Keweenaw National Historical Park — Attraction in Calumet Township

We mistook the NPS headquarters for the visitor's center. A kind park ranger let us in and gave us access and a tour of the building, which is normally not open to visitors. The building was once a magnificent library and swimming pool built for the Calumet community of miners and their families. The ranger talked to us about both and the archival work being done there.

When we were taken to the top floor to see what was once the children's library, we were thunderstruck. It was an absolutely magnificent space and time capsule that showed the incredible care and skill of the master craftsmen who built the library. It's the kind of library bibliophiles dream of and unlike any library we have seen.

Now, sadly, the park service uses the space for storage. We hope this changes, and storage is found in another of the several buildings in the park. The library...

We didn’t know what to expect here but were super impressed by these exhibits. They are great for kids or adults and paint a vivid picture of early life in the Keweenaw. Three floors of detailed, educational, and insightful displays guide you through early life in this region.

There is also a nice gift shop with some unique offerings. The rangers are helpful and informative. There is a cool 3D map showing the elevation of the peninsula that’s also helpful in understanding the region.

As a Michigander who might normally bypass something like this, I’m glad we stopped to learn the detailed history of...

The Keweenaw Peninsula is absolutely one of my favorite places to visit. No matter the time of year it’s beautiful. The Visitor Center in Calumet is a great place to start in order to learn about the area and to discover what there is to see. The Park is relatively new (established in 1992) so many sites such as the visitor center are new additions. There are 21 heritage sites to see, including museums, historical buildings, and mines. Some places are closed in the winter months so make sure to check ahead before you...