No 9 Coal Mine and Museum
Ride 1,600 feet into the mountain on a historic coal train for an immersive journey into the world of anthracite mining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds for a peaceful tour.
No 9 Coal Mine and Museum
Best Time
Beat the crowds for a peaceful tour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride 1,600 feet into the mountain on a historic coal train for an immersive journey into the world of anthracite mining.
"The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and funny, making for an unforgettable experience. "
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mine is cool year-round (50-55°F). Bring a jacket!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ground. Sturdy footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Underground Mine Tour
Inside the No. 9 Mine
Ride a coal train 1,600 feet into the mountain and explore the world's longest-running anthracite mine.
The Museum & Exhibits
Above ground
Discover the history of coal mining with informative displays and artifacts.
The Original Elevator Shaft
Inside the No. 9 Mine
Witness the impressive 900-foot elevator shaft, a marvel of early mining engineering.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Underground Adventure
Dress for the Deep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mine is cool year-round (50-55°F). Bring a jacket!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ground. Sturdy footwear is a must.
⏳ Allow an Hour
The tour and museum visit typically take about 60 minutes.
🤓 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides are often 5th-generation miners with amazing stories!
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mine is cool year-round (50-55°F). Bring a jacket!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ground. Sturdy footwear is a must.
⏳ Allow an Hour
The tour and museum visit typically take about 60 minutes.
🤓 Knowledgeable Guides
Guides are often 5th-generation miners with amazing stories!
🚗 Free Parking Available
Convenient on-site parking makes your visit hassle-free.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum for its authentic and educational experience. The knowledgeable guides, often with deep family connections to mining, are a standout feature, bringing the history to life with engaging stories. The underground tour itself is described as a powerful and unforgettable glimpse into the challenging world of anthracite miners. While the mine is cool year-round, visitors appreciate the affordable admission and free parking.
"Very cool experience. The guide is extremely knowledgeable. It is a serious look at the coal mining industry. There is an excellent museum and video presentation. You ride a coal train into an actual coal mine that is no longer in service. The trip take roughly one hour. It is well worth seeing and feeling what it was like in the cold damp earth. The tour and museum is one ticket."
Thomas Kemmett
"My husband I went on the mine tour 9/14/2025. Our tour guide was Daryl and he was amazing! Not only was he incredibly knowledgeable he was also funny. He has so much information he wanted to share I wish we could have spent hours in the mine listening to him. He is a 5th generation coal miner. His first hand experience paired with the stories from all the generations before him made him the most perfect guide. I am already planning a return trip with the rest of our family. Thank you for such an amazing experience I will never forget."
Danielle Carey
"The visit was an excellent experience. Complimentary parking is available on-site, along with a small but informative museum. Our guide was highly knowledgeable, which made the tour both engaging and enjoyable. As the underground temperature remains quite cool, it is advisable to bring warm clothing. Highly recommended."
Subhasis Adhikary
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum is located in Lansford, Pennsylvania. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available on-site. Many visitors combine a trip here with other attractions in the Pocono Mountains or the nearby town of Jim Thorpe.
Public transportation options directly to the mine are limited. It's best to plan your visit with a personal vehicle or consider ride-sharing services if available in the area.
Follow GPS to the No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum in Lansford, PA. The entrance to the museum and tour departure point is clearly marked.
Yes, it's a popular stop for day-trippers from towns like Jim Thorpe, which is a short drive away. Many visitors explore the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway and then head to the mine.
Absolutely! Consider visiting the historic town of Jim Thorpe, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, or the Old Jail Museum for a full day of exploration in the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is affordable, and the tour and museum are typically included in a single ticket price. Check their official website for the most current pricing information.
It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to ensure your preferred tour time.
The museum is generally open Wednesday through Sunday during the main season, with hours potentially changing towards the end of the year. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date operating schedule.
While the museum is accessible, the mine tour involves riding a train and walking on uneven underground surfaces. Some visitors have managed with walkers, but it's best to contact the museum directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.
