First explored by a group of 12 women in 1867, Fantastic Caverns in Springfield has evolved quite a bit over the years. Initially merely a curious local attraction, the Caverns later served as a speakeasy during Prohibition. In the 1960's they were used as rock and roll concert halls. Later, the rough interior was further refined into the modern show form it has now.
The Caverns are America's only 100% ride-through cave. The tour lasts 55 minutes, is conducted entirely in a jeep drawn tram. This makes it is for those who have been doing a lot of local exploring to sit back and just enjoy the scenery in the caves. It also avoids any potential for tripping and falling in the cave, which makes the Caverns a very family, ADA and senior-friendly attraction.
The interior of the show cave rests year-round at an even 60 degrees. Somewhat humorously for locals, although seasonal visitors wouldn't know, is that the billboards advertising the caves refer to that as a cool 60 degrees in the summer time and a warm 60 degrees in the winter time. Either way, most feel it to be a very comfortable touring temperature.
The Fantastic Caverns stay open year round. Tours are offered each day, and generally depart every half an hour so there will be a limited amount of time to wait between tours. The hours of operation are between 8 am and dusk, defined by whatever that is at that season. Admission is a little steeper than at some of the other show caves in the area, but much of it likely goes to cover the cost of the ride. Uniquely, for an addition small fee, it is possible to turn a single pass ticket into a season ticket to come back and try the caves over and over.
