Is Heritage Day suitable for children?

Yes, Heritage Day includes family-friendly activities and demonstrations that are great for kids of all ages.

Are guided tours of Bevans Mine included with admission?

Yes, guided tours of Bevans Mine are part of the Heritage Day experience and provide insightful historical context.

Can I purchase food and drinks at the event?

Yes, there are food vendors onsite, including unique mining-inspired ice cream and other refreshments.

Is the event wheelchair accessible?

The event grounds are mostly accessible, but some areas of the Bevans Mine tours may have limited accessibility. Contact the museum for details.

Are pets allowed at Heritage Day?

Pets are generally not allowed in the event areas for safety and comfort of all guests.

How do I get to Platteville from the nearest major city?

Platteville is about a 1-hour drive southwest from Madison, WI, which is the closest major city with airport and lodging options.

Heritage Day Celebration in Platteville, Wisconsin

Celebrate Independence Day with a unique twist at Heritage Day in Platteville, Wisconsin. Hosted by The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums, this event offers a lively combination of historic charm and community spirit. Stroll through the event grounds and admire classic antique cars while enjoying live music that sets a festive tone. Don’t miss the guided tours of the Bevans Mine, where you can learn about Platteville’s rich mining heritage firsthand. For a treat, try the exclusive mining-inspired ice cream flavors that add a sweet note to the day. Families will find plenty of activities designed to captivate children and adults alike, from hands-on demonstrations to interactive exhibits. Heritage Day shines as a family-friendly festival that honors the past while looking forward to the future. Whether you're a history buff, a car enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable July 4th outing, this celebration is an exceptional way to connect with the community's roots in a fun and educational setting.

About The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums

The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums in Platteville, Wisconsin, preserve and interpret the region’s mining and cultural history. The campus centers on the historic 1845 Bevans Lead‑Zinc Mine and Hoist House and features indoor exhibits, outdoor artifacts, and a vintage 1931 Whitcomb mine train used for public rides. The museums offer guided mine tours, private guided mine tours, group tours, school field trip programs aligned with Wisconsin educator standards, and seasonal public events such as Heritage Day, Mine Day, a Haunted Mine Tour, and the Miners Ball fundraiser.

Visitors can purchase museum admission that includes a guided underground mine tour and a scenic train ride across the museum campus. Special experiences include themed fundraisers like Mini Golf at the Museum and tailored educational programs for classrooms. The museums emphasize hands‑on demonstrations, live music at festivals, and interpretive walks such as the Land, Place, and Life: A Driftless Walking Tour that explores local landscape, history, and culture along a trout stream.

The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums partner with the Friends of the Museums and community volunteers to host events and preserve artifacts. Reservations are required for private guided mine tours and group train rides. Programming is designed for families, school groups, and visitors interested in industrial heritage, geology, and regional culture. The museums provide accessible visitor information about hours, tickets, and special events on their official channels.

Docent-led talks and artifact displays connect mining techniques, immigrant labor history, and regional geology for an educational, engaging visitor experience with exhibits on-site.