Since George Stuntz discovered iron ore near Lake Vermilion while investigating a report of gold deposits in the area, mining has been the heart’s blood of Minnesota’s Iron Range. Learn about our rich history during your stay.
Local Museums and Tours
Soudan Underground Mine
Travel by cage 1/2 miles underground and explore Minnesota’s first iron ore mine. The Soudan mine opened in 1882 and continued underground operations went until new technologies rendered the expensive, high oxygen ore less necessary for steel production. The mine shut down production in 1962 and now offers tours daily from Memorial Day to the end of September.
1302 McKinley Park Rd, Soudan | (218) 300-7000
Minnesota Discovery Center
Learn about the land, the mines, the people and the work of the Iron Range region of northern Minnesota. The Discovery Center is the largest museum in Minnesota outside of the Twin Cities. The 33,000-square-foot facility features artifacts, mining methods, regional geology, and hosts traveling exhibits that help illuminate the spirit and sensibilities of Iron Range pioneers and their descendants.
1005 Discovery Drive, Chisholm | www.mndiscoverycenter.com
Scenic Mine Views
The deep open pit mines scattered across the Iron Range are an amazing site! Plan a stop at one or more or more of these scenic overlooks.
Mt. Iron Park and Mineview
See a breath-taking view and visit an antique Baldwin locomotive as well as mining equipment. A Registered National Historic Landmark, from the park.
Take the county road 102 exit from Highway 169 and follow .75 miles north to Main Street. Go left, then follow two blocks to Mountain Ave. Turn right and head to Locomotive Street. Parking will be visible.
Mt. Iron | Open all year long
Leonidas Overlook
Lovely views of the surrounding forests and mines. Highest manmade point
Take the county road 102 exit from Highway 169 and follow .75 miles north to Main Street. Go left, then follow two blocks to Mountain Ave. Turn right and head to Locomotive Street. Parking will be visible.
Eveleth | Closed Winters
Finntown Overlook & Park
View three miles of deep canyon.
3rd Street North, Virginia | Closed Winters
Town Life on the Range
Visit one of our welcoming small towns during your stay!
Virginia “The Queen City”
Virginia is one of the larger towns on the Range and home to big box shopping and grocery shops. If you’re planning on stocking up for your trip, Virginia should be your first stop!
Eveleth “Home of the Hockey Hall of Fame”
Just a few miles from Virginia, Eveleth is home to many fine examples of ‘captains’ homes architecture as well as the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Gilbert “Antiquing and Dining”
Gilbert is the next stop on your tour of the Range and home to two wonderful antique shops and a couple of great dining options for visitors; Whistling Bird and Nick’s.
Biwabik “A Bavarian Village”
Next up is this sweet Bavarian village that serves as the gateway to Giant’s Ridge, northern Minnesota’s premier ski resort. Stop in Biwabik for famous Vi’s pizza or just enjoy city park and gazebo.
Embarras “Finnish Heritage”
Tucked into a valley, Embarrass is home to some of the most unique Finnish architecture in the country as well as holding records for coldest temperatures in the continental US at 60 below zero. Home of Northern Comfort B&B and Mercantile.
Tower Soudan – “Life on the Lake
Located on the shores of Lake Vermillion, Tower Soudan is home to amazing fishing as well as the Soudan Underground Mine.
Ely “Gateway to the Boundary Waters”
Home to amazing restaurants, shops, and outfitters, Ely is a must-visit destination for visitors to the Iron Range.
