Onyx Cave Park
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Onyx Cave Park

4.4
·1k reviews·Eureka Springs, United States

Explore Arkansas's oldest show cave, discovered in 1891, with stunning formations and a unique underground lake.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Onyx Cave Park

Onyx Cave Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Arkansas's oldest show cave, discovered in 1891, with stunning formations and a unique underground lake. TikTok+1

4.4
(1k reviews)

"The beauty of Onyx Cave surprised me; I may become a cave enthusiast thanks to our guide! Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cave has uneven steps and ramps. Good walking shoes are a must for a comfortable exploration.

🎧 Audio Tour Recommended

Enhance your understanding of the cave's history and formations with the self-guided audio tour.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dazzling Stalactites & Stalagmites

Dazzling Stalactites & Stalagmites

Throughout the cave

Marvel at the natural artistry of ancient rock formations, sculpted over millennia.

TikTok
The Mysterious Bottomless Lake

The Mysterious Bottomless Lake

Deep within the cave

Discover an intriguing underground body of water that adds an element of wonder to your tour.

TikTok
Resident Feline Friends

Resident Feline Friends

Near the gift shop

Meet Onyx and Flowstone, the friendly resident cats who often greet visitors.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Smoother Visit

Onyx Cave Park is Arkansas's oldest show cave, drawing visitors since 1893. To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays, especially outside of peak summer months. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more intimate experience. TikTok

Self-Guided vs. Guided Tours

Choose between a self-guided audio tour or a more in-depth guided experience. The self-guided option allows you to explore at your own pace, while the guided tour offers deeper insights and interaction with staff. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon weekdays
Why
Beat the midday rush
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (early/late)
Why
Still manageable with timing
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Eureka Springs #onyxcave #bucketlisttravel
@bniceglez1
0 likes • 49 views

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cave has uneven steps and ramps. Good walking shoes are a must for a comfortable exploration. TikTokReddit

🎧 Audio Tour Recommended

Enhance your understanding of the cave's history and formations with the self-guided audio tour. TikTokReddit

Onyx Cave in Eureka Springs, AR #caves #onyxcave #eurekaspringsarkansas
@bikesforlife84
4 likes • 378 views
Check out this @eurekasprings Mini Vlog for your next visit to @arkansas This historic downtown area has an artsy atmosphere, surrounded by unique offerings and plenty of activities to enjoy. Our journey through various towns of Arkansas was amazing, and here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss while visiting Eureka Springs! 1. Christ of the Ozarks- The seven-story Statue continues to be one...
monicaplus_2
629 likes • 7.3K views

💰 Consider the Extended Tour

For a deeper dive, opt for the guided tour which offers more insights than the audio tour alone. Reddit

🐾 Pet the Resident Cats

Don't miss the chance to meet Onyx and Flowstone, the park's friendly feline ambassadors! Reddit

Onyx Cave, Eureka Springs, + Roaring River State Park
locallather
183 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cave has uneven steps and ramps. Good walking shoes are a must for a comfortable exploration. TikTokReddit

🎧 Audio Tour Recommended

Enhance your understanding of the cave's history and formations with the self-guided audio tour. TikTokReddit

💰 Consider the Extended Tour

For a deeper dive, opt for the guided tour which offers more insights than the audio tour alone. Reddit

🐾 Pet the Resident Cats

Don't miss the chance to meet Onyx and Flowstone, the park's friendly feline ambassadors! Reddit

💎 Try Gem Panning

Add some extra fun to your visit with gem panning, a popular activity for all ages. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Onyx Cave Park for its beauty, friendly staff, and unique features like the underground lake and resident cats. The self-guided audio tour is well-received for its informative content and flexibility, while the guided tour offers deeper insights. Some note that the cave is relatively short and has some uneven terrain, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and enjoyable experience for most. Reddit+2

"Amazing experience and great staff! I love the self guided tour setup (you can get a guide on request), and it was great being able to spend as much time as you liked at each little marked stop. But what topped off the experience was the kitty we found at the end of the cave! They have 2 resident cats who are EXTREMELY friendly! 15$ per ticket was a great price point! This is a must see!"

Richard Hodges

"I had very little expectations when we decided to go to this cave. My mother dragged me to cave after cave when I was little and I just wasn’t into it. I was pleasantly surprised at the beauty of Onxy cave. I had never seen a body of water in a cave and it was cool to see. The best part was our tour guide, Jared. Jared’s enthusiasm was contagious and by the end of the tour I was ready to go cave exploring! We really enjoyed ourselves and I may become a cave enthusiast thanks to Jared!"

mARY Ponder

"I consider this to be a good beginner cave. The staff were all friendly. The pricing is reasonable and I think it's worth the extra $6 for the extended guided tour. It is a fairly short cave to wander, but it's well lit and nice and open. Our guide really wanted us to see the beauty of what is available to be seen in the cave. It was in use for a long time before it was on tour, so many of the stalactites and stalagmites have been removed. That said, there's a lot of interesting stuff to see (including helictites)."

