Just a short 25-minute drive north of Columbus, Olentangy Caverns in Delaware County stands out as a unique destination for a day trip from Columbus, Ohio. This hidden gem invites visitors to explore a world of natural beauty and family-friendly activities, offering a memorable experience for all ages. Open from late March through October, there are plenty of opportunities to explore this natural wonder. In 2025, Olentangy Caverns is celebrating its 90th anniversary, kicking off its season on March 22.
Source: Olentangy Caverns
A highlight of your visit to Olentangy Caverns is the exploration of the caverns themselves. At the beginning of the tour, you'll find yourself in a museum filled with historical displays, intriguing stories, and a variety of artifacts related to the caverns. Then you'll descend 105 feet below the surface (down 58 stairs) and enter a maze of stunning limestone formations sculpted over millions of years by an ancient river. The caverns offer a fascinating glimpse into the Earth's geological history, with winding passages and rooms perfect for exploration.
The self-guided tour, which takes about 30 minutes, allows you to move at your own pace. Equipped with a map and audio boxes, it provides engaging details about the caverns' history and geology, making it both educational and flexible—ideal for families with children. Cavern tour tickets range from $8.95 to $11.95. All access passes start at $24.99.
Source: Olentangy Caverns
Olentangy Caverns hosts a variety of events throughout the year including cave yoga. Learn more.
What to Expect at the Caverns
When planning your visit, keep in mind that the cave entrance is accessed via a stairwell with 58 steps, so comfortable shoes are a must! The cave's temperature remains consistently cool at around 54 degrees, so be sure to pack a light jacket in case you get chilly.
Source: Olentangy Caverns
Outside the cave, Olentangy Caverns offers a variety of activities that make it a standout destination near Columbus. One of the main attractions is the 50,000-square-foot hands-on animal encounter area. Most of the animals are fed through a gate, but once you're done feeding them, you can enter their enclosures for a closer visit. The deer are particularly popular for their gentle nature and eagerness to approach visitors.
Gem mining at Olentangy Caverns. Source: Facebook.
Nearby Activities
In addition to the animal encounters, Olentangy Caverns offers a range of exciting activities. Challenge yourself on the miniature golf course or dive into the treasure hunt maze, which features special prize stops for added fun. At the gem mining station, you can search for your own treasures, while younger visitors will love the wooden playground. This playground includes swings, slides, and a retired fire engine, complete with a custom-made slide for extra thrills. The Bigfoot Walking Trail provides a nearly one-mile nature hike through dirt and grassy terrain, offering chances to spot local wildlife, identify trees, or simply enjoy the great outdoors. You'll also find locally carved wooden statues along the trail, adding a unique touch to your hike.
To make the most of your day, consider packing a picnic. There are shelters, picnic tables, and green spaces throughout the grounds where you can relax and enjoy your meal. In addition to its many family-friendly activities, Olentangy Caverns also hosts seasonal events and cave yoga sessions. Before you leave, don’t forget to stop by the rock and gem shop, where you can find amethyst cathedrals, geodes, gemstone jewelry, and more.
Source: Olentangy Caverns
A short drive will take you to Highbanks Metro Park for more outdoor adventure. Named for its impressive 100-foot-high shale bluff overlooking the Olentangy State Scenic River, the park offers trails, playgrounds, and a nature center for further exploration.
Olentangy Caverns is a great day-trip activity for families! Share your memories with us using #yesColumbus and find more family fun in Columbus.
