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Discover the Tour-Ed Coal Mine & Museum in Pennsylvania

Experience Pennsylvania’s mining heritage firsthand at the Tour-Ed Coal Mine & Museum in Tarentum, just outside Pittsburgh. This immersive attraction lets visitors descend hundreds of feet underground into a real 1850s coal mine — guided by retired miners who share authentic stories of what life and labor were like beneath the earth’s surface.

Above ground, the Coal Mine Museum features rare mining equipment, photographs, and educational exhibits about the history of coal in Western Pennsylvania — the fuel that powered America’s Industrial Revolution. The combination of storytelling, preserved technology, and authentic setting makes Tour-Ed one of the region’s most memorable historic tours.

Why it’s special: This isn’t a replica — it’s a genuine mine carved into a hillside over a century ago. With real miners as guides, you’ll get a powerful, personal perspective on the people who helped build modern America.

History of Tour-Ed Coal Mine

The Tour-Ed Mine was originally a working bituminous coal mine dating back to the mid-1800s, when coal fueled local homes, trains, and steel mills. After closing to production, it was preserved and opened to the public in the 1960s by a group of former miners who wanted to share the story of their profession with future generations.

Today, operated by the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) and the nonprofit Keystone Coal Mining Historical Association, the site serves as both a museum and educational resource for schools and travelers exploring the industrial roots of Western Pennsylvania.

What You’ll See & Do on the Tour-Ed Coal Mine Tour

Ride a mine car deep into the hillside through the original coal seam.
Experience a guided underground tour led by retired miners explaining tools, conditions, and daily routines.
See authentic mining equipment, lamps, and safety gear used through different eras.
Explore the above-ground museum, featuring mining artifacts, vintage photographs, and geological displays.
Learn how coal mining shaped communities across Pennsylvania’s “Coal Country.”
Visit the replica mining camp and machinery exhibits outside the mine entrance.

Hands-On Elements: Touch real coal seams, handle mining tools, and view live demonstrations of equipment.
Photo/Video Policy: Allowed in outdoor and museum areas; limited photography underground for safety.
Souvenirs & Extras: Gift shop with coal samples, miner helmets, books, and locally made crafts.

Pricing of the Tour-Ed Coal Mine Tour

Adults: $15
Children (ages 6–12): $10
Children under 6: Free (must be accompanied by adult)
Group Rates: Discounts for 15+ guests with reservation
School Groups: Special educational tours available year-round

Practical Info for Visiting Tour-Ed Coal Mine

Duration: 60–75 minutes
Format: Guided underground tour and museum visit
Schedule & Seasonality: Open May through October, Friday–Sunday, 11 AM – 4 PM; closed winters
Audience: Families, students, history enthusiasts, and adventure travelers
Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible (uneven surfaces and stairs in the mine)
Safety & Restrictions: Hard hats provided; sturdy shoes and light jackets recommended (underground temp ~55°F year-round)
Languages: English (group tours in Spanish available with notice)
Group & School Visits: Educational bookings encouraged; flexible times available for large groups
What to Bring/Wear: Closed-toe shoes, jacket or sweater, camera for outdoor exhibits
Facilities: Museum building, picnic area, restrooms, gift shop, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed November–April and during severe weather

Nearby

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium – 25 minutes away in Highland Park.
Allegheny River Trail – Great for biking or scenic walks near Tarentum.
Kittanning Citizens Bridge & Overlook – Beautiful views of the Allegheny River Valley.

FAQs About Visiting Tour-Ed Coal Mine & Museum

Do I need a reservation?
Walk-ins are welcome for small groups during open hours, but advance reservations are recommended for groups of 10 or more.

How deep is the mine?
Visitors travel about ½ mile underground through the original coal seams carved in the 1800s.

Is it cold inside the mine?
Yes — temperatures stay around 55°F year-round, so bring a light jacket or sweatshirt.

Is the tour safe for children?
Yes! Kids over 5 can safely tour the mine under adult supervision. The guides are excellent storytellers and tailor their explanations for families.

Can I take photos underground?
Photography is permitted only in designated safe areas. Flash and tripods are not allowed.

Is the mine wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, due to the historic structure and terrain, the underground portion is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour for safety reasons.

Is there food available on-site?
There’s no café, but visitors can bring packed lunches and use the outdoor picnic area near the museum.