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Maytag Dairy Farms: A Taste of Iowa History

Discover the legendary Maytag Blue Cheese at its source, a family-owned Iowa dairy farm with a rich history and handcrafted cheeses.

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Maytag Dairy Farms, located in Newton, Iowa, is the birthplace of Maytag Blue Cheese, a uniquely American creation. Founded in 1941 by the Maytag family of washing machine fame, the farm offers a glimpse into artisanal cheesemaking.

A brief summary to Maytag Dairy Farms

Local tips

  • Visit the farm store to sample and purchase Maytag's famous blue cheese, along with other artisanal cheeses and spreads.
  • Check the website or call ahead for information on special events or cheese-making workshops.
  • Bring a cooler if you plan to purchase cheese, as it needs to be kept cool, especially during warmer months.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Maytag Dairy Farms is located at 2282 E 8th St N, Newton, IA, on the north edge of town. From I-80, take Exit 164 (Highway 14) and head north. Turn east onto E 8th St N. The farm will be on your right. Parking is available on site.

  • Public Transport

    Newton is served by HIRTA (Heart of Iowa Regional Transit Agency), which offers door-to-door transit services. To reach Maytag Dairy Farms, schedule a ride at least 24 hours in advance by calling 1-877-686-0029. The cost is $2.00 each way within Newton.

  • Walking

    From Newton City Center, head east on E 1st St N, turn left onto N 2nd Ave E, then turn right onto E 8th St N. Continue east on E 8th St N for about 1.5 miles. Maytag Dairy Farms will be on your right at 2282 E 8th St N.

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Discover more about Maytag Dairy Farms

Maytag Dairy Farms is more than just a cheese factory; it's a slice of Iowa history. Established in 1941 by Frederick Louis Maytag II and Robert Maytag, sons of the Maytag Appliance Corporation founder, the farm emerged from Elmer Henry Maytag's passion for dairy cows, which began in 1919. The farm transitioned from award-winning Holsteins to pioneering American blue cheese, collaborating with Iowa State University to create a Roquefort alternative using cow's milk instead of sheep's milk. Today, Maytag Dairy Farms continues to produce its famous blue cheese by hand, using fresh milk from local dairy farmers. While the original prize-winning herd is no longer on-site, the tradition of quality and craftsmanship remains. Visitors can experience the rich flavors of Maytag Blue Cheese, along with white cheddar and cheese spreads, all available at the farm store. The farm is open to visitors Monday through Friday, offering a chance to witness the cheesemaking process and purchase Maytag's celebrated products. Though tours and milking demonstrations may not always be available, the experience of tasting the cheese at its source is a treat for any cheese lover.

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