3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket! - What Makes the 3D Printing Process Special

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket!

Explore a working 3D printing factory in Austin, learn about large-scale printers, eco-friendly plastics, and take home a 2-foot tall rocket for $22 per group.

Discover the Innovative World of 3D Printing in Austin

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket! - Discover the Innovative World of 3D Printing in Austin

The 3D Printer Factory Tour plus a 2-foot Tall Rocket offers an engaging glimpse into the cutting-edge technology of additive manufacturing. For just $22 per group (up to 15 people), visitors spend around 45 minutes to an hour exploring re:3D, a studio founded by former NASA employees. This tour is perfect for those curious about large-scale 3D printers and sustainable plastic solutions, making it an excellent choice for families, students, and tech enthusiasts alike. The small-group format ensures an intimate, personalized experience, and each group receives a take-home 3D-printed rocket that stands 2 feet tall, adding a fun and memorable keepsake.

While the tour is designed to be informative and accessible, it is recommended for most travelers and is flexible enough to accommodate larger groups upon request. The location near public transportation and the no-cost cancellation policy make this an easy, risk-free addition to any Austin visit.

Key Points

  • Affordable and intimate: Only $22 per group (up to 15 people) for a 45-minute to 1-hour tour
  • Expert guides: Guides are knowledgeable and personable, making complex technology understandable
  • Hands-on experience: See and feel 3D prints of various sizes and materials
  • Social mission focus: Learn how re:3D innovates plastics recycling through eco-friendly solutions
  • Unique souvenir: Each group receives a 2-foot tall 3D-printed rocket
  • Flexible booking: Tours available Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM with options for larger groups

Inside the re:3D Factory in Austin

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket! - Inside the re:3D Factory in Austin

The tour begins at re:3D, located at 1201 Old Bastrop Hwy in Austin. Visitors are introduced to Gigabot, the largest filament-based industrial 3D printer designed to be affordable and scalable for larger projects. The guides walk through the production floor, demonstrating 3D prints in various shapes, sizes, and materials. This visual exposure helps clarify how the additive manufacturing industry is expanding beyond small prototypes to large-format constructs.

You learn about the technology behind Gigabot and see how re:3D pushes the boundaries of 3D printing to serve industrial needs while also addressing environmental concerns. The social mission of the studio emphasizes creating eco-friendly alternatives to recycling plastics, aligning with modern sustainability goals.

What Makes the 3D Printing Process Special

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket! - What Makes the 3D Printing Process Special

Attendees get an up-close look at large-scale 3D printing, which differs significantly from typical desktop models. The filament-based printers used by re:3D produce large objects efficiently, and seeing 3D prints of various materials and shapes highlights the versatility of this technology. The guides explain how additive manufacturing can be used for dreaming big—hence the tagline #DreamBigPrintHUGE—and for creating practical solutions.

The focus on recycling plastics introduces an environmental dimension, showing how re:3D is helping reduce waste by transforming recycled plastics into usable 3D printing filament. Visitors leave with a better understanding of how sustainable practices are shaping the future of manufacturing.

The 2-Foot Tall Rocket: A Memorable Keepsake

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket! - The 2-Foot Tall Rocket: A Memorable Keepsake

A standout feature of this tour is the take-home 3D-printed rocket, measuring 2 feet tall, which each group receives after the visit. This memorable souvenir symbolizes the innovation and creativity fostered at re:3D. The rockets serve as a fun, tangible reminder of the advanced technology explored during the tour and are especially popular among kids and families.

This unique item adds a playful element to the experience, making it more than just an educational tour. Many visitors appreciate having a physical object to remind them of the cutting-edge work happening in Austin’s tech scene.

Meeting the Re:3D Team and Learning from Experts

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket! - Meeting the Re:3D Team and Learning from Experts

The guides at re:3D stand out for their knowledgeable and personable approach. They answer questions about 3D printing technologies, materials, and recycling solutions with clarity and enthusiasm. The small group size allows for personal interaction, making complex topics accessible—even for those new to the field.

Reviews highlight that guides like Charlotte bring great personalities and make the experience both entertaining and educational. Visitors appreciate the patient explanations and the ability to tailor the tour to different levels of familiarity with 3D printing.

Logistics and Booking Details

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket! - Logistics and Booking Details

The tour departs from re:3D at 1201 Old Bastrop Hwy, with sessions available Monday through Friday, from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The group size is limited to 15, ensuring an intimate experience, but bookings can be accommodated for larger groups upon request.

The tour includes a mobile ticket and can be cancelled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers. The activity is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and is conveniently located near public transportation.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Austin

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket! - Why This Tour Stands Out in Austin

What sets this factory tour apart is its combination of hands-on demonstration, social mission, and the chance to take home a physical souvenir. The focus on large-format 3D printing and plastics recycling aligns perfectly with current trends toward sustainable manufacturing. The affordable price and small-group environment ensure a personalized experience that is both informative and fun.

On top of that, the positive reviews confirm that visitors find the guides knowledgeable and the experience memorable. The opportunity to see baby goats during the tour adds a charming, unexpected touch, making this a lighthearted yet educational outing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket! - Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals equally to tech enthusiasts, families with children, students, and environmentally conscious travelers. It is particularly suited for those curious about industrial-scale 3D printing and innovative recycling methods. Because of the small group size and interactive nature, it’s ideal for visitors seeking a personalized, engaging experience.

The take-home rocket makes it especially popular among kids and the young at heart. However, the straightforward explanations and accessible approach ensure that even complete beginners can walk away with a better understanding of the future of manufacturing.

The Sum Up: A Unique Insight into 3D Printing Innovation

The re:3D factory tour offers a rare opportunity to explore large-scale 3D printing technology in a friendly, approachable setting. For $22, visitors gain insight into eco-friendly plastic solutions, see impressive prints in person, and come away with a fun, sizable rocket as a souvenir. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the guides’ expertise makes complex topics clear and engaging.

While not an extensive, multi-hour experience, this tour provides a compact, meaningful introduction to industrial 3D printing and sustainability initiatives. It’s perfect for families, tech lovers, and anyone interested in how additive manufacturing is shaping a greener future. Highly recommended for those wanting an interactive, educational, and memorable visit in Austin.

✨ Book This Experience

3D Printer Factory Tour plus 2 ft Tall Rocket!



5.0

(17 reviews)

94% 5-star

“Charlotte was very knowledgeable and personal. It helped that we had only 5 people though so she could get to know us more. She was able to answer…”

— Kaleb M, Mar 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

What is the price?
The cost is $22 per group for up to 15 people.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and popular among kids, especially with the take-home rocket.

Can I book for a larger group?
Yes, larger groups are welcome; contact [email protected] for arrangements.

What are the tour hours?
Tours are available Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

Is there parking nearby?
While not explicitly stated, the location is near public transportation, and the factory is accessible.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, the tour permits service animals.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

What makes this tour stand out?
The hands-on demonstration of large-scale 3D printing, eco-friendly focus, and personalized experience with a unique rocket souvenir.

Is there anything else I should know?
The tour includes seeing and feeling 3D printed items, understanding sustainability efforts, and enjoying a personable guide. For questions, contact [email protected].