The Best Public Show Caves in Texas

Wonder World

1000 Prospect St. | San Marcos, TX 78666 | 512-392-3760

(30 miles S of Austin, TX)

Known as the first show cave in Texas and reportedly the only commercially operated dry-formed cave in the United States, this 100+ year-old 'slice' of Texas geography was formed by a major earthquake along the Balcones Fault Line. When you complete your tour through this crack in the earth's surface, exit by the Stratavator and ride high to the Tejas Observation Tower or turn topsy-turvy at the anti-gravity house where everything is backwards and the water flows uphill. Board the train through the waterfalls of Mystery Mountain on your way to Texas Wildlife Petting Park or shop at the Mexico World Market.

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Inner Space Cavern

4200 S. IH-35 | Georgetown, TX 78626 | 512-931-2283

(30 miles N of Austin, TX)

Prehistoric mammoth and sabre-toothed cat fossils are said to have been found at this limestone cavern inadvertently discovered in 1963 by the Texas Highway Department during the construction of Interstate 35. Take a trip back in time as you explore nature's beautiful artwork such as The Flowing Stone of Time, the mysterious Lake of the Moon, and the intricate Soda Straw Balcony. Learn the fascinating history, and see otherworldly helictites, ancient flowstones, and giant columns.

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Cave Without a Name

325 Kreutzberg Rd. | Boerne, TX 78006 | 830-537-4212

(35 miles NW of San Antonio)

This cool 66-degree cave consists of six major rooms filled with spectacular formations of stalactites, stalagmites, delicate soda straws, cave drapery, magnificent flowstones, rimstone dams, and more, many of which are highlighted by colorful lighting. How did this location get its name, you may wonder? A state-wide contest was held in 1940, and the $250.00 cash prize was awarded to a young boy who determined that the cave was too beautiful to have a name.

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Caverns of Sonora

1711 PR 4468 | Sonora, TX 76950 | 325-387-3105

(200 miles W of Austin, TX)

Recognized as the most beautiful cave in Texas and one of the most beautiful show caves in the world, this world-class cave contains a stunning array of calcite crystal formations, especially helictites. Bill Stephenson, founder of the National Speleological Society, says, The beauty of the Caverns of Sonora cannot be exaggerated, not even by a Texan. Along with guided tours, you may also enjoy other activities such as gemstone panning, hiking along the nature trail, attending a workshop, camping out in an RV or tent, relaxing in the outdoors, or browsing at the gift shop where the variety of merchandise includes jewelry, stoneware, fossil specimens and even fresh cream and butter fudge.

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Natural Bridge Caverns

26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd. | San Antonio, TX 78266 | 210- 651-6101

The largest commercial cave in Texas and one of the state's most treasured natural attractions, Natural Bridge Caverns invites you to follow one of their knowledgeable tour guides to depths 180 feet below the ground. Options include the Discovery Tour, Hidden Passages Tour, Lantern Tour, Adventure Tours, Hidden Passages Adventure Tour, Watchtower Challenge, Watchtower Zip Line Ride, and Natural Bridge Mining Co. & The Rock Shop.

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Cascade Caverns

226 Cascade Caverns Rd. | Boerne, TX 78015 | 830-755-8080

(35 miles NW of San Antonio)

Still an active formation and Texas' only cavern with an interior waterfall, this cave features millions of glistening drops of pure water falling from the Diamond Ceiling onto spectacular rock formations. Explore the corridors of this comfortable 64 degree environment which is home to several unusual animals including Cliff and Leopard Frogs, Eastern Pipistrelle Bats, and Cascade Cavern Salamanders. Before or after your tour, enjoy the 105-acre RV park and campground area in the Texas Hill Country where you can bring a picnic, enjoy the sounds of nature, hike along trails, or peruse the gift shop.

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Longhorn Caverns

6211 Park Rd. 4 S. | Burnet, TX 78611 | 830-598-2283

(70 miles NW of Austin, TX)

Earliest records indicate that the Comanche Indians were the first to use this cavern, one of the few river-formed caverns created by the dissolving and cutting action of water on limestone bedrock. More recently, the cavern was used as a Confederate stronghold where gunpowder was manufactured in secret during the Civil War, and it is rumored to have been the hideout of Sam Bass, a legendary Texas outlaw. Hear this history of the cave and an explanation of its geology as you experience for yourself natural wonders such as the Crystal City area adorned with calcite crystals and more. The venue also offers a picnic area, historic building, hiking trail, grill/snack bar, gift shop, and visitor center.

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