The visitor center is built on the site where A.J. Bush opened his first general store in 1897.
The original canning plant began by canning tomatoes, peaches, and blackberries before shifting focus to beans.
The company remains family-owned and operated, now spanning over five generations.
The iconic 'Duke' the dog mascot, famous for his role in commercials, has a dedicated display area.
The site features a 24-foot tall replica of a Bush's Baked Beans can at the entrance.
The production facility on-site still operates, though production floor access is limited to prevent contamination.
The museum includes a display of the antique ledger books used by the founding family to track local trade.
Bush's Visitor Center is located at the original site of the A.J. Bush & Company general store, established in 1897 in Chestnut Hill, Tennessee. The center serves as both a brand museum and a gateway to the active Bush's Beans production facility. Exhibits detail the company's history from its origins as a canning plant to its growth as a national leader in bean production. Visitors can view historical documents, vintage marketing materials, and a reproduction of the original general store. The on-site cafe, the Bush's Family Cafe, serves dishes featuring the company's signature bean products. The facility houses a gift shop selling exclusive branded merchandise and bean-related culinary items. It provides an overview of the manufacturing process and the agricultural history of the surrounding Tennessee region.
Beside the giant oversized replica of a Bush's Beans can located near the main entrance.
Plan to have lunch at the Family Cafe, as it is the only place to sample exclusive recipes using the company's various bean flavors.
Check the official website before traveling to confirm the production plant's operational status if you are interested in seeing the facility's exterior from the grounds.
Do not expect a full-scale factory tour, as internal production areas are restricted for food safety and operational reasons.
Closed on major holidays and typically closed on Sundays.
