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Unearth History at Reed Gold Mine: A Glimpse into North Carolina's Gold Rush

Explore the historic Reed Gold Mine in Midland, NC, and unearth the treasures of America's gold mining history.

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Discover the fascinating history of gold mining at Reed Gold Mine, where visitors can explore the site of the first documented gold find in the United States. From guided tours to panning for gold, this historical site offers a unique and engaging experience for tourists of all ages.

A brief summary to Reed Gold Mine

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring the mine.
  • Bring a small container if you wish to keep any gold you pan during your visit!
  • Check the schedule for guided tours to enhance your understanding of the site.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Boone, NC, take US-421 S for about 14 miles until you reach US-321 S. Merge onto US-321 S and continue for about 10 miles. Take the exit for I-85 S toward Charlotte. After approximately 20 miles, take exit 49 for NC-24 E/NC-27 E toward Midland. Continue on NC-24 E/NC-27 E for about 10 miles, then turn left onto Reed Mine Rd. Follow Reed Mine Rd for about 1 mile, and you will arrive at Reed Gold Mine, 9621 Reed Mine Rd, Midland, NC 28107.

  • Public Transportation

    There are limited public transportation options directly to Reed Gold Mine. You can take a Greyhound bus from Boone to Charlotte, NC. Once in Charlotte, you can use a rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) or rent a car to reach Reed Gold Mine. The ride from Charlotte to the mine is approximately 30 minutes via I-85 S.

  • Rideshare

    If you are in the High Country area, you can use rideshare services (like Uber or Lyft) to reach Reed Gold Mine. Simply input the destination as 'Reed Gold Mine, 9621 Reed Mine Rd, Midland, NC 28107' in the app, and the driver will take you directly to the location. The cost may vary depending on your starting point, but expect to pay around $30-$50 from surrounding towns.

Unlock the Best of Reed Gold Mine

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Discover more about Reed Gold Mine

Reed Gold Mine, located in Midland, North Carolina, is a captivating historical site that invites visitors to delve into the rich legacy of the American Gold Rush. Established in the 1830s, it is known as the location of the first documented gold find in the United States, an event that sparked a gold rush and forever changed the landscape of the region. The mine offers a unique experience, combining education and adventure through its informative exhibits and engaging guided tours. Visitors can wander through the remnants of the mine, where they can witness firsthand the methods used by miners during the 19th century. The site features a well-preserved visitor center, showcasing artifacts and historical displays that detail the story of gold mining in North Carolina. One of the highlights of a visit to Reed Gold Mine is the opportunity to pan for gold, allowing tourists to feel like real miners as they sift through the waters in search of the elusive precious metal. This hands-on experience is particularly popular with families, making it a fun and educational outing for all ages. The surrounding area is also picturesque, with beautiful landscapes that provide a serene backdrop for a day of exploration. Open year-round, Reed Gold Mine is easily accessible and an excellent destination for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in America's mining past. With guided tours available, knowledgeable staff are on hand to share stories and insights about the site’s historical significance, making every visit a memorable journey into the heart of North Carolina's gold mining heritage.

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