Welcome toHibbing, Minnesota, the unforgettable “Town That Moved” and the proud heart of theMesabi Iron Range inSaint Louis County! This captivating city, with a population of around 16,000, offers an atmosphere steeped in industrial history, musical legend, and true Northwoods charm.
Hibbing’s story is one of sheer audacity, in the early 20th century, the entire town picked up and moved two miles south to accommodate the massive iron ore deposits beneath its original site. This history has earned it nicknames like “The Iron Capital of the World” and the home of the“Grand Canyon of the North.”
But Hibbing is more than just iron ore. It is the formative hometown of legendary musicianBob Dylan, and its streets, though not cobblestone, resonate with the resilience and pioneering spirit of its diverse immigrant past. Here, you’ll find grand, historic architecture standing proudly against a backdrop of natural Minnesota beauty.
This comprehensive guide is your essential map to discovering the20 best and most fun things to do in Hibbing, MN. Prepare to explore vast open-pit mines, iconic cultural institutions, beautiful nature trails, and delicious local eateries that make this special destination a must-see for every traveler.
Things to Do in Hibbing, MN
1. Hibbing High School
Hibbing High School
Gaze upon the magnificentHibbing High School, an architectural masterpiece often called the “Castle in the Woods” and a testament to the wealth generated by the early mining boom. Completed in 1924 at a phenomenal cost for the time, the Jacobethan Revival structure rivals collegiate and governmental buildings in grandeur.
The school’s interior is equally stunning, featuring marble staircases, detailed woodwork, and an exquisite auditorium. The auditorium is famous for its three-story stage and one of the country’s two remainingBarton pipe organs, a relic of the Vaudeville era. This lavish design symbolized the community’s commitment to quality education, even after the town’s arduous move.
Visitors can often take aguided tour of the school during the summer months, which is highly recommended to appreciate the architecture and history fully. Call ahead to inquire about tour availability and times; it is a working school during the academic year.
Address: 800 E 21st St, Hibbing, MN 55746
2. Hull–Rust–Mahoning Open Pit Iron Mine View
Hull–Rust–Mahoning Open Pit Iron Mine View
Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of theHull–Rust–Mahoning Open Pit Iron Mine, affectionately nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the North.” This massive, still-operating iron ore mine is one of the world’s largest, stretching over three miles long and two miles wide. Its sheer scale offers a breathtaking testament to the mining industry that built the Iron Range.
TheHull-Rust Mine View provides an exceptional, free overlook of this colossal industrial wonder. Visitors can watch the enormous haul trucks, which look like children’s toys from this vantage point, working to extract the rich taconite ore. Informational plaques detail the mine’s history and its pivotal role in America’s industrial development.
It’s best to visit during the summer months when the viewing center is fully operational, typically from late May to late September. Arriving around midday often offers the best chance to see active mining operations, but check local schedules. This is a must-see historical and geological marvel you won’t find anywhere else.
Address: 611 McKinley St, Hibbing, MN 55746
3. Greyhound Bus Museum
Greyhound Bus Museum
Step aboard history at theGreyhound Bus Museum, dedicated to the origins of the iconic intercity bus line. The Greyhound story began in Hibbing in 1914 when Swedish immigrant Carl Eric Wickman used a Hupmobile touring car to transport miners between Hibbing and Alice. This humble start blossomed into one of the world’s most recognizable travel brands.
The museum features a stunning collection of vintage buses, including a 1915 Hupmobile—the original “bus”—and a 1920s parlor coach. Exhibits trace the company’s evolution through World War II, the Civil Rights era, and into modern transportation, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and historical documents.
Plan your visit to allow time to explore theRoses & Iron Garden on the museum grounds. Check the museum’s website for seasonal operating hours, as it is typically open only from May through September. This unique museum is a must for transportation enthusiasts and American history buffs.
Address: 1201 Greyhound Blvd, Hibbing, MN 55746
4. Bob Dylan’s Childhood Home
Hibbing is the pivotal early-life setting for Robert Zimmerman, the boy who became the Nobel Laureate and music icon,Bob Dylan. Though Dylan left as a young man, the town greatly influenced his formative years and his early music. His childhood home is now a pilgrimage site for fans from around the globe.
