Historic Cavern Tour in West Liberty, Ohio
Difficulty
easy
Duration
50 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to navigate stairs and walk moderate distances on uneven surfaces.
Overview
Explore Ohio’s first show caverns on the Historic Cavern Tour in West Liberty. Join a guided 50-minute journey with a shuttle ride, a stair descent, and stories from the early 1900s that bring history alive underground.
Historic Cavern Tour
Available May 1 - September 30 • 50 Minutes • Available in Person Only
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About This Adventure
Embark on the Historic Tour to explore caverns first seen by visitors from 1897-1925. This unique experience includes a shuttle ride to the original entrance, a descent of 44 steps, and fascinating insights from guides about the caverns' discovery. Enjoy a memorable journey through history in just 50 minutes.
Duration
50 minutes
Overview
Take the Historic Tour! The Historic Tour includes parts of the caverns viewed by visitors from 1897-1925. It was re-opened for tours in celebration of the 100 year anniversary of its discovery. The Historical Tour begins aboard a shuttle bus to the original entrance. Guests descend 44 steps into the cavern at the site of discovery. Guides provide information about the discovery and development of the caverns. The tour exits 38 steps back into the visitor center.
PLEASE NOTE: The Historic tour is only offered online as part of the Combo tour. If you would like to buy a ticket for just the Historic tour, you may do so in person any day from May through September.
Park Information
Before and after the tour, spend time in the 35-acre well maintained park, located directly above the caverns. It contains a playground, picnic shelters, picnic areas, EV charging stations, and restrooms. A rock and gift shop is located within the visitor’s center building. It contains souvenirs, clothing, and other unique gifts, along with a wide assortment of rocks, minerals, and fossils.
FAQ Answers
- The Historic Tour has 44 steps down to enter and 38 steps up to exit.
- Strollers are not recommended because the pathway is too narrow in many parts of the caverns. Chest baby carriers or back carriers work great.
- Pets are not allowed in the cavern. Certified service dogs are permitted.
- Food and drink is not permitted in the caverns. It is recommended to bring picnic lunches to enjoy the beautiful park. Snacks are available for purchase in the gift shop.
- Flash photography is welcome but please stay with the group.
- Video recording, tripods, monopods and selfie sticks are not permitted.
- The temperature in the cavern is 54° F year round so bring a jacket or sweatshirt. Closed toed shoes are recommended.
- Parking is FREE every day. Once the main parking lot is full, parking is available just off the main driveway in the grass.
- Complimentary Hybrid and EV charging is also available.
Additional information
You will be given a ticket to hand to the guide upon the start of the tour. The Historic Tour begins outside next to the Historic Tour sign. There is a short bus ride to the entrance.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
Ensure your footwear has good traction for the stair descent and cavern floors.
Bring a light jacket
Cavern temperatures stay cool year-round, so a light jacket is recommended.
Use handrails on stairs
Use handrails carefully when descending and ascending the 44 steps for safety.
Book in advance
Slots for private tours fill quickly, so reserving your spot ahead guarantees availability.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer
- Eastern box turtles
History
Ohio Caverns were first publicly explored between 1897 and 1925, making them Ohio’s oldest show caverns with a rich past tied to early American tourism.
Conservation
Ohio Caverns promotes responsible tourism by protecting fragile formations and educating visitors on preserving underground ecosystems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides good grip and support on the cavern’s steps and walkways.
Light jacket or fleece
Helps maintain comfort in the cavern’s consistently cool temperatures.
all specific
Compact flashlight
Useful for additional lighting, though tours are well-lit.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated before and after your tour, especially on hotter days.
summer specific