Western Museum of Mining and Industry, Colorado Springs

Easy to miss, but if you are interested in mining that's no problem for you! If you are local you have probably driven past this gold mine and not noticed it. Features include getting to pan for minerals (and keep what you find), as well as a tour of several working antique engines and pieces of machinery. One is approximately the size of a double decker bus and has stairs that lead down into it's belly. Another machine (a pump) looks nearly alive when it is turned on. Friendly and knowledgeable volunteer staff, and a modest gift shop area round out a great, although small, museum. Weather wasn't the best and had little ones with us so can't comment on outdoor section.

This is a great museum! Very informative and interactive. The tour was wonderful and kept my kids' attention. My 6 year-old had a great time, especially panning for old. My 3 year-old liked watching all the old "chines" [machines] run. Thank you!!!

My 7 year old brother LOVES this place. I would say not somewhere you'd want to visit more than like twice a year ( just because its so small). But the staff was amazing and it was 2 hours of great, cheap fun.

The grandkids loved panning for gold. Our guide, Chip, was interesting and we learned quite a bit about mining history. They have a great deal with season passes...the whole family can attend .

A very good and well detailed tour. The gentleman guide is very knowledgeable. Thank you, I had a great time!