Who among us hasn't enjoyed watching shows like How It's Made or that Sesame Street sketch at the crayon factory? There's just something so satisfying about learning how everyday products go from raw materials to fully formed consumer goods at these Maine factory tours. All sorts of companies manufacture products in Maine, and a few of them will let you take a peek behind the curtain to see exactly how it works. Trust us: It's way better than watching it on TV. Enjoy these fun factory tours in Maine!

1. Cold River Vodka (Freeport)

Here's one you won't see on Sesame Street. Cold River will show you how they make both vodka and gin from local Maine potatoes, but the big attraction here is the free samples. They flow freely, so if you're driving, be careful! Call the factory at (207) 865-4828 first for tour times.

Read more about Cold River Vodka.

2. Haven's Candies (Westbrook)

Next on our list of factory tours in Maine is Haven's Candies. The Haven's factory is separated by a glass wall from their Westbrook retail store. You can walk in anytime and watch the candy being made, but guided tours are available by appointment for a small fee. Call (207) 772-1557 before you go.

Learn more about Haven's Candies.

3. Thos. Moser Cabinetmakers (Auburn)

Tom Moser started making furniture in 1972 with the goal of using the same painstaking processes that the Shakers used since the 19th century. Today his company employs more than 70 craftsman, and they invite you to come watch them work. Tours are available by visiting here: Tour Information.

4. Tom's of Maine (Sanford)

Since 1970, Tom's of Maine has been bringing naturally made personal-care products to the masses. Though they're now owned by corporate behemoth Colgate-Palmolive, you can still see how they make their wide variety of products the old-fashioned way at their factory in Sanford. Appointments are required for the tour and can be made by calling (207) 985-2944.

Find out more about Tom's of Maine.

5. Wilbur's of Maine Chocolate Confections (Freeport)

The Wilbur's tour is unique because they let you get in on the action. After the 45-minute tour -- complete with lots of samples, of course -- you'll get the chance to make your own chocolate-covered Oreos. That perk alone is enough to make Wilbur's one of the best factory tours in Maine. Tours start every 45 minutes between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Call (207) 865-4071 for more details.

Read more about Wilbur's of Maine Chocolates.

6. Allagash Brewing Company (Portland)

Though you don't have to take the tour at Maine's most beloved microbrewery to get free samples (really!), it's still a fascinating experience to see how humble agricultural products come together to produce the nectar of the gods. Oh, and those free samples? A flight of four of their finest brews. Allagash doesn't play around. There are tours seven days a week, but you'll have to book ahead on their website. Check out more about Allagash Brewing Co.. The phone number is (207) 878-5385.

7. Jagger Brothers (Springvale)

If you think yarn is less glamorous than beer, obviously you don't knit. This family-operated spinning mill invites you to take an inside look at the manufacture of their colorful, quality yarns. Make your plans now, because tours are the fourth Wednesday of every month at 10 a.m. Call (800) 225-8023.

Check out more about Jagger Brothers Yarn.

8. Sabre Yachts (South Casco)

So far we've heard about how you can see beer, vodka and chocolate being made, but you know what would make any of those so much better? Enjoying them on your brand-new yacht, of course. OK, OK, you may never get that yacht, but feel free to fantasize about it as you tour Sabre's plant. Call (207) 655-3831 to ask about hours.

Find out more about Sabre Yachts.

For more under-the-radar activities, check out 14 surprising things you never thought about doing in Maine.