Adventure Brief
Explore Wisconsin’s mining heritage with a guided underground tour and scenic train ride in Platteville. Discover history and nature combined in one unforgettable day.
2–3 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Explore Wisconsin’s mining heritage with a guided underground tour and scenic train ride in Platteville. Discover history and nature combined in one unforgettable day.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; moderate walking required with some uneven terrain inside the mine.
Wildlife
History
Platteville was a major center for lead mining in the 19th century, and this mine represents one of the oldest surviving examples of early American mining technology.
Conservation
The museum actively promotes preservation of mining history while encouraging sustainable tourism practices that protect local wildlife and habitats.
The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums
Explore Wisconsin’s mining heritage with a guided underground tour and scenic train ride in Platteville. Discover history and nature combined in one unforgettable day.
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.
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Guided tours, events, and fundraisers
Location
Platteville, Wisconsin
In the Driftless Area of Wisconsin
Historic Mine
Bevans Mine — 1845
Original lead-zinc mine on site
Vintage Train
1931 Whitcomb
Scenic museum train rides
Book museum admission, private guided tours, group reservations, or seasonal event tickets to experience Platteville’s mining history firsthand.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
The mine tour involves walking on uneven and sometimes damp surfaces, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
Arrive Early for Best Experience
Arriving early helps you avoid crowds and gives you time to explore outdoor exhibits before your tour.
Bring a Light Jacket
The mine temperature stays cooler year-round, so dressing in layers is helpful.
Reserve Tickets in Advance
Booking ahead ensures your spot on the guided mine tour and train ride, especially during peak seasons.
Sturdy Walking Shoes
Provides comfort and safety on uneven mine floors and outdoor paths.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm during the cool underground tour and fluctuating outdoor temperatures.
spring
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important during warm days spent exploring the museum grounds.
summer
Camera or Smartphone
Capture unique moments during the scenic train ride and historic exhibits.