The original farming character of the town was influenced by mining and processing of mineral resources. At the confluence of the Smědá and Sloupský potok, there was already an iron mill in 1512, processing local iron ore or iron ore delivered from other places. Raspenava was famous for the production of iron and arms, in particular in the days of Albrecht of Waldstein. A lime mill on Vápenný vrch was also important. Nowadays it is a significant geological location.

Thanks to its location, Raspenava is a good starting point for excursions to Jizerské hory and Frýdlantský výběžek. It is a good destination for spending a peaceful holiday, because it lies outside busy tourist centres.