Meramec Caverns
This massive 4.6-mile cave system along Route 66 is famous for its stunning mineral formations and its history as a legendary Jesse James hideout. The highlight is the spectacular 'Stage Curtain' wet-wall, dramatically illuminated in a classic light show. It's a quintessential American roadside wonder.
- Admission
- $28 adults, $16 children (ages 5-11), under 5 free
- Hours
- Open daily from 9:00 AM; closing times vary seasonally
- Duration
- 1.5 to 2 hours
- Parking
- Free on-site parking for cars and RVs
- Access
- Main tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible with some assistance on inclines
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Located along historic Route 66 in Stanton, Missouri, Meramec Caverns is a massive 4.6-mile cave system that has welcomed travelers for generations. It is famously rumored to have served as a hideout for the notorious outlaw Jesse James and his gang in the 1870s.
Today, visitors can embark on guided walking tours through well-lit, paved pathways to marvel at incredible ancient mineral formations. The highlight of the tour is the spectacular "Stagecurtain" formation, a massive wall of flowstone that serves as the backdrop for a dramatic light and sound show.
Beyond the underground wonders, the site embraces its classic roadside heritage with zipline canopy tours, riverboat rides, and a retro motel. It remains one of the most iconic and heavily advertised natural wonders of the American highway system.
Ratings
attractionVisitor Tips
- ◆ Wear comfortable walking shoes with good traction, as the cave paths can be damp and slick.
- ◆ Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the temperature inside the caverns remains a constant 58°F (14°C) year-round.
- ◆ Check out the vintage Route 66 memorabilia in the gift shop and look for the famous painted barns on your drive in.
- ◆ Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the guided cave tour itself, plus extra time for surface attractions.
Heads Up
- ◆ The cave tour requires walking about 1.25 miles and includes some stairs, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
- ◆ Touching the delicate cave formations is strictly prohibited to prevent damaging the living rock.
Common questions
What is the temperature inside Meramec Caverns?
The temperature inside the caverns remains a constant 58 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius) year-round. Visitors are encouraged to bring a light jacket or sweater, even during the summer.
Did Jesse James actually hide in Meramec Caverns?
Historical evidence and local lore indicate that outlaw Jesse James and his gang used the caverns as a hideout in the 1870s. The guided tour points out specific areas, including an escape route used by the gang.
Is Meramec Caverns stroller and wheelchair accessible?
While the tour paths are paved, there are several sets of stairs along the route, making it only partially accessible. Visitors using wheelchairs or strollers can access the main level but will not be able to reach the upper-level formations or the light show.
Can you bring dogs into Meramec Caverns?
Only small dogs that can be carried in your arms or in a carrier the entire time are allowed on the cave tour. Larger pets are not permitted inside the caverns or the visitor center, and must remain outdoors on a leash.