Dixie Caverns
Explore ancient underground wonders and uncover the charming story of Dixie's discovery. A cool escape with a unique gift shop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the heat underground
Dixie Caverns
Best Time
Escape the heat underground
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient underground wonders and uncover the charming story of Dixie's discovery. A cool escape with a unique gift shop.
"A great little cave with amazing history and a workout to boot!"
👟 Wear grippy shoes!
Floors can be wet & slippery. Lots of stairs! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay cool underground
The caverns are a refreshing 55°F year-round. :snowflake:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jacob's Ladder
Inside the caverns
Conquer the impressive eight-story flight of stairs for a unique perspective and a good workout.
The Discovery Story
Cavern tour
Hear the charming tale of how a dog named Dixie led her owners to discover these natural wonders.
Unique Rock Formations
Throughout the caverns
Marvel at the natural beauty and geological wonders formed over millions of years.
Gift Shop & Antique Mall
Above ground
Browse eclectic souvenirs and antique treasures after your underground adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Stair Workout
Book Your Tour in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear grippy shoes!
Floors can be wet & slippery. Lots of stairs! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay cool underground
The caverns are a refreshing 55°F year-round. :snowflake:
📸 Photo ops abound
Small groups allow for great photos. Be mindful of wet spots. :camerawithflash:
🦇 Bat spotting possible
Keep an eye out for bats, especially in cooler months. :bat:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear grippy shoes!
Floors can be wet & slippery. Lots of stairs! :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay cool underground
The caverns are a refreshing 55°F year-round. :snowflake:
📸 Photo ops abound
Small groups allow for great photos. Be mindful of wet spots. :camerawithflash:
🦇 Bat spotting possible
Keep an eye out for bats, especially in cooler months. :bat:
🛍️ Quirky gift shop
Don't miss the unique souvenirs and antique mall. :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dixie Caverns for its fascinating history, unique geological formations, and the engaging guided tours. The cool, constant temperature and the charming discovery story are highlights. However, many note the significant number of stairs and potentially slippery floors, making it a challenging experience for those with mobility issues.
"My recent visit to Dixie Caverns was a fantastic experience! The tour was well worth the $18 admission fee, and though there was no military discount, the value was still excellent. The tour itself was a comfortable length, lasting about 30-45 minutes. The cavern's interior was refreshingly cool, and it was fascinating to learn about its history, especially how it got the name 'Dixie.' It's a truly unique and beautiful natural wonder, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an interesting and educational stop."
Razorhornet
"A great place to stop and browse the awesome and eclectic gift shop and antique mall or take a cavern tour into the cool (literally and figuratively). Lots of steps and sometimes slippery floors so dress appropriately. My family really enjoyed the whole experience. Also there's a gas station next door with pretty decent food and drink options."
jon jackson
"Great cave, great history - but be forewarned - you're in for a workout! This is a one hour tour that is almost all stairs. Do you like stairs? Then you'll love this tour! Ten feet into it the tour guide announces you will be climbing "Jacob's Ladder" - which is an eight story flight of steps. While that's the longest continuous flight of steps in the tour, the rest of it is a series of shorter up/down steps. This is not a cave for mobility challenged people. I reached my exercise goal for the day six minutes into the tour and the tour lasts for an hour!
That said, it's a great little cave. The history of the discovery is amazing, and this is the only cave I've been to where you can see an actual earth fault line from below ground, which is amazing. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic and the time passed quickly. There was no dead time. I would definitely go again, but I'd do some cardio first!"
Jason Hurlburt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dixie Caverns is conveniently located between Roanoke and Salem, Virginia. It's easily accessible by car, often mentioned as a roadside stop on road trips. Many visitors find it a perfect detour while exploring the Roanoke area.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Dixie Caverns for visitors. You can typically park right at the entrance before heading to the gift shop or tour meeting point.
Absolutely! Dixie Caverns is a popular day trip destination from Roanoke, Virginia. The tour is about an hour long, making it easy to fit into a day of exploring the region.
Dixie Caverns is well-marked along the main routes between Roanoke and Salem. GPS navigation systems will easily guide you there.
