Iron Trail Historic and Heritage Attractions

Northeastern Minnesota’s Iron Trail — rich in cultural and historical sites!

Immigrants from over 40 countries settled this region in the late 1800s. They brought with them a wealth of traditions which are part of the exciting cultural heritage of the area. This unique ethnic history, combined with the Iron Trail’s mining heritage, provides an unmatched educational experience for your entire family. We’ve made great efforts to preserve the stories, artifacts and buildings of the past and we’re proud to share them with you.

Two of the region’s state parks give you different perspectives of iron mining on the Iron Range. A visit to the Soudan Underground Mine State Park takes you on a half-mile trip into the earth via elevator and train so you can experience first-hand how it felt to be a miner who worked day-after- day in an underground mine. Eventually, most of the iron mines in the area converted their underground mines to strip mining operations. The Hill Annex Mine State Park offers an excellent example of this “open pit” mining experience. At both sites, guides are available to relate the mining story.

Because many communities in the area were established around the turn of the 20th century, the Iron Trail has 35 sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places for you to explore.

Over 1,000 years of Native American history and culture is on display at the Bois Forte Heritage Center where the Atisokanigamig “Legend House” features the proud heritage of the Bois forte Band of Ojibwe.

At Ironworld Discovery Center, the region’s premier history center, your family will explore history and heritage exhibits, ride a vintage trolley, and enjoy living history presentations by authentically costumed artisans.

Colorful ethnic festivals such as the annual Polkafest held in June at Ironworld Discovery Center and the Land of the Loon Arts & Crafts Festival in Virginia give you additional reasons to make the Iron Trail your vacation destination!

The Iron Trail – it’s where family memories are created that last a lifetime!

To request a Free Heritage & Attraction Brochure visit our Free Vacation Guide section.