8 Things To Do Near Meramec Caverns After You Explore Underground Missouri
By Beth Price-Williams|Published September 20, 2021
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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.
Adventure waits around just about every corner in Missouri. Whether we prefer leisurely hikes or relaxing river floats, we can find something that summons our inner adventurer no matter where we live in the state. When you visit Meramec Caverns in Missouri, for example, you can plan a day (or a few days) jam-packed with fun and exciting activities after you’ve visited what’s been called America’s cave.
A tour of Meramec Caverns in Sullivan is pretty much a must-visit destination for Missourians and for travelers. Billed as the “Greatest Show Under The Earth,” the tour of the caverns…
Lasts nearly 1.5 hours and offers an up-close view of the historic caverns that date back more than 400 million years. Discover a plethora of picture-perfect moments as your seasoned tour guides gives you insight into the rich history of the limestone caverns.
An hour and a half can fly by, especially when you’re having fun, but the adventure’s just begun when you’re in Sullivan. You’ll also find a full menu of activities above ground right at or near Meramec Caverns.
If you’re up for some high-flying thrills, for example, buckle into the Caveman Zipline. Soar across the sky on ziplines that stretch as far as 1,200 feet and zoom as fast as 50 miles per hour. The zipline tour also features several swinging sky bridges.
Keep that adrenaline rushing as you face the 40-foot Caveman Climbing Wall. Don’t worry if you’re a novice. The epic climbing wall boasts several difficulty levels, so even the kids can get in on the fun.
Stop for a bite to eat at the restaurant right at the caverns; stock up on all of your favorite candy at Granny’s, the candy store, or go mining for gems.
Having the caverns nestled along the Meramec River offers ample opportunity for getting out on the water with Caveman Floating. The river outfitter offers kayak, canoe, and raft floats that wander six miles down the river. Narrated riverboat rides are also available during the summer.
If you’re still on the prowl for more adventure, hop in the car and make the 15-minute drive to Meramec State Park. There, you’ll find more than a half of a dozen hiking trails, picnic areas, and another cave. Join a guided tour of Fisher’s Cave before checking into the campground for the evening.
Have you done any of the other activities at Meramec Caverns in Missouri? What’s your favorite? Join the conversation in the comments! For more underground fun, plan a visit to Marvel Cave in Branson. (Wait until you see the underground waterfall!)
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