City: Tucson, AZ

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (520) 586-4100 (information li

Description: Discovered by two cavers in 1974 and kept secret for many years, this amazing natural attraction is now part of an extensive park area. Guided tours of the Throne Room (all ages welcome) and Big Room (children under 7 not permitted) are available seasonally year-round and are led by knowledgeable rangers.You will enter through hermetically sealed doors developed to maintain the humidity levels in these magnificent wet caves and preserve them in their original state. You won’t find garish colored lights, just natural phenomena more amazing than you can imagine. It’s a tough tour for kids—there’s no touching and lots of walking and talking—and no strollers or baby backpacks are allowed. However, kids will enjoy the trails, nature walks, and the great interactive discovery center.Reservations are required; make them well in advance, as tours book up early. Fees vary, but you will pay a park entrance fee per vehicle as well as a separate fee to tour the caves. (See the Parks & Recreation chapter for more details.) The park is located 9 miles south of I-10, off Highway 90 at exit 302.