The home itself is a humble, well-maintained residence, not an official museum, but a significant landmark. You can walk the quiet residential street where he grew up and reflect on the environment that shaped his artistry. The adjacent street has been aptly renamedBob Dylan Drive in his honor.
Please remember this is a private residence, so photography from the street is appreciated, but respect for the residents and their privacy is paramount. Pair this visit with theBob Dylan Collection at the Public Library for a more in-depth experience.
Address: 2425 7th Ave E, Hibbing, MN 55746
5. Mesabi Trail
Embrace the stunning natural and industrial scenery of the Iron Range by exploring theMesabi Trail, a 135-mile paved, multi-use trail that stretches across northeastern Minnesota. Hibbing serves as a major access point, making it a perfect spot to begin or end a ride.
The trail system is a favorite for bicycling, walking, and in-line skating during the warmer months, connecting numerous Iron Range communities. It offers a unique journey through boreal forests, past sparkling lakes, and alongside massive, silent iron ore pits, blending nature and industrial history in a truly unique way.
AMesabi Trail Wheel Pass is required for bicycling but not for walking. Passes can be purchased online or at local vendors. Check the trail’s map for the Hibbing access point, which is conveniently located near the Greyhound Bus Museum.
Address: Trail access point is near 1201 Greyhound Blvd, Hibbing, MN 55746
6. Hibbing Historical Society Museum
Uncover the incredible story of“The Town That Moved” at theHibbing Historical Society Museum, located within the stately Memorial Building. The museum is the essential starting point for understanding Hibbing’s unique heritage—the forced relocation of the entire town beginning in 1919 to access the iron ore beneath Old Hibbing.
The exhibits feature an impressive array of artifacts, photographs, and historical documents detailing the mining boom, the town’s complex physical move, and the lives of the diverse immigrant communities who settled the area. A notable feature is thescale model of Old Hibbing before its famous relocation.
The museum often offers free admission and is a fantastic, family-friendly way to spend a couple of hours immersed in local history. It’s an excellent resource for a deeper understanding of the sights you’ll see around town.
Address: 400 E 23rd St, Hibbing, MN 55746
7. Paulucci Space Theatre
Look up at the cosmos at thePaulucci Space Theatre, Northern Minnesota’s largest planetarium. Named in honor of Hibbing-born entrepreneur Jeno Paulucci, this facility offers an immersive and educational experience that takes visitors far beyond the Iron Range and into the solar system.
The theatre features state-of-the-art projection systems that present stunning night-sky shows, full-dome films, and multimedia programs on astronomy, geology, and space exploration. It’s a fantastic spot for all ages to learn about science and the wonders of the universe.
Check the current schedule for showtimes, as they vary seasonally. Advance ticket purchase is recommended for popular evening or weekend shows. It’s a great indoor activity for a cold or rainy day.
Address: 1502 E 23rd St, Hibbing, MN 55746
8. Bennett Park
Enjoy the fresh Northwoods air and family fun atBennett Park, a central and beloved green space in Hibbing. This well-maintained park is an essential resource for community recreation and leisure, offering facilities for play and organized sports.
The park features modern amenities including playground equipment, picnic areas, and ball fields. A favorite summertime feature is theSplash Pad, a wonderful spot for children to cool off and play in a safe, interactive water environment.
The park is free to enter and use. It’s an ideal location for a picnic lunch or a relaxing afternoon break, especially if you’re traveling with children who need to burn off some energy.
Address: 520 E 13th St, Hibbing, MN 55746
9. Minnesota Discovery Center (Day Trip)
Take a short drive to nearbyChisholm (about 6 miles) to visit theMinnesota Discovery Center, often called the “Smithsonian of the Iron Range.” This immense, multi-faceted museum and research center is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich history and diverse culture of the Iron Range.
The center features engaging indoor exhibits detailing the region’s geological formation, the history of mining, and the stories of the many immigrant groups—Finns, Slavs, Italians, and others—who built the communities. Outdoors, you can explore historic buildings, gardens, and even take a trolley ride to a former mine site.
Allow at least half a day to fully explore the extensive grounds and exhibits. It’s a fantastic place for all ages and truly illuminates the context of Hibbing’s story.
