Known as "America's most colorful caverns," Ohio Caverns is the largest of all of the state's caverns and is one of Ohio's top tourist attractions. Located underneath a 35-acre park, Ohio caverns contains an abundance of crystal stalactites, stalagmites and diverse, colorful formations. The Crystal King, a five-foot pure white stalactite, is the most famous formation in Ohio Caverns, and is estimated to weigh as much as 400 pounds. Considered to be the most beautiful caverns in the state, Ohio Caverns is a perfect place to visit in order to appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
Parking and Public Transportation at Ohio Caverns
Visitors to Ohio Caverns can park for free in the on-site parking lot. It is best for visitors to travel to the caverns by private car, since the site is located in the country and the nearby village of West Liberty does not have its own public transportation services.
If visitors have no other choice but to take public transportation to the caverns, there is a taxi service called Blue Jacket Taxi that runs out of the city of Bellefontaine, which is a little over 15 minutes from the site.
Best and Worst Times to Visit Ohio Caverns
The best time to visit Ohio Caverns is from April 1-October 31, since that is when both the Natural Wonder Tour and the Historical Tour are available. The park is also open later during this period, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. compared to the regular hours of 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
The worst time to visit Ohio Caverns is from November 1-March 31 because the Historical Tour is not available during that period.
Ohio Caverns is open every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Admission to Ohio Caverns
Each type of tour offered at Ohio Caverns has its own admission price, ranging from $9-$17. If visitors wish to combine the Natural Wonder Tour and the Historical Tour into one, they can save money by purchasing Combination Tour tickets for $15-$29. Children ages four and under can visit the caverns for free.
Tickets can be purchased online or upon arrival at the caverns.
Must See/Do at Ohio Caverns
If it is available, visitors should take the 45 minute Historic Tour, which starts at the original entrance and showcases parts of the caverns that were open to the public from 1897-1925.
Visitors should definitely make a point to go on the 50 minute Natural Wonder Tour, which is the longest tour offered at the caverns and stops at frequent intervals.
After visitors finish touring the caverns, they should stop by the gift shop to purchase a bag of mining "rough" to take part in the gem and fossil mining activity, a favorite part of the Ohio Caverns experience for many visitors.
Other Places to Visit near Ohio Caverns
While still in the West Liberty area, visitors should stop by the Piatt Castles, which are two 19th century castle-like structures called Mac-A-Cheek and Mac-O-Chee.
After spending time underground at Ohio Caverns, visitors can soar over the West Liberty area at Markin Farms Zip Line Adventures. The main course at Markin Farms features a total of 13 zip lines and five high rope challenge areas.
Chocolate lovers should stop by Marie's Candies in West Liberty, which sells a variety of sweet treats, including chocolate covered Oreos, truffles, and peanut butter buckeyes.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Ohio Caverns
No matter what the weather is like outside, the temperature inside Ohio Caverns is a constant 54 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, visitors should plan accordingly and dress appropriately for the temperatures inside and outside of the caverns.
Author's bio: Miranda Roehler grew up in Northwest Ohio. She studied Creative Writing and History at The University of Findlay and has been published in multiple international journals.