Mining & Industry
The versatile beauty of Iron Range locations include access to conifer
forests on the periphery as well as open spaces reminiscent of middle
America from a time gone by. With a rich history in mining and timber, the
Iron Range allows for splendid vistas and numerous backdrops for filming
while also providing entertainment and lodging for cast and crew while on
location. There are topographical treasures to explore and embrace for
production — abandoned mines, heavy machinery and the relics of the area’s
industrial commercial history — providing a landscape and canvas that add
depth for production value.
Historic Culture
The Range is rich with its own culture. Virginia’s former opera house is
today’s Lyric Center for the Performing Arts, giving the city an edge for
providing local color and extra casting opportunities while entertaining
visitors. The neighborhoods of the city and its downtown have a small-town
feel with charming architecture and unique flourishes.
Nostalgic Scenery
Grand Rapids, the home of America’s sweetheart, Judy Garland, is full of
early 20th-century charm, including Old Central High School. Small-town
nostalgia abounds.
Small-town Charm
From Hibbing and Chisholm to Eveleth, Ely and Virginia, this region
features amazing destinations and is considered ‘hockey country.’ And
rightfully so. Eveleth is home to the Hockey Hall of Fame and the World’s
Largest Hockey Stick. Throughout the region, you’ll find pop-up surprises
around nearly every corner — charming diners, local color and unique
opportunities for storytelling.
Trails & Nature
The Mesabi Trail runs through Gilbert and past the clear waters of Lake
Ore-be-gone. In addition to providing untouched locales for production, the
area provides great local dining and entertainment.
Endless Opportunities
From the dramatic ridges of iron-rich, big-sky land to forests brimming
with stunning fall colors, wildlife and, of course, access to the
never-ending possibilities and beauty of Lake Superior, Minnesota’s Iron
Range is a rich amalgam of plot lines, stories and characters waiting to be
discovered, developed, and enjoyed by audiences. The Range Regional
Airport provides an accessible and convenient point of arrival and
departure directly for casts and crews.
Sources
Sources: City of Duluth, City of Superior, Minnesota Iron Range Tourism
Bureau, Visitor Guide to Minnesota’s North Shore of Lake Superior
