One of the best spots for history buffs is the Iron County Historical Society Museum. Occupying the county's first courthouse built in 1893, it offers you three floors of displays. The museum's tower strikes the most prominent silhouette on Hurley's skyline and during warm months, the clock continues to chime each hour as it has for more than 110 years.

Volunteers at the museum are often busy at old looms, keeping alive the tradition of hand woven rag rugs that are available for purchase - and you can even order one especially designed to coordinate with the colors in your home.

The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, except holidays, all year. It is located at 303 Iron Street at the south end of Hurley's Third Avenue. Phone: (715) 561-2244 or visit them online:

Iron County Historical Museum Online

Other historical museums within a close distance to Hurley include:

• Mercer Historical Society Museum located in a charming, 1906 wood-constructed railroad depot on Railroad Street operates seasonally. 715-476-9191
• Ironwood Area Historical Society Museum located in the old railroad depot at 150 North Lowell Street. 906-932-0287