Plan Your Visit + FAQs

When is Shenandoah Caverns open?
Shenandoah Caverns is open 364 days a year. We are closed on December 25 for Christmas Day. See “Plan Your Visit” for hours and details.

What does my ticket include?
One ticket price provides admission to Shenandoah Caverns and Main Street of Yesteryear. American Celebration on Parade can be added for an additional fee and is open seasonally. Check our website for hours of operation. The Gemstone Mining Sluice carries an additional charge.

How long does a caverns tour take?
Guided caverns tours take approximately one hour and cover one mile on gravel pathways. Other attractions are self-guided. Most visitors spend 2-3 hours at our Family of Attractions.

Are all tours guided, or can I go by myself?
All Shenandoah Caverns tours are fully guided. You may not tour on your own.

What is a caverns tour like?
Our tour guides provide information about the caverns’ history and formations, as well as answer questions throughout your visit. Your tour guide will turn the lights on and off as you move throughout the caverns.

Can I touch the formations?
It is against Virginia State Law to touch caverns formations. Doing so prohibits future growth and damages the delicate formations. Our tour guides ensure that these regulations are followed to preserve the caverns for future generations.

Does the weather affect the caverns?
No. Shenandoah Caverns remains a constant 56 degrees. All other attractions, except for the Gemstone Mining Sluice, are indoors as well. You can visit any day of the year.

About 80% of our caverns is still active and growing, so you may experience water dripping, but it will not be “raining.” If you experience a drop, it is called a “cave kiss” and is supposed to bring good luck.

Are the caverns handicapped or wheelchair accessible?
This is one of our most frequent questions. According to ADA standards, our caverns are not considered handicapped accessible, even though we have an elevator. Since the caverns are a natural wonder, we cannot make them 100% accessible without destroying their natural qualities.

You must be able to stand and walk one mile and for approximately one hour. The pathway is covered with crushed gravel, with inclines and declines, and has two ramps with handrails.

Wheelchairs can access approximately 80% of the caverns, but someone strong on your tour must be able to push the wheelchair. We do not rent wheelchairs. If you have questions about accessibility, please call us at (540) 477-3115 to discuss details of touring the caverns with a wheelchair, walker or scooter prior to your visit.

Can I bring my pet?
Per Virginia Health Department guidelines, the only animals allowed are ADA service animals – those animals trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. Companion and emotional support animals are not recognized by the ADA as service animals and are not allowed. Please plan accordingly, and do not leave pets in your vehicle.

Do you have ample parking?
We have free parking in our large lot. Tour buses are also welcome.

Does Shenandoah Caverns have a restaurant?
Yes. We have an authentic 1957-era soda fountain in our Caverns Cafe where you can enjoy hamburgers, French fries, BLTs, and a variety of other items. Indoor dining and an expansive outdoor patio are available. Picnic tables are also located around the grounds, where you can enjoy beautiful mountain views.

Can Shenandoah Caverns accommodate tour groups?
Yes. Please contact our Events office to arrange your tour.

Can I hold my wedding ceremony in the caverns?
Yes. We hold weddings in the caverns and in several location throughout our grounds and attractions. Please contact our Events office for details.

Can I stay overnight at Shenandoah Caverns?
Yes. You can book your stay at Earl’s Place, our historic Airbnb, located on our property.

What is the difference between a cave and a caverns?
“Cave” refers to the entire structure; “caverns” refers to the individual rooms within the cave. Shenandoah Caverns contains 17 unique caverns or rooms.

Do you have other questions? Call us at (540) 477-3115. We’ll be happy to help you.