Apiary Tours and Demonstrations
Tour the Iron Bee Apiary
We offer guided encounters with a superorganism
Perfect for aspiring beekeepers who want to know what it’s all about and the bee-curious! Kids are welcome!
Suit up, learn to use a smoker, explore the inside of an active beehive, and experience the incredible taste of freshly foraged nectar and honey straight off the comb
This is fully hands-on experience: you will get dirty and smoky, you will get sticky with nectar, and you will be close enough to pet the baby bees and smell the honey curing in the frames.
A beehive is filled with wonder, and there’s honestly nothing quite like the feeling of standing next to a happily humming hive of 50,000 friendly, intelligent creatures
What we’re offering is the chance to suit up in protective gear and encounter a benevolent superorganism. Think about that for a minute!
2024 Apiary Tours Now Available
New Tour Dates Coming Soon!
Questions and Answers
Q: Will I be provided a beekeeping suit for my tour?
A: Yes, you will be provided full protective gear during your visit.
Q: Will I get stung?
A: Only if you antagonize the beekeeper—otherwise you'll be pretty well armored in protective gear and thick gloves. We can’t guarantee a 100% sting-free trip, but it’s honestly pretty unlikely. We only keep friendly bees.
Q: What's the minimum age for visits?
A: We've had kids as young as 3 attend our apiary that had a great time
Q: Do you allow big groups or school field trips?
A: By request of the bees, we only allow small groups in the apiary. Note that we are happy to come out to schools or groups to give presentation upon request.
Q: What if I’m allergic to bee stings?
A: Discuss it with your doctor. It’s usually OK to still visit. I know multiple local beekeepers that are allergic to bee stings, and it doesn’t slow them down one bit as long they take a few simple precautions.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Please wear long pants and closed-toed shoes or boots. A sweater or something similar is good extra protection under your suit if you’re nervous. Dress like you were going out to the farm.
Q: Where are you located?
A: We have several apiaries in Sammamish, WA—just 30 minutes East of Seattle.
Have more questions?
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