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Seneca Caverns
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Historical Landmark
Cavern
Seneca Caverns Description
Even non-spelunkers will be captivated by Seneca Caverns. Visitors climb down steep natural steps into darkened caverns with low ceilings -- mom and dad will need to duck. About twenty minutes into the tour, you'll hit the cave's seventh level, a whopping 11 stories underground. Skip the tour if you or the kids are scared of dark, close places and be prepared to get a little dirty as you climb in and out of each level. For kids not up for the tour, there's a mining attraction where they can pan for semi-precious gems in running water.
Kid Tips
Babies: This is not a baby-friendly attraction. There's not enough room to wear a carrier and you'll need both hands to negotiate the steps.
School-Age Kids: They'll love hearing that it was two elementary-aged kids who first found the cave.
Planning Notes
- Grab a jacket. No matter how high the temperature goes above ground, the cave stays a cool 54 degrees year-round.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Sturdy shoes are best for exploring the cave.
- Have a picnic. Bring some food and eat lunch at the picnic tables next to the souvenir shop.
Just the Facts
Hours: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Open weekends from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. during May, September, and October. Closes earlier during winter; call ahead to confirm.
Fees: Under $10
Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours
Reviews of Seneca Caverns
The Caviest Cave
By Timbitz74 July 01, 2011
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age Kids
Pre-Teens & Teens
What we loved:
natural cave, family atmosphere, friendly people
What we didn't love:
mapquest gave us bad directions
My family and I have visited caves before, but this one is unique. The kids felt like they were truly exploring and my husband said it reminded him of "The Goonies" (if anyone remembers that 80's film). The guide was entertaining; even though it took us 1 hour to travel through 4 levels, it only felt like fifteen minutes. When you visit, you must try the water- it taste great! We will be back next summer! Read More
Caverns Flooded, Call Ahead
By Paul_3rd May 29, 2011
Due to the recent (spring 2011) heavy rains, the Seneca Caverns are flooded. Although the staff attempts to put a positive spin on seeing the flooded caverns, a historical 30 year event, there is nothing to see. Only the first two of seven levels of the caverns are accessible; the third through seventh levels are filled with water. Current tours are of the first two levels with groups of four being taken a short distance beyond level two to see the top of the flooded third level, which is like viewing a flooded cellar. Although a two dollar discount is offered on admission ($12 from $14 for adults) and a free six dollar bag of dirt is provided for gem stone mining, it is not worth the price of admission at this time. According to the tour guide, Emily, the caverns are not expected to dry out until August 2011. If planning to tour the Seneca Caverns this summer, visitors would be advised to call ahead to learn the current extent of the flooding and how many levels are available for viewing. Read More
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