A Day at the UTZ Potato Chip Factory

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As summer is approaching, I’ll soon be managing my days alongside a 7 year old child wondering what he can do all day (besides play video games and watch TV). It’s especially hard when I’ve got work to do and all my work involves screen time.

When I was better at managing life a few years ago, Evan was in preschool and I was still working from home. But he went to a babysitter (who we loved) for three days a week. I fit everything I could into those three days and whatever time I had during preschool and then tried to balance things the rest of the time.

I ended up feeling like I was doing a mediocre job as a parent. So I decided to introduce Field Trip Fridays. I tried to make it a point to stop, (mostly) disconnect, and just enjoy exploring with my little guy every Friday. We headed to the park or the museum or the zoo but mainly we just got out and did things.

Last fall, when Evan had a day off of school, I decided to try the field trip concept again and take him to the UTZ Potato Chip Factory in Hanover, Pennsylvania. It was perfect because the factory tours are only open during the week when things are in operation.

Much to his chagrin, we set off in the car while Evan complained that he’d rather be home playing video games. I explained that my job as a parent is to expose him to new things and adventures and get out and see the world, one potato chip at a time.

Guess what?

We had an amazing day. It was a special day with just the two of us and he thanked me for taking him on such an awesome trip. I’m going to use this trip as a reminder to do the same this summer. He’s only young once and I plan to take these field trips with him all summer long. And while I love to unplug, I might just bring my camera along and show you some of the amazing things I find to do with my one and only.

If you’re thinking about heading to the UTZ Potato Chip Factory Tour, it’s a good idea to check their website and call first to make sure the factory is in operation the day you are going. It’s a FREE self-guided tour where you get to see every aspect of potato chip processing – but no photos are allowed inside the factory! At the end of the tour, every guest receives a small bag of the freshest potato chips you’ve ever had. But if you’re like us, that small bag didn’t cut it. Close by is the UTZ Factory Outlet Store where you can sample and buy every flavor they make!