Address: 1005 Discovery Dr, Chisholm, MN 55719
10. BoomTown Brewery & Woodfire Grill
Experience a taste of contemporary Hibbing atBoomTown Brewery & Woodfire Grill, a popular local spot that celebrates the town’s boom-and-bust history with a modern culinary twist. This restaurant is a go-to for craft beer lovers and those seeking hearty, wood-fired meals.
The menu focuses on delicious, wood-fired pizzas, smoked meats, and a range of inventive pub fare. Their on-site brewery produces a rotating selection of craft beers, perfect for pairing with a meal or enjoying a flight. The atmosphere is energetic and welcoming, making it a great place to meet locals.
Reservations are a good idea on weekend evenings. Don’t leave without trying one of their signature pizzas or a locally brewed pint, a true taste of the modern Iron Range.
Explore more destinations in Minnesota, with our guides on things to do in Hutchinson, things to do in Hinckley and things to do in Nisswa for an unforgettable trip.
Address: 531 E Howard St, Hibbing, MN 55746
11. Bob Dylan Collection at Hibbing Public Library
Delve deeper into the legacy of Hibbing’s most famous son at theBob Dylan Collection housed in theHibbing Public Library. This dedicated exhibit showcases memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts that trace Robert Zimmerman’s life from his Iron Range roots to his global stardom.
The collection provides a fascinating insight into the influences and environment that shaped his early musical development. A favorite photo opportunity for visitors is the life-sizepapier-mâché Bob Dylan sculpture on display.
The collection is free and accessible during library hours. It offers a quieter, more academic complement to visiting his childhood home.
Address: 2020 E 5th Ave, Hibbing, MN 55746
12. Mitchell-Tappan House
Stroll by the stunningMitchell-Tappan House, an impressive example of turn-of-the-century architecture that speaks to the wealth and ambition of Hibbing’s early mining elite. Built for a prominent mining engineer, the house is a visual landmark of the city’s “Iron Range Gem” status.
The opulent structure showcases intricate detailing and large-scale craftsmanship, a fascinating contrast to the industrial reality of the nearby mine. Though typically not open for tours, its exterior is a worthy stop for architecture and history enthusiasts.
The house and its carriage house are often admired for their well-preserved condition and the glimpse they offer into the high society of the early 20th-century mining town. It stands as a beautiful reminder of Hibbing’s prosperous past.
Address: 1000 E 21st St, Hibbing, MN 55746
13. Carey Lake Recreation Area
Escape to nature atCarey Lake Recreation Area, a beautiful spot just outside of Hibbing that offers year-round outdoor enjoyment. The lake and surrounding parkland provide a peaceful contrast to the industrial landscapes of the town center.
In the summer, the area is popular for swimming at the public beach, fishing from the pier, and non-motorized boating, such as kayaking and canoeing. Numerous hiking and walking trails wind through the woods, offering scenic views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
This is a fantastic place for a family outing or a peaceful solo retreat. Parking is available, and it’s easily accessible via a short drive or bike ride from town.
Address: 25th St, Hibbing, MN 55746
14. Sammy’s Pizza & Restaurant
Indulge in a beloved Iron Range culinary tradition atSammy’s Pizza & Restaurant, a regional institution with deep roots in Hibbing. Since 1954, Sammy’s has been serving up its unique, thin-crust Italian-American pizza, becoming a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
Their pizza features a distinctly cracker-thin crust, a sweet, rich sauce, and unique sausage topping, a flavor profile that is quintessentially Iron Range. Beyond pizza, they offer classic Italian dishes, making it a satisfying, family-friendly dining experience.
This place is known for its consistency and quality—it’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner. Be sure to order your pizza with the local favorite, extra cheese and sausage!
Address: 106 E Howard St, Hibbing, MN 55746
15. The Red Ore Shoppe – Tourist Center
Stop byThe Red Ore Shoppe, which also serves as the Hibbing Tourist Center, for essential local information, unique souvenirs, and a taste of the region’s distinct ethnic foods. This hidden gem is a perfect place to connect with the local community.
The shop offers locally-made crafts, unique Hibbing and Iron Range memorabilia, and a fantastic selection of regional food items. Here, you can find traditional ethnic delicacies likepotica (a Slovenian nut roll),sarmas (cabbage rolls), andpasties (savory meat pies), specialties brought by European immigrants.
