Descend into the cool limestone chambers of Niagara Cave near Harmony, MN. Guided tours reveal rare underground waterfalls and fascinating rock formations that make this a standout subterranean adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Visitors should be able to walk over uneven terrain, manage stairs comfortably, and have moderate aerobic endurance.
Wildlife
History
Niagara Cave was discovered in the late 19th century and opened for public tours that highlight Minnesota’s karst geology.
Conservation
The site carefully manages foot traffic and lighting to minimize impact on delicate cave formations and local ecosystems.
Niagara Cave
Descend into the cool limestone chambers of Niagara Cave near Harmony, MN. Guided tours reveal rare underground waterfalls and fascinating rock formations that make this a standout subterranean adventure.
Niagara Cave, located near Harmony, Minnesota, is a publicly accessible show cave offering a variety of guided and specialty tours. The site features a mile-long underground walk that leads visitors past cave formations, an underground stream and waterfall, and a subterranean wedding chapel. Niagara Cave's guided tours highlight 450-million-year-old fossils and unique speleothems while requiring a descent and ascent of 275 stairs.
Tour options include scheduled Guided Cave Tours, Private Cave Tours for groups, Lantern Tours commemorating the cave's 100th anniversary, and select Black Light Tours that showcase naturally fluorescent formations and a 15-minute segment in complete darkness. Black Light Tours are offered on select Saturday evenings and are recommended for children age seven and older.
Niagara Cave maintains safety and accessibility information on site and provides trained guides who lead visitors through the cave passages. The cave experience combines geological education and scenic underground features, making it suitable for families, school groups, and special events. Private tours allow groups to explore the cave with a focused itinerary and include visits to signature features such as the subterranean wedding chapel.
Niagara Cave emphasizes factual interpretation of the cave's natural history and fossil record, and operates as an established attraction in southeastern Minnesota. Visitors should review tour descriptions, age recommendations, and stair requirements when planning a visit. On-site information outlines schedule, group rates, and seasonal hours to help visitors plan. Photography guidelines and safety instructions are provided before tours begin for visitor awareness. Advance reservations are recommended for large groups, please.
Location
Harmony, MN
Southeastern Minnesota show cave
Tours Offered
4 tour types
Guided, Private, Lantern, Black Light
Stair Access
275 stairs
Includes descent and ascent
Family Friendly
Ages 7+
Black Light Tours recommended ages
Select a tour, confirm age and stair details, and check availability for select Saturday evening Black Light Tours.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear
The cave walkways can be damp and slippery; proper shoes improve safety on stairs and wet surfaces.
Bring a light jacket
The cave maintains a constant temperature around 48°F—cool even in summer—so dress accordingly.
Prepare for over 250 stairs
The tour includes significant stair climbing; visitors should be comfortable with moderate physical exertion.
Reserve tickets in advance
Tours are popular on weekends and holidays—booking early guarantees your spot and eases check-in.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Protects feet and reduces slip risk on damp, rocky pathways and stairs.
Light jacket or fleece
Keeps you warm inside the consistently cool cave environment.
all
Water bottle
Stay hydrated before and after the tour; inside food or drink isn't allowed.
Flashlight or headlamp (optional for black light tours)
Useful for specialty tours that include black light or lantern experiences.