V.P.
Sounds like fun!
First of all, we've been to the Bureau of Engraving... I would set the expectations low on that one, and hope for the best. If you hype it up too much, the kids may be disappointed. The best part is the open areas (without a tour guide). You get to see a lot of cool stuff that the kids will enjoy. The tour (with the guide) is about 40 minutes long, and for kids, should be consolidated down to about 15 minutes. It's cool to see the stacks of money and where they print it, but little ones will get bored with all the specific talks about inks, paper, security issues, etc. all described in great details.
Other cool tours include
Mrs. Bairds - you get free samples of warm bread and donuts, too.
Great Harvest Bread - The one of Flower Mound gives tours... I'm not sure if there's a location closer to you in Bedford.
Police & Fire Departments - Not only do kids get to check out the cool vehicles, but they can see where the firemen sleep and eat, and where where 911 calls are answered.
Texas Motor Speedway - I think it's $6-8, but a cool tour.
Ballpark in Arlington - I believe they offer tours; don't know if there's a cost)
Many grocery stores, bakeries, pizzerias, etc allow tours. Call a few local to your area to ask.
Don't be afraid to call ANY business that you think you'd be interested in visiting... local ranch, manufacturing facility, vet's office, animal rescue places, etc. Many may not advertise tours, or even normally give them, but you'll find some that are thrilled to open their doors to you and your kids. For this experience, you might want to get a group of friends together - not only can they share the experience, but it will make it worth the time of the business owner.
A great story I recently read on BurbMom.net shows exactly what I'm referring to... http://www.burbmom.net/northwest-regional-airport-blue-ha...
Finally, this website offers a list of tours across the country...
http://www.factorytoursusa.com/StateList.asp?state=TX
Some of them may be worth the drive, or you may want to include them if you're going anywhere close to them this summer.
Good luck!
www.familyeguide.com Your guide to family activities in Denton County.