Mickey Pietrzak

What People Like

Friendly and enthusiastic staff
Beautiful cave formations
Unique underground lake

What People Dislike

Cave is relatively short
Uneven steps and ramps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Onyx Cave Park is conveniently located just about 6 miles from downtown Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Most visitors drive, and it's a straightforward trip. TikTokInstagram

Public transport options are limited in the Eureka Springs area. Driving is the most common and recommended way to reach Onyx Cave Park. TikTok

There is ample parking available at Onyx Cave Park, making it easy for visitors arriving by car. TikTok

Absolutely! Onyx Cave Park is a popular stop for day trips from various locations in Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Onyx Cave Park is close to other Eureka Springs attractions like Christ of the Ozarks and Thorncrown Chapel, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices are generally around $15 per adult for the self-guided audio tour. An extended guided tour may cost an additional $6. TikTokReddit

While advance booking isn't always necessary, it's a good idea during peak season or holidays to secure your spot, especially if you prefer a guided tour. TikTok

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. TikTok

Yes, you can choose between a self-guided audio tour (around 30 minutes) or a longer guided tour (about an hour). TikTokReddit

Yes, Onyx Cave Park is generally considered suitable for young children, with a self-guided tour that's not too long or strenuous. TikTokReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The self-guided audio tour typically takes about 30 minutes, while the extended guided tour can last up to an hour. TikTokReddit

The cave has some uneven steps and ramps. While generally manageable, those with significant mobility issues might find the ramps challenging to walk back up. Reddit

You can expect to see a variety of stalactites, stalagmites, and helictites, as well as an interesting underground body of water. TikTokReddit

Photography is generally allowed inside the cave, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions or guidelines upon arrival. TikTok

Caves maintain a consistent cool temperature year-round, typically around 58-60°F (14-16°C). It's advisable to bring a light jacket. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Onyx Cave Park has a gift shop that may offer some snacks or drinks, but for full meals, you'll find numerous restaurants in nearby Eureka Springs. TikTok

It's generally best to consume outside food and drinks before entering the cave to maintain its pristine condition. Check with the park for specific policies. TikTok

The gift shop offers a variety of items, including souvenirs, local crafts, and some beautiful decorative pieces. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Every turn offers a unique perspective, but the areas with the most prominent formations and the underground lake are particularly photogenic. TikTok+1

The cave is well-lit for tours, but it's still an underground environment. Using a tripod or a camera with good low-light capabilities can help capture stunning shots. TikTok

While flash photography is often permitted, it's respectful to be mindful of other visitors and the cave environment. Check for any posted signs. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the cave. If you have a camera with manual settings, experiment with longer exposures for dramatic effect. TikTok

The unique formations and the underground lake provide excellent opportunities for memorable photos. The resident cats also make for charming subjects! TikTokReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Onyx Cave Park is a fantastic choice for families! The self-guided audio tour is engaging for kids and not too long, making it ideal for younger children. TikTokReddit The cave's formations are visually interesting, and the underground lake adds an element of mystery. Don't forget to try the gem panning for extra fun! Reddit The friendly resident cats, Onyx and Flowstone, are also a big hit with children. TikTokReddit Just be sure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as there are some uneven surfaces. TikTok

💑 Couples and Anniversary Trips

For a unique and memorable experience, Onyx Cave Park is perfect for couples. The intimate setting of the cave, with its natural beauty and historical significance, creates a romantic atmosphere. TikTok+1 Consider the guided tour for a more shared learning experience, or the self-guided audio tour to explore at your own pace. The peaceful ambiance of the cave can be a welcome escape. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Onyx Cave Park offers great value for its price. At around $15 per adult for the self-guided tour, it's an affordable way to experience a natural wonder. TikTok Combining it with other free or low-cost attractions in Eureka Springs makes for an economical trip. TikTok Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help save money. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Onyx Cave Park holds the distinction of being Arkansas's oldest show cave, with its history dating back to its discovery in 1891 and opening for tours in 1893. TikTok+1 This long-standing presence means the cave has been a point of interest for generations, offering a tangible connection to the past. The self-guided audio tour is designed to bring this rich history to life, allowing visitors to learn about the cave's discovery and its evolution as a tourist attraction. TikTok

While the cave has been in use for a long time, many of its original formations have been preserved, and new ones continue to form. The park's commitment to showcasing its natural beauty while respecting its historical significance makes for a unique visitor experience. The enthusiasm of guides like Jared has even inspired new cave enthusiasts, highlighting the park's ability to connect people with the wonders of the underground world. Reddit

Navigating the Cave: Tours and Accessibility

Onyx Cave Park offers two primary tour options: a self-guided audio tour and an extended guided tour. The self-guided option, lasting about 30 minutes, allows visitors to explore at their own pace using an audio device that provides information about the cave's features and history. TikTokReddit This is a great choice for those who prefer independence or are traveling with young children who might have shorter attention spans. TikTok

The guided tour, which lasts approximately an hour, provides a more in-depth experience with a knowledgeable guide who can answer questions and share fascinating details. Reddit+1 While the cave is generally accessible, it's important to note that there are uneven steps and ramps. Visitors with mobility issues may find the ramps challenging to navigate, particularly on the way back up. Reddit Comfortable footwear is highly recommended for all visitors to ensure a safe and enjoyable exploration of this natural wonder. TikTok

Beyond the Cave: Activities and Amenities

While the cave tour is the main attraction, Onyx Cave Park offers additional activities to enhance your visit. Gem panning is a popular option, providing a fun and interactive experience for families and individuals alike. Reddit It's a great way to add a bit of treasure hunting to your underground adventure. The park also features a gift shop, which is a pleasant place to browse for souvenirs, local crafts, and unique decorative items. Reddit

Adding to the charm of Onyx Cave Park are its two resident cats, Onyx and Flowstone. These friendly felines are known to greet visitors, often found near the gift shop or at the end of the cave tour. TikTokReddit Their presence adds a delightful, personal touch to the experience, making it even more memorable. For dining, while the park itself may offer limited snacks, the nearby town of Eureka Springs boasts a wide array of restaurants to satisfy any craving. TikTok

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