Michigan Iron Industry Museum, Negaunee

This museum is a bit hidden, but it's a great stop. There's a sign on the main highway and a short jaunt down a paved drive will get you here. It's free admission with a recommended $5 donation in a box by the door. This is a well kept museum with a nice selection of the tools used in the mining of the area. Aimed more toward the school crowd, there are a good number of educational placards around discussing the history and use of the trade in a simple terms. There are a few stations to experiment (compasses and magnets and such). There are quite a few spots talking about the lives of the people that worked the mines, not just the mines themselves, and I thought that was a nice touch. There's a nice gift shop and some nature walking paths around the building itself. If you're on a family trip (or just have an interest in the local history) it's a fun, short stop. Well worth the suggested donation if you make it!

Surprisingly interesting! I had no idea iron was so entertaining and important to the area and our country. The exhibit featured interesting displays for both adults and children and admission was a donation. Our 1 hour visit was enough to cover many of the indoor exhibits but not much time on the trail outside.