This is a great place to pick up a meaningful souvenir and try an authentic Iron Range treat. Ask the friendly staff for insider tips on local events or attractions.
Address: 4225 9th Ave W, Hibbing, MN 55746
16. Hibbing Memorial Building & Ice Arena
The impressiveHibbing Memorial Building is a community centerpiece, constructed in the 1930s as a civic and recreational hub. It stands as a proud tribute to local veterans and remains a vital part of Hibbing’s public life.
Inside, the building houses theHibbing Historical Society Museum (see #6) and theHibbing Ice Arena. The arena is a cornerstone of the town’s passionate hockey culture, hosting local games and ice-related events. Minnesota is the “State of Hockey,” and this arena is where many local legends get their start.
Check the local event calendar for public ice skating times or to catch a high school hockey game—a true slice of Minnesota life.
Address: 400 E 23rd St, Hibbing, MN 55746
17. Sax-Zim Bog (Day Trip/Hidden Gem)
For a truly unique Northwoods experience, take an excursion to theSax-Zim Bog, approximately an hour’s drive south of Hibbing. This massive, protected bog ecosystem is recognized as one of the premier birding destinations in North America, particularly during the winter months.
The bog is home to over 240 species of birds, including unique Northern species like the Great Gray Owl, Northern Hawk Owl, and Boreal Chickadee. The area has established trails and viewing platforms, making it accessible for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Thebest time to visit is winter for the sought-after owls, though the bog offers unique nature experiences year-round. Bring warm clothing, a pair of binoculars, and a quiet demeanor to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
Address: 8793 Owl Ave, Meadowlands, MN 55765
18. Mesaba Country Club
Enjoy a relaxing round of golf at theMesaba Country Club, offering a beautiful and well-regarded 18-hole course near Hibbing. This is a perfect leisure activity, allowing visitors to appreciate the rolling hills and wooded landscape of the Iron Range.
The course is known for its challenging layout, mature trees, and excellent maintenance, providing a memorable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The club also features a pro shop and a dining area, making it a comfortable spot for a full afternoon outing.
Tee times are recommended, especially during peak summer weekends. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the great Minnesota outdoors and a staple of local recreation.
Address: 415 E 51st St, Hibbing, MN 55746
19. Palmers Tavern
For a taste of authentic Hibbing nightlife and comfort food, stop byPalmers Tavern. This local favorite offers a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere and a menu of hearty classics that are perfect after a day of exploring.
Palmers is famous for its delicious burgers, crispy fried appetizers, and a welcoming bar environment. It’s the kind of place where locals gather, offering visitors a genuine look into the community spirit of the Iron Range.
It’s an excellent choice for a late-night bite or a casual dinner. Ask a local about their favorite item on the menu, you’re sure to get a passionate recommendation.
Address: 1717 3rd Ave E, Hibbing, MN 55746
20. Serenity Spa & Salon
Take a moment for rejuvenation and self-care atSerenity Spa & Salon, a local spot offering a range of therapeutic and pampering services. After walking through the vast mine view and cycling the Mesabi Trail, you’ll appreciate a chance to relax and unwind.
The spa provides services typical of a full-service salon, including hair treatments, nail services, massages, and facials. It’s the perfect, accessible retreat to refresh your mind and body during your travels.
Booking an appointment in advance is highly recommended, especially for massage or specialty services, to ensure you get your desired time slot. It’s a wonderful way to cap off a busy travel itinerary.
Address: 4225 9th Ave W, Hibbing, MN 55746
Are you planning a road trip to Minnesota? Don’t miss our guide on things to do in Willmar, things to do in Rogers and things to do in Plymouth for a fun time.
Conclusion
Hibbing, Minnesota, is a truly unique destination, a town built on a foundation of iron, relocated by sheer industrial necessity, and forever linked to an era of American industrial might and the birth of a musical genius. Its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it an irresistible stop on any Minnesota travel itinerary.
From the breathtaking, colossal scale of theHull–Rust–Mahoning Open Pit Iron Mine to the nostalgic allure of theGreyhound Bus Museum and the architectural splendor ofHibbing High School, the city offers a continuous sequence of compelling stories. The trails and parks invite you to explore the natural environment, while the local eateries welcome you with hearty, regional flavors.
