Discover the Sterling Hill Mine Tour in New Jersey

Sterling Hill Mine is one of New Jersey’s most fascinating industrial heritage sites — a former zinc mine transformed into a world-class museum. Visitors walk deep into the underground tunnels, explore historic mining equipment, and witness the famous glow-in-the-dark fluorescent minerals that make the region globally renowned.
Why it’s special: It is the last working underground mine in New Jersey, now preserved as a museum showcasing geology, mining history, and an extraordinary fluorescent mineral collection.

History/Story of Sterling Hill Mine

Operational from 1830 to 1986, Sterling Hill was one of the oldest continually operated zinc mines in the United States. The mine supplied essential materials for industry, war efforts, and construction. After closing, former miners and educators preserved the site, converting it into a museum featuring intact tunnels, large-scale mining machinery, mineral galleries, and educational exhibits. Today it is an essential destination for geology lovers and families.

What You’ll See & Do

• Take a guided underground mine tour through original tunnels

• Experience the legendary Rainbow Tunnel, illuminated with fluorescent minerals

• Visit the Zobel Exhibit Hall, showcasing thousands of mineral specimens

• Explore mining machinery, drilling equipment, and ore carts

• Learn how miners worked, lived, and extracted zinc ore

• Enjoy outdoor exhibits, including giant drills, haul trucks, and a mining conveyor

• Visit the gift shop for minerals, fossils, and educational kits

Visiting Information

Hands-On Elements

Visitors can touch certain mineral samples, feel the rough mine walls, observe blacklight demonstrations, and handle geological specimens during educational programs.

Photo/Video Policy

Photography is welcome throughout much of the museum and mine. Flash photography may be limited inside the underground tunnels.

Souvenirs & Extras

• Fluorescent mineral specimens

• Fossils, gemstones, and educational rock kits

• Books, souvenirs, and mining-related gifts

• Special events like mineral collecting days and fossil hunts

Practical Info

Tours depart at set times and require visitors to arrive early. The underground temperature remains about 56°F year-round, so a jacket is recommended. The walking tour covers uneven surfaces, so sturdy shoes are essential. A full visit lasts 2–3 hours including exhibits.

Pricing

• Public Mine Tour: approx. $15–$20 per person

• Children (4–12): discounted

• Under 4: free

• Special tours or collecting events: priced separately

Nearby

• Franklin Mineral Museum

• High Point State Park

• Lake Mohawk shops and dining

• Sussex County nature preserves and hiking areas

FAQs

How long is the underground tour?

The guided mine tour generally lasts 60–75 minutes, followed by time in exhibit halls.

Is the mine cold?

Yes — it stays around 56°F year-round, so bring a light jacket.

Do I need reservations?

Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

Are children allowed?

Yes — kids enjoy the fluorescent minerals and hands-on exhibits, though the underground area may feel dark or loud for some.

Can I collect minerals?

Yes — on select days, the museum offers paid mineral-collecting events.