Explore Historic Platteville: Private Guided Mine Tour and Scenic Train Ride
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
You should be comfortable walking on uneven ground and navigating narrow spaces for up to a couple of hours.
Overview
Discover Wisconsin’s mining heritage on an exclusive guided tour beneath Platteville’s historic mine tunnels, complete with a vintage train ride through scenic landscapes. Experience an underground adventure that brings local history vividly to life.
Private Guided Mine Tour & Train Ride
$25/Person per Hour | A One-on-One Tour Focused on Your Interests!
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience a personalized one-hour guided tour of the historic 1845 Bevans Lead-Zinc Mine and Hoist House. Tailored to your interests, this unique adventure includes a scenic ride on a vintage 1931 Whitcomb mine train, offering stunning views of the outdoor museum campus. Reservations are required for this unforgettable journey.
Duration
One Hour
About
Enjoy a private guided tour of the 1845 Bevans Lead-Zinc Mine and Hoist House. On your personal tour you can ask all the questions you want at any time, and always get a great view. The tour lasts one hour and will be customized to your interests. Weather permitting, a ride on a 1931 Whitcomb mine train through the lovely outdoor museum campus is also included. Reservations required; we recommend 48 hours advance notice. Tours are subject to availability. Please call us to check availability and to book!
Cost
$25 per person per hour ($50 minimum)
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy shoes
The mine tunnels have uneven, rocky floors—appropriate footwear will keep you comfortable and safe.
Bring a light jacket
Temperatures underground stay cool year-round, so carry a warm layer.
Reserve your tour in advance
Private tours have limited availability, so booking ahead is strongly recommended to ensure your spot.
Follow safety instructions closely
The mine tunnels can be narrow and dark; listening to guides ensures a safe and enjoyable visit.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer often roam the surrounding hills.
- Listen for Eastern screech owls after dusk near wooded areas.
History
Platteville's mines were key to Wisconsin’s 19th-century lead and zinc boom that shaped its economy and settlement patterns.
Conservation
The mine and surrounding lands are managed to protect geological features and minimize visitor impact on fragile environments.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Platteville
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provides support and protection on rocky, uneven mine floors.
Light jacket or fleece
Keeps you warm in consistently cool mine conditions.
Headlamp or flashlight
Helpful in darker sections though mines are generally lit.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your underground and outdoor exploration.