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Missouri may be known for its iconic landmarks, but there’s a reason why it has long held the title ‘The Cave State.’ It’s home to over 7,000 stunning caves with wowing and mysterious underground formations. While only a few are open to the public, there’s one that garners the attention of many adventurers, Fantastic Caverns.
This spot lives up to its name, thanks to its delicate flowstones and other natural wonders that add to its splendor. Besides, it’s also the only North American cave that offers ride-through tours, a thoughtful innovation that makes it more unique and accessible. So, what makes visitors flock to this cavern all year round, and is the pricing worth it? Here are more details.
How Long Do Tours In Fantastic Caverns Take?
Touring inside this enchanting cave takes around 55 minutes via jeep trams that pass through an ancient path that was once a river. The jeeps are propane-powered, meaning they emit lower carbon content, unlike petroleum products. The cleaner-burning fuel ensures less environmentally harmful emissions that may jeopardize the life of whatever is in the underground ecosystem.
Through the 55-minute ride, the guides take visitors through the cave formation process. It’s an ideal excursion for older folks, children, and people with physical limitations as there’s no walking involved. Adventurers also have an up-close view of the giant columns and other attractions (more on this below) that leave them enthralled. Thrill-seekers can take the easy one-mile Ozarks nature trail as they wait for their ride.
How Much Do Tours Cost?
The admission prices differ with age and whether adventurers visit the spot as a group. Tickets are available at the Visitor Center, where guides are later assigned to take guests through captivating rides. Here’s a list of the tour prices:
- Adults: $30
- Children aged 6 to 12: $17
- Children under 5: Free
- Adult group: $18
- Child group: $7
- Adult season pass: $35
- Children season pass: $22
Group rates apply for parties of over 20 people, and must be purchased jointly. In addition, vacationers can add $5 more after their ride-thru experience to get season passes. Travelers are free to book tours any time of the year since the temperatures hover at around 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Other essential details visitors should know include:
- Hours of operation: Opens at 8 am and closes at dusk (except Christmas Eve & Day and Thanksgiving Day)
- Directions: 4872 North Farm Road 125, Springfield, Missouri 65803 (easy to spot thanks to the handmade-looking signposts)
What Will Visitors See On Tour?
Fantastic Caverns is home to outstanding features that travelers can admire from the comfort of their seats. The stalactites, which are formations that hang down the cave ceiling, are some top attractions to see here. They are a result of redeposited minerals that develop after countless water drips. Other strange formations are the stalagmites, which, unlike stalactites, rise from the cave’s floor. The rock formations here look hand-carved due to the amazing views they offer.
As advised in most caverns, adventurers should refrain from the urge to touch these formations to avoid inhibiting their growth. And sadly, alter their appearance. The tiny cave pearls, which are camouflaged in the sparkling water, are other striking natural wonders that vacationers with a keen eye will appreciate seeing. Even though they resemble those produced by oysters, they have an intriguing history that the guides explain in depth.
The Hall of Giants, a stunning room filled with giant spiral columns, also makes the entire ride memorable. The decorative formations give a new meaning to magic while allowing holidayers to have a glimpse of what early explorers witnessed. After soaking in the breathtakingly beautiful attractions, travelers can buy some souvenirs at the gift shop to commemorate their visit.
History Of Fantastic Caverns
Although the cavern was formed thousands of years ago, it was discovered by John Knox in late December 1862. He had a hunting bloodhound named Juno, a dog breed known to perceive smell a thousand times better than humans. His excellent sense of smell triggered him to chase a rabbit before getting stuck in an obscured opening. Unaware of the surroundings, Juno barked for help, and the rescue mission led to the discovery of the gorgeous cave.
At this time, there was a civil war, and John decided to keep the treasure a secret to prevent people from using it as a hideaway. Five years later, twelve local women answered a newspaper ad to explore the cave. And their names still exist on the walls to date. There were no traces of human remains or habitation, meaning the spot remained undisturbed until its recognition.
Though private-owned, the owners have done an impeccable job conserving the cavern’s delicate system. Travelers can bring their furry friends for an all-riding experience as the cavern is pet-friendly. After all, there’s no better way to honor Juno, who led to the discovery of this breathtaking gem.
Adventure-seeking travelers looking for a place to try mysterious and hair-raising escapades will love it here. There’s something magical about riding through this cavern. And it’s hard to explain unless visitors explore themselves.