The Center focuses its efforts on the Pioneer Mine Museum located at the A-shaft and headframe in the Superior National Forest and Ely, Minnesota. Open during the summer months, the 16000 square foot interpretive center has tours led by local experts who will talk about the genesis of the town of Ely, the evolution of its five mines around Miner’s Lake, and it’s rich iron ore history and the role it has played in the development of the . The museum is open Tuesdays and Fridays, or by appointment, from Memorial Weekend through Labor Day.

Part of the same complex is the Miner’s Dry, a 6700 sq/ft event space, originally used by the miner’s for bathing and changing into work clothes. It’s now rented by individuals and groups up to 300 people for weddings, dances, art classes and shows, and for the annual Heritage Fest, a summer event that focuses on Ely’s rich heritage. Proceeds from the event rental go to operating the Pioneer Mine Museum.