moderate
50 minutes per tour
Suitable for visitors with basic mobility; climbing stairs and walking on uneven surfaces required.
Discover eerie crystal formations and historic passageways on Ohio Caverns’ immersive guided tours near West Liberty. Learn what makes these caves a top underground destination in Ohio.
Located just over an hour northwest of Columbus in West Liberty, Ohio Caverns offers a distinctive underground journey through some of Ohio’s most remarkable cave systems. With four distinct tours—Natural Wonder Cavern Tour, Combo Tour, Historic Cavern Tour, and Winter Cavern Tour—this destination invites visitors to step beneath the surface and witness an otherworldly realm shaped over thousands of years.
Visitors on the Natural Wonder Cavern Tour encounter impressive crystal formations that glisten under carefully controlled lighting, revealing calcite crystals and gypsum decorations rarely found in eastern U.S. caves. The Combo Tour pairs the natural splendor with historical insights, walking guests through both the geology and the human history tied to these caverns.
The Historic Cavern Tour focuses on the early discovery and development of the caves in the late 1800s, complete with stories about the people who first mapped and mined this subterranean world. For those looking for an off-season experience, the Winter Cavern Tour offers a quieter glimpse beneath the earth’s surface, with fewer crowds and guides who bring a touch of humor alongside their geological knowledge.
Ohio Caverns is accessible via well-maintained rural roads, with amenities including free electric vehicle charging and picnic facilities at the visitor center. The caves demand a reasonable level of fitness, involving stairs and narrow passages, but the pathways are wide enough for a mostly comfortable pace. Staff are praised for their friendliness and professionalism, further enriching the experience.
Whether fascinated by geology, history, or simply searching for an unforgettable family outing, Ohio Caverns stands out amid Ohio’s outdoor attractions. Its environmentally conscious operations—including green energy and electric shuttles—complement the natural stewardship of this subterranean landscape. This makes Ohio Caverns a must-visit for anyone curious about the hidden wonders beneath Ohio’s rolling hills.
Low ceilings and narrow passages require careful attention to avoid bumps, especially on the Natural Wonder Tour.
Trails inside can be slippery and uneven; closed-toe shoes with good grip are highly recommended.
Expect climbing over 20 stairs and walking several hundred feet on uneven cave floors, suitable for most fitness levels.
Cave temperatures stay cool year-round, averaging around 54°F (12°C), so dress accordingly to stay comfortable.
Ohio Caverns was discovered in the late 1800s and was one of the first commercial caves opened to the public in Ohio.
The facility operates primarily on green energy and uses electric shuttles to minimize the environmental impact of tours.
Provides good traction for the cave’s uneven, sometimes slippery floors.
Keeps you warm in the consistently cool cave environment.
all specific
Stay hydrated before and after your tour; water isn’t allowed inside the caverns.
Useful for extra visibility in dimly lit passages, though tours provide lighting.