The city of Detroit has a story that is inspiring. From bankruptcy to rebound, the city is rising from the ashes of an economy failure. It’s packed with history and interesting points, but one of the highlights of the city is Ford. An incredible look at history continuing to roll on today, the Ford Rouge Factory Tour is packed with inspiration and innovation. As part of the 2015 Ford NAIAS Digital Summit, Tourist Meets Traveler was able to spend the last day at this amazing facility.
The Ford Rogue Factory Tour experience is comprised of a multiple-part tour:
1. The Legacy Theater – A look inside the amazing history of this world renowned manufacturing facility.
2. The Manufacturing Innovation Theater – A fully immersive journey with amazing special effects that puts you in the vehicle design, build, test and drive experience.
3. The Living Roof – A bird’s eye view of the living roof and other sustainable features.
4. An Assembly Plant Walking Tour – Visitors will have the opportunity to view the final assembly process and see where the new military grade aluminum-alloy body Ford F-150s are assembled from an elevated walkway.
5. The Legacy Gallery – See older, classic Ford vehicles.
The Manufacturing theater was an intriguing experience. Guests will “discover the Rouge history of innovation, from Henry Ford’s pioneering vision of vertical integration to cure-day sustainable manufacturing. Stories of triumphs, tragedies and constant reinvention are told through Historic footage.” An educational 14 minute film is shown and details the growth of one of the most respected vehicle makers in the world.
Guests will have their jaw dropped by the Observation Deck. The 80-foot-high area houses the world’s largest living roof. It’s a ground-breaking innovation that is equally as gorgeous. We didn’t get to experience the Living Laboratory, but if it’s anything like the rest of the tour, it will be worth every moment.
A few Ford Rouge Factory Tour Tips…
1. Allow a minimum of 2 hours to tour the entire plant.
2. The tour is handicapped accessible. Chairs and strollers are available for use at no extra charge.
3. Sometimes vehicles are not in production. Click HERE to view the plant’s schedule to plan accordingly.
4. The tour is a great source for teachers. Field Trips and PowerPoint Presentations are available.