Meramec Caverns In Missouri Was Just Added To A US Travel Bucket List... And We Couldn't Agree More
By Beth Price-Williams|Published January 17, 2020
×
Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Bucket list time! Got yours handy? If not, you’ll definitely want to pull it out, and add Meramec Caverns in Missouri. Yep, the popular destination in Missouri recently made a pretty impressive list – USA Today’s Bucket List of the 60 things you have to do in America before you die. Is it on your bucket list yet? (Even if you’ve already visited, maybe it’s time for another tour?)
Sat along Route 66 in Stanton, Meramec Caverns draw upwards of 100,000 visitors from Missouri and around the globe each year.
The limestone caverns, which date back an estimated 400 million years, boast an impressive history, one reason Meramec Caverns made USA Today's list. That history includes serving as Jesse James' hideout when he was running from the law.
In a state that's home to more than 6,000 caves, Meramec Caverns stands out as the largest commercial cave. It's also an ideal day trip destination, offering tours all year 'round.
Embark on a guided tour, led by a seasoned ranger, of the caverns that stand about seven stories high. The tour follows a lighted walkway and provides plenty of opportunities to snap photos.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour covers approximately 1.25 miles in nearly an hour and a half. If you're traveling with a group, you can request a shorter 45-minute tour.
Meramec Caverns welcomes guests daily, except on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Times, however, vary depending on the season. Click here for the calendar of hours.
The fun doesn't stop when the tour does, especially if you're visiting during the warmer months. Meramec Caverns features a full menu of family-friendly activities, including ziplining tours (March-October), riverboat rides (April-September), and canoe floats as the weather allows.
Have you been to Meramec Caverns in Missouri yet? If not, will you add it to your bucket list? Let us know in the comments! While you’ve got your bucket list handy, consider adding these seven waterfall hikes.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.