The Center is a significant educational resource dedicated to the history and culture of the Iron Range region. It provides comprehensive experiences through both indoor and outdoor exhibits, including a vintage trolley ride to a mining ghost town, historic dwellings, and interactive displays that engage students in the rich heritage of Minnesota’s mining industry. The center covers various subjects, including social studies, science, arts, and language arts, making it a versatile destination for K-12 field trips. Specific areas of study include the history of mining, cultural anthropology, environmental science, and local arts and crafts.
Field trips at the Minnesota Discovery Center are designed to meet various educational benchmarks and can last from one to three hours, depending on the program chosen. The museum’s focus on hands-on learning through activities that allow students to delve deeper into the history of mining and the cultural stories of the people who lived in the area, ensures a dynamic and engaging learning experience for all students.
One of the key advantages of the Minnesota Discovery Center is its year-round availability, making it a convenient option for educators with varying scheduling needs. Beyond its exhibits, the center features a robust Iron Range Research Center, which houses a wealth of genealogical and historical research materials. This aspect is particularly beneficial for students interested in local history or personal ancestry, offering them a chance to connect with their roots in a meaningful way.
