Hard to find (and GPS may not work, so be advised!) but once we got there it was very enjoyable. Beautiful views of the mountains on the way. We found staff to be extremely informative and willing to help, and “mining” through the buckets we got as part of the daytime combination package was a RIOT! We felt like kids when we had our raw gems identified as amethyst, emerald, and opal (among others). 2.5 hours well spent; you will not be sorry.

This was an interesting place. My mother in law came to visit us with family from Korea. We had planned a trip to NC so they could see the mountains and fall colors. We planned this excursion bc we couldn't check in to our hotel until after 4. It didn't disappoint! They had so much fun with the gem mining because that is not something they have ever done before. Everyone was helpful and friendly.

My husband and I had a great time here learning about the history and seeing the old equipment that was used. We panned for gems and got some really nice gems to bring home. We also got to buy a gold panning kit to bring home.

We are all seniors without mobility issues. Two of the group had never mined for gems before; loved the experience. We each found a crystal; which impressed us and the green opals were a treasure, since we all knew someone that loved opals. We purchased the combination tickets that were well worth the money. My only regret is that due to an appointment in Charlotte, we were not able to see Crabtree Falls and the overlook from above. Looking forward to another visit to do that. I have been to several other gem mining attractions, but none compare to Emerald Valley. It is very clean and very organized. The staff was very helpful and friendly. We had lunch in Spruce Pines at the Sizzler buffet. Highly recommend it. The food was delicious and very affordable. It was a wonderful day trip for us.

We loved the Gem mining and the day time self guided tours. Everyone was also so nice! The only reason for the lower review is because of the black light tour. It's not a tour. It's really cool for the first few minutes, but that's it. It wasn't a tour, it was all of us in one room of the mine while they used blacklights to show the minerals glowing. Super cool, but not worth it in my opinion.