Due to the nature of the underground environment and the mine train, wheelchairs are generally not accommodated inside the mine itself. Please inquire directly with the museum for detailed accessibility information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll ride a coal train 1,600 feet into the mountain, guided by knowledgeable individuals (often with deep family ties to mining) who share the history and hardships of anthracite coal miners. You'll see the conditions they worked in, including the mule-way and elevator shaft.
The entire experience, including the museum visit and the underground tour, typically lasts about one hour.
The museum features exhibits on the history of coal mining in the region, artifacts from the mine's operational days, and often a video presentation to provide context.
Yes, the underground temperature remains consistently cool, around 50-55°F (10-13°C) year-round. It's advisable to wear layers or a jacket.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction are essential. You'll be walking on potentially uneven and damp surfaces inside the mine.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has a gift shop that also sells snacks and beverages. For more substantial meals, consider dining in the nearby town of Lansford or the popular tourist destination of Jim Thorpe.
Lansford has local eateries, and the nearby town of Jim Thorpe offers a wider variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to more formal dining. Coal Miners Grill is a local option mentioned by visitors.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the mine area or in designated spots. Check with the museum staff for specific policies.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the mine and museum, but always be respectful of other visitors and the historical environment. Some areas might have restrictions, so check with your guide.
Capture the dramatic entrance to the mine, the interior of the coal train, historical mining equipment, and the museum exhibits. The stark underground environment offers unique photographic potential.
Lighting underground can be dim, so a phone camera with good low-light performance or a dedicated camera with flash might be beneficial for capturing clear shots.
While generally allowed, avoid using flash photography in certain sensitive areas or if it disrupts the tour. Always follow your guide's instructions.
The museum is indoors, so lighting is consistent. For exterior shots of the mine entrance or any outdoor exhibits, daytime hours are best.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Dress everyone in layers, as the mine is cool. Ensure children wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. The tour is about an hour long, which is generally manageable for most kids. The museum also provides a good introduction before or after the mine tour. Consider it a hands-on history lesson that's far more engaging than a textbook!
🎒 Budget Travelers
While there are snacks available for purchase, packing your own picnic or planning to eat at more casual local eateries can further help manage costs. The value you receive in terms of historical insight and a unique experience is considerable for the price.
🤓 History Buffs
Explore the museum's exhibits detailing the evolution of mining techniques and the social impact of the industry. The underground tour itself is an immersive experience, allowing you to walk the same paths as miners from generations past. It's a chance to connect with a vital, yet often overlooked, chapter of American history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Anthracite Coal Mining
Visiting the No. 9 mine offers a tangible connection to this era. You'll learn about the immigrant labor that powered these mines, the dangerous conditions faced daily by miners, and the economic impact coal had on the region. The museum provides context through artifacts, photographs, and stories, while the underground tour allows you to experience firsthand the cramped, dark, and damp environment where these brave individuals spent their working lives.
The mine's operation spanned over 147 years, witnessing immense technological advancements and societal changes. Its closure marked the end of an era for many communities. Today, the No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum serves as a vital educational resource, preserving this critical piece of American industrial history for future generations.
Experiencing the Underground Tour
+1Once inside, you'll be guided by experienced guides, many of whom have direct family ties to coal mining, often being 5th-generation miners themselves. They bring the history to life with personal anecdotes and detailed explanations of the mining process. You'll see the mule-way, where horses and mules were used to haul coal, and learn about the original 900-foot elevator shaft, a significant feat of engineering for its time. The guides emphasize the tough conditions and lifestyle of the anthracite miners, making the experience both educational and deeply moving.
Remember to dress in layers, as the underground temperature is a constant 50-55°F (10-13°C), and wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking on the mine floor. The tour provides a powerful and unforgettable glimpse into the lives of those who worked beneath the earth to fuel a nation.
The No. 9 Museum and Beyond
The museum also serves as the departure point for the mine tours and often includes a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and snacks. Outside the museum, you might find additional exhibits, such as old train cars and mine cars, further enhancing the historical immersion.
Many visitors recommend combining a trip to the No. 9 Coal Mine and Museum with other local attractions. The Pocono Mountains offer a wealth of activities, and the nearby town of Jim Thorpe is a popular destination known for its scenic railway, historic architecture, and charming shops. This makes the No. 9 mine an excellent addition to a broader regional itinerary.
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