The American Factory

Built in 1866 and originally operating as the Woolen Mill Factory, this sprawling complex of buildings in Valparaiso, Indiana, now houses The American Factory by Journeyman Distillery. The structures were abandoned over 30 years ago when the 140,000-square-foot ANCO wiper-blade factory shut its doors, and there was talk of demolishing the property.

Bill Welter, who was born and raised in Valparaiso, had a different idea: He honored the complex’s structural and manufacturing heritage while creating his second organic and certified kosher distillery (the first being Journeyman in Three Oaks, Michigan). 

The original estimate ranged from $12 million to $25 million, but, as with most construction projects, it took longer and cost more, bringing the final cost to $40 million. The result is a stunning series of spaces that blends original flooring and industrial light fixtures with ultra-contemporary soaring windows and sleekly styled furniture crafted by local artisans. Visitors can schedule a tour to check out the gleaming 35-foot-tall Vendome copper still where the distilling gets done, dine in the spacious Union Hall and sip a cocktail on the patio. Patrons can stop by the Sea of Monsters Brewery. Located in The American Factory, its entrance is marked by a large octopus mural. 

The gift shop stocks Journeyman’s approximately 30 core and limited-release organic craft spirits. Select from the distillery’s national award-winning Corsets, Whips & Whiskey and unique offerings such as the Humdinger Jalapeño Spirit and Pit Spitter Cherry Whiskey as well as Popcorn Bourbon Cream Liqueur (and yes, it does taste like popcorn), which pays homage to Orville Redenbacher who hailed from Valparaiso. 258 S. Campbell St., Valparaiso, Indiana 46383, 219/510-1300, journeyman.com