This Unique Attraction In Ohio Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year
By Sarah McCosham|Published February 14, 2024
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
Did you know that underneath fields of farmland in southeastern Ohio lies an enchanted natural world millions of years in the making? The Ohio Caverns are literally one of our state’s most glorious hidden gems; and, as the caves are open 363 days a year (the caverns are closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day), this unique attraction in West Liberty, Ohio, makes for a fun day trip no matter the season — or weather!
Located in West Liberty, Ohio, the Ohio Caverns are within an easy two hour's drive of Cincinnati, Dayton, and Columbus -- and a doable day trip from farther-away cities like Toledo, Cleveland, and even Akron.
No matter where in Ohio you live, though, this unique attraction is well-worth seeking out and as the caves are open 363 days a year, you can plan a visit practically anytime!
The Ohio Caverns are a great day adventure for families of all ages. During the summer season, three tours are offered: The Historic Tour, The Natural Wonders Tour and the Combination Tour, which combines both the Historic and Natural Wonders tours. For guests with limited mobility (or younger families) Ohio Caverns offers the Limestone Tour in the summer season with advanced reservations.
When I visited with my crew, we opted for the Natural Wonders Tour, a 45-minute tour perfect for families. The tour entered through a sinkhole (!) and took us through a mile of winding cave 130 feet underground.
Along the way, my kids were speechless at the natural beauty surrounding them: the colorful formations, stalactites and stalagmites. The “Crystal King” formation was incredible, and it’s mind-blowing to think it’s a link to a long-ago past.
So getting to experience a real-life cave, just a quick drive from our home in Cincinnati, Ohio? Needless to say, they were thoroughly impressed... as was I!
A few pieces of advice: layer up! Despite visiting during the summer, we wore jackets and sneakers (the caves are a cool and damp 54 degrees year round) and Harvey brought his headlamp. My kids were better prepared for the caving experience that I was: the narrow spaces (some of the clearings are just over five feet tall!), darkness and wet conditions were a bit challenging at times. (But be assured: everything at Ohio Caverns is incredibly safe and run in a very professional and mindful manner.)
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An entire world of wonder is hiding beneath the bucolic countryside of West Liberty, Ohio! Come and explore the Ohio Caverns for yourself and you'll agree that this truly is the most unique attraction in the Buckeye State.
Have you visited this subterranean attraction in West Liberty, Ohio? America’s Most Colorful Caverns truly are a spectacle to behold and make for a wholly unique day trip in Ohio — any time of year. Visit the Ohio Caverns website for more information and to plan your visit. And if you’re looking for a next-level experience, consider booking a Park Entry & Darkness Caverns Tour Ticket for the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024!
