Ruby Falls
Descend 260 feet into Lookout Mountain to discover the breathtaking 145-foot Ruby Falls, the tallest and deepest underground waterfall in the US open ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Ruby Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Descend 260 feet into Lookout Mountain to discover the breathtaking 145-foot Ruby Falls, the tallest and deepest underground waterfall in the US open to the public.
"The scenery was absolutely breathtaking. A must see!"
Book Tickets Online
:admission_tickets: Secure your spot and potentially save time by booking timed entry tickets in advance.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: The cave tour involves walking on paved paths; comfortable footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ruby Falls Waterfall
Deep within Lookout Mountain
Witness the breathtaking 145-foot underground waterfall, illuminated for a magical experience.
Cave Formations
Along the tour path
Marvel at ancient stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique geological wonders.
Glass Elevator Ride
Entrance to the cave
Descend 260 feet through solid rock in a thrilling, high-speed glass elevator.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Dress for the Cave
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tickets Online
:admission_tickets: Secure your spot and potentially save time by booking timed entry tickets in advance.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: The cave tour involves walking on paved paths; comfortable footwear is essential.
Bring a Light Jacket
:cloud: Cave temperature is a constant 58°F (14°C) year-round.
Allow Ample Time
:clock: The entire experience, including the elevator and tour, can take 2-3 hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tickets Online
:admission_tickets: Secure your spot and potentially save time by booking timed entry tickets in advance.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: The cave tour involves walking on paved paths; comfortable footwear is essential.
Bring a Light Jacket
:cloud: Cave temperature is a constant 58°F (14°C) year-round.
Allow Ample Time
:clock: The entire experience, including the elevator and tour, can take 2-3 hours.
Combine with Rock City
:world_map: Many visitors combine Ruby Falls with Rock City Gardens for a full day of exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Ruby Falls for its spectacular underground waterfall and impressive cave formations, calling it a 'must-see' natural wonder. The guided tour and the unique elevator ride are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects. However, some find the ticket prices relatively high and the tour experience to feel rushed, with limited historical information provided during the cave walk.
"Amazing trip for rockhounds! The formations on the path to Ruby Falls were spectacular! So much natural beauty and wonder! The actual falls were just incredible. A must see! Knowledgeable, personable guide.
Will go again!
Hope to return again!"
michelle guseman
"I am so glad I was able to take a detour from our trip to check this place out. The scenery was absolutely breath taking. They have plenty of parking there is someone to help guide you to which part you are looking for. I appreciated how thought out the place is, because you can see it in the details. Even the brochure section had great information about other attractions in the area. The gift shop was actually fun to check out, not many places can say that. All the employee's I interacted with were helpful and really knew their information. I plan a return visit so I can have time for the cave and zipline. I highly recommend this place for all ages."
Elizabeth Rose
"My wife and I went during our first wedding anniversary. Wasn't too hard to traverse, and the history from our guide was very interesting. Overall pretty good to see at least once, especially near Christmas time, when they have the lights up outside as well."
Austin Kerr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ruby Falls is located on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. It's approximately a 2-hour drive from Atlanta, GA, and Nashville, TN.
Public transportation options directly to Ruby Falls are limited. Most visitors arrive by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
The address for Ruby Falls is 1720 S. Scenic Hwy., Chattanooga, TN 37409.
Yes, there are numerous hotels near Ruby Falls and Lookout Mountain, ranging from budget-friendly options to more upscale accommodations. Searching for 'hotels near Ruby Falls' or 'hotels close to Ruby Falls' will yield many results.
Absolutely! Ruby Falls is a popular day trip destination, especially for those visiting Chattanooga or driving through Tennessee. It's often combined with visits to Rock City Gardens and other Lookout Mountain attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Ruby Falls vary by age. As of recent information, adult tickets are around $28.95, children (ages 3-12) are $18.95, and seniors are $27.95. It's always best to check the official Ruby Falls website for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to purchase Ruby Falls tickets online in advance, especially during peak season or weekends. They operate on timed entry slots, and booking ahead ensures your preferred time and avoids disappointment.
Look for combo tickets that include Rock City and Ruby Falls for potential savings. Sometimes discounts are available for military personnel or AAA members. Check the official website or local tourism sites for current offers.
Ruby Falls generally operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Ruby Falls website for the most up-to-date operating hours for your planned visit date.
Admission to Ruby Falls includes the guided cave tour, which features the elevator ride down, a walk through the cave to see formations, and the viewing of the Ruby Falls waterfall with a light and music show.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The guided cave tour at Ruby Falls typically lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours. The total visit, including waiting for the elevator and exploring the area, can take 2 to 3 hours.
The tour involves a moderate amount of walking on paved paths with some inclines. The elevator ride significantly reduces the physical effort. It's generally considered accessible for most visitors, but check with the attraction for specific accessibility concerns.
The cave boasts impressive natural formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, and flowstones, sculpted over millions of years. The path to the falls showcases a variety of these geological wonders.
Photography is generally allowed inside the cave and at the falls, but flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect the formations and for the viewing experience. Check for posted signs.
Yes, Ruby Falls is very family-friendly. Children are often fascinated by the cave formations, the elevator ride, and the waterfall itself. It's a great educational and adventurous outing for kids.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ruby Falls has a gift shop and snack bar where you can purchase drinks and snacks. For more substantial meals, there are restaurants located on Lookout Mountain or in downtown Chattanooga.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the cave tour area. You can typically consume your own food in designated picnic areas outside the main attraction if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The illuminated waterfall itself is the primary photo opportunity. The cave formations along the path also offer unique photographic subjects. The lookout point near the ticket counter provides a scenic view of the surrounding area.
Flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited inside the cave to preserve the delicate formations and enhance the viewing experience of the falls. Always adhere to posted signage.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial due to the dim lighting in the cave. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the formations and the waterfall.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds. Wear comfortable shoes for the walking involved, and bring a light jacket as the cave is cool year-round. Combining Ruby Falls with Rock City Gardens makes for a full day of family fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the off-peak season or on weekdays when crowds might be smaller, potentially leading to a more relaxed experience. Exploring the free viewpoints on Lookout Mountain, like parts of Point Park, can also offer great scenery without additional cost.
💑 Couples
+1 It's a great spot for creating shared memories and taking stunning photos together. Consider visiting during the holiday season when Ruby Falls often features special light displays, adding an extra touch of magic to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Discovery and History of Ruby Falls
The unique experience of descending deep into the earth to witness a natural wonder has captivated visitors for decades. The guided tours not only showcase the geological beauty but also share the fascinating story behind its discovery and naming. +1This historical context adds another layer to the visit, connecting travelers to the past and the adventurous spirit of early 20th-century exploration. Understanding the history makes the experience more than just seeing a waterfall; it's about appreciating a piece of American tourism heritage.
Navigating the Ruby Falls Cave Tour
Once underground, you'll embark on a guided tour along paved pathways, illuminated to reveal the cave's natural splendor. During the tour, your guide will point out various cave formations, such as stalactites and stalagmites, explaining their geological significance and the millions of years it took to form them.
Beyond the Falls: Other Lookout Mountain Attractions
Visitors can explore its natural beauty, whimsical gardens, and iconic landmarks like the 'Lovers Leap' rock. For panoramic views of the Tennessee River and the surrounding landscape, Point Park is highly recommended. It offers historical significance as a Civil War site and provides stunning vistas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit