We
always welcome visitors to the Marc P. Bates Observation Room to witness
our cheesemakers in action as they make Cougar Cheese and Ferdinand's
Ice Cream. While enjoying a snack from Ferdinand's, relax in a comfortable
chair to watch special videos that show the entire process of cheese
and ice cream production at the WSU Creamery.
Self-Guided
Tour: The observation room is
open to the public during business hours (9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.).
The best time to view cheese production is Monday - Thursday, 10:00
a.m. - 2:00 p.m. (days and times subject to change). To find out when
we'll be making ice cream, please call Ferdinand's at (509) 335-2141.
Videos available for viewing:
- "The Making of Cougar Gold®": An interesting 10 minute video of the Creamery's cheesemaking process.
- "Ferdinand's Ice Cream": A 5
minute, fun video that shows Ferdinand's Ice Cream being made.
Hosted
Visit: The observation room can
be reserved for groups of 6 or more people. Please call Ferdinand's
at (509)335-2141 to reserve a specific day and time.
Activities for hosted visits:
- A pictureboard story about cheesemaking is presented to young visitors who may not be interested in the more factual video.
- "The Story of Ferdinand", a delightful children's storybook, is read aloud to our young visitors.
- Samples of "squeaky" (fresh) and "aged" cheese curd are served.
- Ice cream cones may be purchased at a discount and served in the Observation Room. The cones must be ordered in advance and paid for in one transaction.