Quincy Mine-Houghton
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Take a Tour of the Quincy Mine This Summer

Located in Hancock, Michigan, Quincy Mine is a set of copper mines in operation from 1846 through 1945. The site of the mine today is a significant tourist attraction. It offers a look into the history of copper mining.

Quincy Mine-Houghton
Quincy Mine | photo via fmarsik_photo

About Quincy Mine Tours

If you are looking for a unique place to visit in Michigan during the summer, Quincy Mine is a perfect choice. Here you can go on a guided tour of the historic copper mine.

You will be able to view the Quincy 2 Shafthouse built in 1908, the miner’s memorial house, and take a look at the Nordberg Steam Hoist, which is the largest steam-powered hoist that has ever been built.

The full mine tour includes a personalized walking tour that lasts approximately two-and-a-half hours. Tours are available throughout the day on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the “off-season” and seven days a week during the summer months.

Quincy Mine-Houghton
Quincy Mine | photo via fmarsik_photo

Guests are encouraged to wear appropriate attire (jacket, long pants, and close-toed shoes with good traction) as the mine can be cold, damp, and muddy.

Two tour options are available – above-ground only and full tour. While children are welcome, the guided tours may not be suitable for young children. Advanced reservations are highly recommended due to the tours’ popularity.

Quincy Mine
photo courtesy of @croussaintdeliciousross

Quincy Smelter House

Another excellent touring option while you are in the area is the Quincy Smelter House. Make sure you go early as the tours only run from 11 am until 2 pm.

The tour takes you through a former industrial site, and you will be asked to wear appropriate shoes as well as a hard hat and safety glasses. This is a great way to learn more about the area.

Quincy Mine
photo courtesy of @kelli929kelli

McLain State Park

After visiting the mine and the smelter house, you are going to want to get outside and enjoy the gorgeous beach found at McLain State Park to enjoy the rest of your day.

This wonderful state park has several fun activities for you to enjoy. You can simply take in all the sites on the two miles of sandy beaches along Lake Superior or bring your fishing poles and try your luck at catching a big one.

The park also offers a great place to windsurf. Another fun activity offered at McLain State Park is berry picking. You will not be disappointed in the fresh, great-tasting berries you can get here.

Sunset At Mclain State Park
Sunset at McLain State Park

Copper Harbor Trails

If you are a biking enthusiast and are ready for an adventure, you will not want to miss biking on the Copper Harbor Trails. These trails provide over 37 miles of single track through the forests overlooking Lake Superior.

These trails are not for the faint of heart, and you should be very comfortable on your bike if you plan on taking a trip through these magnificent forests.

Keweenaw Mountain Lodge Copper Harbor Trails Fest - Copper Harbor, Michigan
Keweenaw Mountain Lodge Copper Harbor Trails Fest | photo via Copper Harbor Trails Club on Facebook

Best Places to Eat

After a long day of tours and outside activities, you are going to want to enjoy a great meal. Some really excellent restaurants are located in Hancock for you to sit back, relax, and enjoy some good food.

Gemingani’s

If you are in the mood for Italian, Gemignani’s is a fantastic choice. You cannot go wrong with their fantastic garlic bread alongside a classic Italian dish.

The chicken piccata is a favorite, and for those pasta lovers, you really cannot get anything better than their garlic shrimp rigatoni.

Nutini’s Supper Club

For those who want a casual option, Nutini’s Supper Club is a great choice. Here you can relax with a great drink and enjoy some of the best pizza in the area. Nutini’s Supper club also offers some terrific sandwiches and some great Mexican dinners.

Not only will you get a great dinner, but there is often entertainment at the restaurant as well, including open mic nights and trivia nights.

Kangas Cafe

For a great breakfast or lunch option, try out Kangas Cafe. The cafe is open from 8 am until 2 pm Monday through Friday.

A yummy Denver omelet is a great way to start your day off right, and if you are there for lunch, you cannot go wrong with any of their great sandwiches.

Lodging Near Hancock

With so many great things to do and see in Hancock and the surrounding Houghton County area, you may want to extend your visit. Here are a few options of places to stay near Hancock:

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