Explore An Old Coal Mine 400 Feet Below The Surface On This Open Mine Car Ride In Pennsylvania

History leaps alive in so many destinations in Pennsylvania, giving us a unique glimpse into the past and setting our imagination on fire. Whether you know a lot or very little about the state's rich coal mining history, you'll likely find yourself mesmerized when you climb aboard an open mine car for a tour of Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine in Pennsylvania. However, that's just the beginning of the fun that awaits at this historic Pennsylvania destination.

Journey back through the pages of time - and 1,800 feet into the side of Mahanoy Mountain - on the mine tour at Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine in Ashland.

Climb aboard an open mine car for your guided tour that will take you 400 feet below the ground.

Run by a "battery-operated mine motor," the historic mine car will allow you to feel as the miners did many years ago.

Once you arrive underground, you'll get out of the mine car and begin your tour - learning fascinating tidbits about the mine, its history, and coal mining history in Pennsylvania.

The mine maintains a steady temperature of 52 degrees Fahrenheit, so you might want to wear a jacket.

For more fun when you return above ground, go on a scenic train ride aboard the Henry Clay. The locomotive dates back to the 1920s and travels less than a mile around Mahanoy Mountain.

Hungry? Stop by the Jellybucket Cafe for a delicious bite to eat - burgers, hot dogs, chicken, and ice cream fill the menu.

Before you call it a day, take a peek at all of the souvenirs and other goodies - jewelry, books, and toys, for example - that line the shelves.

Head over to the official website of Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine & Steam Train. Or, go here for Facebook.

Have you gone on the open mine car at Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine in Pennsylvania? Share your experience in the comments! Up for more underground fun? Set off on a tour of the Lackawanna Coal Mine in Pennsylvania.