Where the Magic Happens

The Story of the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory

Every stuffed animal needs a place to call home—and ours just happens to come with mountain views. As we celebrate 45 years here at Vermont Teddy Bear, we’re looking back at one of the most important chapters in our story: the place where our plush pals come to life. Our Shelburne, Vermont Factory is where Teddy Bears, stuffed animals, and all kinds of cuddly characters are stitched, stuffed, and sent out into the world.

Think of it as a workshop full of love, friendship, and just a little bit of Teddy Bear magic. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane (with a Bear in tow, of course).

The Perfect Spot for Our Fur-Ever Home

Every great stuffed animal deserves a cozy hometown.

When we began searching for the perfect place to build our factory, we knew it had to feel just right. Eventually we found it: a charming farm on the edge of Shelburne, Vermont. Rolling fields, fresh mountain air, and plenty of room for creativity—it already felt like a storybook setting.

Then we looked up and saw Camel’s Hump, one of Vermont’s most beloved mountains standing tall in the distance. That view sealed the deal.

If our stuffed animals were going to grow up anywhere, it might as well be somewhere this magical. And just like that, we found the perfect spot for our fur-ever home.

Breaking Ground & Building the Den

In 1993, construction began on what would soon become the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. It wasn’t just a building project—it was a full-on team adventure.

The entire Teddy Bear crew rolled up their sleeves to help with the big move. Boxes were packed, machines were moved, and excitement was stuffed to the seams.

Two years later, in 1995, the factory officially opened its doors.

Since then, this cheerful building has been the birthplace of thousands upon thousands of handmade Teddy Bears and stuffed animals, each stitched with care and a whole lot of heart.

Because when something is Made in America, every hug-worthy detail counts.

Ready to meet the classics that started it all?

Shop the Made in USA Collection →

Home Sweet Home

More than 30 years later, our factory is still buzzing with cuddle-crafting fun. 

Inside our Shelburne Vermont Factory, our team continues to handcraft 100% Made in USA Teddy Bears every day. From the first stitch to the final fluff, every plush friend is made with the same care and craftsmanship that started it all. 

But here’s the best part—you’re invited. Visitors from near and far come to see where the magic happens, take a peek behind the scenes, and watch our plush pals come to life. It’s a place where memories are made, smiles are stitched, and every visit ends with at least one “aww.”

Come see where the cuddles begin!

Plan Your Visit to the Bear Factory →

For 45 years, Vermont Teddy Bear has been creating stuffed animals for life’s biggest hugs—birthdays, holidays, milestones, and those “just because” moments that deserve extra hugs.

And it all happens right here in Shelburne, Vermont, where fuzzy friends are still lovingly handmade every day. So whether you’re bringing home a new plush pal or visiting the factory yourself, you’re part of the story.

After all, every great adventure is better with a stuffed animal by your side.

Shop Vermont Teddy Bear