Herkimer Diamond Mines

"Our family had so much fun poking around the mine searching for crystals. The tiny ones were pretty easy to find, the larger ones were harder and felt like just luck. We visited late morning in July, and it quickly got HOT, and there's no shade so we weren't out long before my 3 year old was over it. On a less hot day we could've been out for a lot longer. My littles also enjoyed buying a bag of gems to sluice at the shop, and we had lunch right there which was very good. The mine is above ground, more like a quarry. It's rocky ground, so I recommend good footwear. You can rent hammers and chisels right there. We brought gloves, we'd definitely come back and bring eye protection and a bucket as well."

"We had an amazing time! It was more than worth the 3 hour drive up! We found some small “diamonds” but mostly quartz which were still beautiful, definitely bring eye protection and gloves. I also had ear plugs in that really helped since it gets noisey I want to specially shout out the employee Christopher! I have some hip issues and use a mobility aid and he was super helpful without me even asking! He brought me some water and offered to drive me back up the path if I needed, he also was great at explaining the area since it was our first time there, it was super informative and helpful! I will definitely be back again, it was such a fun experience!"

"Very nice place been twice here. Pick a day that isn't sunny or bring alot if sun gear! In the part you dig! Nice shop they have to buy some gems and diamonds. You can bring your own gear or rent from them."

"Went as a group with part my sons boyscout troop. It was a lot of fun, and the kids and I loved it. We found a few diamonds and lots of other fun finds. The only recommendation i would say is its in an open area so be prepared with sunscreen, water, and a umbrella maybe for some shade for breaks or there are areas to hang in shade up back near store. By afternoon i was roasting in the mine area and needed a shade break. Also you may want to bring a chisel and a hammer to save some cash! You can rent Hammers. Overall highly recommended and I will be back!"

"It was a fun experience, but don’t expect to find any ‘diamonds’. I picked up a few crystals and enjoyed the my time. I’d recommend eye protection and gloves if you’re able to plan ahead. Ear protection would probably be a good idea too!"