As you’re planning your outings for 2021 (and let’s face it, we are all dying to get out and explore), don’t forget to add some underground wonders to your must-see list. These caves are all within the Dallas area and would make great day or weekend trips. And don’t forget, they are a great way to beat the heat when the temperature climbs.
Inner Space Cavern
This is one of the best-preserved caves in Texas. It has multiple rooms, prehistoric animal bones, and a constant temperature of 72 degrees. They offer a handful of different tours, gemstone panning, and a gift shop that’s famous for its fudge.
Natural Bridge Caverns
Beneath the 60-ft. limestone bridge lies an extensive network of underground passages and caves, discovered by four college students in 1960. Today, the first half-mile of passageway has been developed for public exploration, drawing tourists from all over the world. And if you’d rather stay above ground, try out their zip rails and rope course.
Longhorn Cavern State Park
Visit this state park for the most incredible natural formations you can imagine. This cavern was created by an ancient river that cut through the stone over time. You can take a tour of it and also enjoy all the beautiful architecture built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Wonder World Cave
This cave is the first commercially-operated cave in Texas. It features an incredible view of an earthquake from under the ground. You’ll see fossilized creatures, boulders in mid-air, and an up-close-and-personal view of the Balcones Fault Line. They also offer several other recreational opportunities from an observation tower, anti-gravity room, train ride, petting zoo, and arcade.
Westcave Preserve
This beautiful nature preserve allows visitors to pass through a limestone crevice which leads into a stunning canyon that features lush plant life and a waterfall. There’s also a one chamber room cave to explore on this tour. And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out the self-guided hike on the Uplands Trail that leads through the beautiful Texas savannah.
If you’ve never been spelunking before, be sure to read Travel Channel’s tips before you head out (or rather, down). For other fun things to do in Texas, check out our other blog posts!