Old Cardinal Gem Mine Tours

Learn about the geological discoveries of times past at Old Cardinal Gem Mine. From the resources excavated to the equipment and techniques used, this place shines a spotlight on an important era of local industry.

You'll soon learn why this Franklin inactive mine site is popular with travelers. If you're looking for other things to keep you busy, Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Rose Creek Mine, and Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine are in the area too. They won't take you very long to get to from Old Cardinal Gem Mine.

Plan a trip to see Old Cardinal Gem Mine

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Holiday Inn Asheville East-Blue Ridge PKWY by IHG

Holiday Inn Asheville East-Blue Ridge PKWY by IHG

3 out of 5
Price was $891, price is now $630 per person
$630
per person
Dec 5 - Dec 8
found 9 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Dallas (DFW) to Asheville (AVL)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,004 reviews)
Breakfast not included. Reservation for two queen beds, gave us room with a king bed. While the sheets were awesome, the comforter was too hot/heavy - a light weight blanket would have been nice.

Reviewed on Oct 13, 2025

The Embers Hotel

The Embers Hotel

4 out of 5
Downtown Blowing Rock
Save 100% on your flight
Price was $1,044, price is now $660 per person
$660
per person
Nov 26 - Nov 29
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
New York (NYC) to Asheville (AVL)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (152 reviews)
A lovely property that blends beautifully with the quaint town of Blowing Rock North Carolina

Reviewed on Oct 11, 2025

Zoka - Modern Mountain Retreat

Zoka - Modern Mountain Retreat

2 out of 5
Save 100% on your flight
Price was $1,572, price is now $1,087 per person
$1,087
per person
Nov 12 - Nov 16
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Greenville (GSP)
No reviews

Reviews of Old Cardinal Gem Mine

5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
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5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

This family operation is terrific. My kids and I really enjoyed the experience and will return again in the future.

Popular places to visit

Mason Mountain Mine

You can enjoy retail therapy at Mason Mountain Mine during your stay in Franklin. Wander the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Mason Mountain Mine

Rose Creek Mine

You can find out about the history of Franklin with a stop at Rose Creek Mine. Wander the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

Rose Creek Mine

Sheffield Mine

Find out about the history of Franklin with a stop at Sheffield Mine. Stroll along the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

Sheffield Mine

Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine

You can find out about the history of Franklin with a trip to Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine. Wander the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine

Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

You can find out about the history of Franklin with a trip to Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine. Wander the riverfront or discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

Angel Medical Center

Though Angel Medical Center might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Franklin while you are here.

Angel Medical Center

Best Lodging Options Near Old Cardinal Gem Mine

Sunsets in the Smokies. Secluded but not remote. 10 minutes north of Franklin.

Sunsets in the Smokies. Secluded but not remote. 10 minutes north of Franklin.

Franklin
Sunsets in the Smokies. Secluded but not remote. 10 minutes north of Franklin.
Farmhouse w/amazing views, game room, fast wifi, new and modern

Farmhouse w/amazing views, game room, fast wifi, new and modern

Franklin
Farmhouse w/amazing views, game room, fast wifi, new and modern
The Farmhouse is located in the Beautiful Mountains of Western North Carolina.

The Farmhouse is located in the Beautiful Mountains of Western North Carolina.

Franklin
The Farmhouse is located in the Beautiful Mountains of Western North Carolina.
Misty Mountain Cozy & Stylish 2BR Cabin w/ Fire Pit near River & Attractions

Misty Mountain Cozy & Stylish 2BR Cabin w/ Fire Pit near River & Attractions

Franklin
Misty Mountain Cozy & Stylish 2BR Cabin w/ Fire Pit near River & Attractions
Golden Grove Cabin - 5-bedroom Mountain Home with Fire Pit, Decks and Privacy

Golden Grove Cabin - 5-bedroom Mountain Home with Fire Pit, Decks and Privacy

Franklin, NC
Golden Grove Cabin - 5-bedroom Mountain Home with Fire Pit, Decks and Privacy
A Little Slice of Smokey Mtn. Heaven - with WIFI

A Little Slice of Smokey Mtn. Heaven - with WIFI

Franklin
A Little Slice of Smokey Mtn. Heaven - with WIFI
Water view home with amazing views, pool table, & EV charger

Water view home with amazing views, pool table, & EV charger

Franklin
Water view home with amazing views, pool table, & EV charger
Dog-friendly, mountain view cabin w/ WiFi, and private W/D

Dog-friendly, mountain view cabin w/ WiFi, and private W/D

Franklin
Dog-friendly, mountain view cabin w/ WiFi, and private W/D
Bhakti Manor Creekside Home

Bhakti Manor Creekside Home

Franklin
Bhakti Manor Creekside Home
See all 1,122 properties in Old Cardinal Gem Mine
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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