At the World Museum of Mining in Butte, Montana, history doesn’t just sit behind glass – it surrounds you. Built atop the historic Orphan Girl Mine, this 22-acre site is one of the world’s only museums on a former mine yard. Here, you’ll embark on a powerful, hands-on journey through more than a century of Butte’s rugged mining history.
Wander through Hell Roarin’ Gulch, a meticulously re-created 1890s mining town with over 50 buildings filled with authentic artifacts. Then, take the adventure deeper with a guided underground tour that descends 100 feet into one of the only publicly accessible exposed veins in North America. Hear the stories, feel the chill, and walk the same paths as the miners who helped build the “Richest Hill on Earth.”
With towering headframes, hands-on exhibits, and a deep dive into Butte’s gritty, groundbreaking past, the World Museum of Mining is a must-see for families, history lovers, and curious adventurers alike. Book your underground tour today and experience the grit, innovation, and spirit that built Butte, America.
Tips For Planning Your Visit to the Underground Tour:
- The Orphan Girl 100 Foot Level Tour takes you to the original workings of the mine. Mud is likely.
- Visitors are fitted with miners’ hard hats, mine lights, safety glasses and ear plugs. The mine lights are the only lights underground except for two, which are used to highlight the shaft to the water. Equipment is sanitized after each use.
- The mine workings are not ADA compliant and walking 180 feet of entrance ramp is ordinarily required; however, visitors with limited mobility may be accommodated for parts of the tour. There is a 17% slope although there are no stairs.
- No one under the age of 5 is permitted on the tour.
- All participants are REQUIRED to wear close toed shoes. Crocs are not permitted.
- Cash refunds are not available. Gift card credit can be issued up to 48 prior to scheduled tour.
Find more tour experiences on our Butte tours page!
