Your Guide to a Full Day
in Luray Caverns

How to make the most of your stay in
‘Geology’s Hall of Fame’

Imagine descending underground to discover illuminated pathways that lead you through cathedral-sized rooms dominated by towering stone formations, with natural wonders at every turn. This is Luray Caverns, the largest cavern in the eastern United States. Spanning 64 acres (26 hectares), it is also one of the most visited caverns in the country – a bucket list addition, for certain. Thrill seekers, nature lovers and view chasers, here is your full-day itinerary to visiting Luray Caverns.

Morning: Tour the Caverns

For the full experience, register ahead for a one-hour Discovery Tour, starting at 8:30am and told through the eyes of an 1870s guide. Self-guided tours are also available and take a little over one hour, though you are advised to allow more time to make the most of this subterranean experience. Make your way down the winding, paved path that leads to the cave’s entrance. There is much to see in the depths, so take your time. Inside, you’ll encounter stone formations created over thousands of years. Visitors often say, ‘walking through the caverns feels unlike any place on Earth’. Listen closely for the Great Stalacpipe Organ – the world’s largest musical instrument – where the cavern itself becomes the instrument, filling the space with ethereal tones produced by gently tapping the ancient stalactites. Also in the caverns is the Wishing Well, a natural formed pool, so be sure to bring some coins and wishes! Luray Caverns donates all the money to charity. Feel free to take as many pictures as you like – the soft lighting of the caverns is great for pics and selfies! You can pre-book tickets (recommended) or purchase the day of your visit. Hours vary by season, so make sure to check the website before you visit.

Late Morning: Toy Trains and Real Cars!

After the tour, make your way to the gift shop. Here you’ll find everything from rock sand crystals to commemorative gear and local goods. This is where you’ll get your empty gem bags for the mining experience later in the day – just ask the cashier.

A walkway leads from the gift shop toward a cluster of buildings where you’ll find Stalactite Café – a sure sign it’s time to refuel with a quick lunch. (If you need something from your car, now’s a good time to grab it.)

Next to the café, train sets and vintage toys are displayed at Toy Town Junction, where they bring out the kid in everyone.

At the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum you can feast your eyes on spectacular vintage vehicles. The stunning centerpiece of the collection is an 1897 Mercedes-Benz, one of the oldest cars in the country still in operating condition. Be sure to check out the precursor to the Chevy Volt, the 1908 Baker Electric. And bask in the indulgent 1925 Rolls Royce, associated with the silent film star, Rudolph Valentino. Entrance to the museum is through the fudge shop – so grab some handcrafted fudge as you depart.

Early Afternoon: Get Active in the Outdoors

Following the walkway down the hill, with the Visitors Center to your right, you will pass bathrooms and vending machines before arriving at the next stop. The Rope Adventure Park is high-flying fun for the whole family! The Low Ropes Course offers lower skill climbs for youngsters, while the High Ropes Course offers challenges for the more ambitious.

Next to the rope course, the Garden Maze has more than 1,500 evergreen hedges and an expertly crafted, handicapped accessible maze. Unravel the mystery of the largest hedge maze in the Mid-Atlantic – a one-acre ornamental garden.

Outdoor adventures are not included with cavern admission, but they are well worth it — especially if you’ve got little ones in tow.

Late Afternoon: Immerse Yourself in Shenandoah Heritage Village

Just across Cave Hill Road you will find Shenandoah Heritage Village and Stoneyman Gemstone Mining. The village is a restored 19^th-century farming community set against beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The village experience is included with admission.

Grab a gem bag and get ready for a hands-on geology experience at the Stoneyman Mining Company gem sluice. This is a perfect opportunity for kids and adults of all ages to roll up their sleeves, get their hands wet, and discover a truly good time.

If you are hungry after a day full of activities, grab a sandwich and brew at Heartpine Café. At this point, the sun should be close to setting so you can slow the pace a bit and take in the scenery.

Good to Know

There’s a petrol station in the car park. And if you would like to extend your stay overnight, you’ll find lodging options just a few minutes away in the town of Luray; the closest hotels are Luray Caverns Motels and the Mimslyn Inn.

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or a full day, Luray Caverns offers a one-of-a-kind journey beneath – and beyond – the surface.  Book your tickets at LurayCaverns.com.

101 Cave Hill Road, Luray VA 22835