening at re:3D.
Duration and Group Size
The tour lasts around 45 minutes to 1 hour, making it a quick but impactful activity that fits well into a broader itinerary. It’s designed for groups of up to 15, ensuring a more personalized experience. Reviewers appreciated the small-group atmosphere, which allows for more interaction and questions. If you have a larger group, the team is happy to accommodate, so just reach out.
The Experience: What Makes It Special
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Expert Guides and Personal Touches
Charlotte, the guide praised in reviews, makes complex concepts easy to understand while keeping the atmosphere light and engaging. She’s known for her ability to answer questions clearly and for making the tour entertaining. Paddy the dog, re:3D’s mascot, also adds a friendly vibe, as mentioned by a reviewer who enjoyed petting the pup during the visit.
Visual and Tactile Appeal
Seeing the variety of 3D prints—from tiny objects to large, intricate pieces—gives you a real sense of what additive manufacturing can do. The tactile experience of feeling the different materials and the size of the Gigabot itself is quite impressive. Reviewers mention the “feels of 3D prints of all shapes, sizes, and materials,” which makes the visit more immersive.
Not Just Technical, But Also Inspirational
The tour emphasizes the dream big, print huge philosophy, encouraging visitors to think of the endless possibilities with 3D printing. The social mission to recycle plastics adds a layer of purpose, making it more than just a tech demo. It’s about innovative solutions to real-world problems.
Value for Money and Family Appeal
Considering the $22 cost for a full group (up to 15 people), the tour offers excellent bang for your buck. The take-home rocket alone is a fun and memorable keepsake, especially appreciated by families. Reviewers like Joy_P and Matt_S shared how their grandchildren and children loved the experience, indicating it’s genuinely family-friendly.
Practical Details: Tips for a Smooth Visit
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- Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy times, to secure your preferred day and time.
- The tour runs on weekdays, from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, giving flexibility for morning or afternoon visits.
- The meeting point is at re:3D, 1201 Old Bastrop Hwy, Austin, close to public transportation options.
- Most travelers can participate, including service animals.
- If you’re traveling with a larger group, contact the team via [email protected] to arrange accommodations.
Who Will Love This Tour?
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This tour is perfect for anyone interested in technology, sustainability, or innovative manufacturing. Families with curious kids will enjoy the rocket souvenir and the colorful array of prints. Tech enthusiasts will appreciate seeing Gigabot and learning about scalable 3D printing. The focus on eco-friendly plastics makes it a meaningful stop for environmentally conscious travelers as well.
If you’re short on time but want a quick, fascinating glimpse into the future of manufacturing, this tour hits the mark. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate a personal, guided experience that’s both educational and fun.
FAQ
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How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
What is the price per group?
It costs $22 for up to 15 people, making it an affordable activity for small groups.
Can children attend the tour?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages, and kids especially love the take-home rockets.
Do I need to book in advance?
Booking is recommended to secure your preferred day and time, but last-minute bookings may be available.
Is the tour accessible?
Yes, the experience is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate.
What do I receive at the end of the tour?
Each group gets a 3D-printed rocket, which is about 2 feet tall—great for display and fun memories.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted; Paddy the dog is part of the friendly environment.
What if there’s bad weather?
The tour is mostly indoors, so weather isn’t a major concern. If canceled due to weather, you’ll get a full refund or a chance to reschedule.
Final Thoughts
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The re:3D factory tour offers a rare chance to see large-scale 3D printing in action, understand the social impact of recycling plastics, and take home a cool rocket souvenir. It’s a visit that balances education and entertainment, making technology accessible and fun for all ages.
For travelers eager to explore cutting-edge manufacturing or looking for a family-friendly activity that sparks curiosity and creativity, this tour will deliver. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the affordable price point offers outstanding value.
While it’s a quick tour, the insights gained and the memorable keepsake make it worth every penny. Whether you’re a tech lover, a family on an educational outing, or someone interested in sustainability solutions, this experience is sure to leave you inspired.
To sum it up, if you’re in Austin and want an authentic look into 3D printing with a sustainable twist, the re:3D factory tour is a highlight. It’s practical, engaging, and offers just enough depth to satisfy your curiosity, all wrapped up in a friendly, approachable package.