Yes, Dixie Caverns is close to Roanoke and Salem, offering attractions like hiking at McAfee Knob, Explore Park, and various antique shops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission for the guided cavern tour is approximately $18 per person. While there isn't a military discount, many visitors find the experience to be excellent value for the price.
It's recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during busy periods, though walk-ins are often accommodated. This ensures you get your preferred tour time.
Dixie Caverns typically operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
The guided tours at Dixie Caverns generally last between 45 to 60 minutes, providing a comprehensive exploration of the cave system. +1
There is no specific age limit mentioned for the Dixie Caverns tour, but the physical demands (stairs, slippery surfaces) should be considered for very young children or elderly visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good traction, as the cave floors can be wet and slippery. Layers are also a good idea, as the temperature inside the caverns is a constant 55°F. +1
Dixie Caverns is not recommended for individuals with mobility challenges due to the numerous stairs, including a long flight known as 'Jacob's Ladder,' and potentially slippery surfaces.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Dixie Caverns. Small groups can make it easier to capture photos, but be cautious of wet areas.
The temperature inside Dixie Caverns remains a cool and consistent 55°F (13°C) year-round, offering a refreshing escape from summer heat.
While not guaranteed, it is possible to see bats in Dixie Caverns, especially during certain times of the year. Visitors have mentioned spotting them.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dixie Caverns has a gift shop and antique mall. There's also a gas station next door with decent food and drink options, making it convenient for a quick bite.
It's generally best to consume food and drinks before or after your tour, and not inside the delicate cavern environment. Check with your tour guide for specific policies.
Besides the nearby gas station, you'll find a variety of restaurants in the towns of Salem and Roanoke, offering diverse culinary experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is permitted inside Dixie Caverns. Visitors have shared photos and enjoyed capturing the unique formations.
The unique rock formations and the overall cavern landscape offer great photo opportunities. The 'Jacob's Ladder' section also provides a dramatic visual.
While generally allowed, be mindful of other visitors and the delicate cave environment. Avoid using flash photography if it's disruptive or prohibited in certain areas.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial. Smartphones with decent night modes can also capture good shots, but be cautious of moisture.
Tripods might be cumbersome in the narrow passages and stairways. It's best to check with the tour guide upon arrival about tripod usage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the cool, constant temperature of 55°F is a welcome relief on hot days, the physical exertion might be too much for very young children or those with mobility issues. The gift shop offers souvenirs that kids might enjoy, and the nearby gas station provides convenient snack options. It’s a unique experience that can spark curiosity about geology and local history.
🚶♀️ Active Adventurers & Fitness Enthusiasts
Wear your most supportive athletic shoes and be prepared for an hour of continuous movement. The slippery conditions add an extra layer of challenge. Many visitors report reaching their daily exercise goals within minutes of starting the tour, making it a memorable and invigorating experience.
🚗 Road-Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1Combine your visit with a stop at the gift shop and antique mall for a bit of browsing. The nearby gas station also offers convenient food and drink options, making it a perfect pit stop. It’s a great way to add a memorable natural wonder to your road trip itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Discovery of Dixie Caverns
The discovery of Dixie Caverns is as charming as the formations themselves. Legend has it that in 1920, two farm boys were exploring the area when their dog, Dixie, fell through a hidden opening in the ground. Thankfully, Dixie was unharmed and her accidental discovery led to the exploration and eventual public opening of the caverns. This story is a beloved part of the caverns' history and is often shared by guides.
Visitors can witness the unique geological features firsthand on a guided tour. The tour highlights include the impressive 'Jacob's Ladder,' an eight-story flight of stairs, and the chance to see an actual earth fault line from below ground. The guides are known for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the historical and geological aspects come alive.
Navigating the Caverns: A Physical Experience
Due to the terrain, sturdy, non-slip footwear is essential. The cave floors can be wet and slippery, making proper footwear crucial for safety and comfort. Visitors are advised to wear shoes with good grip, similar to what you might wear for a hike. This preparation ensures a more enjoyable and secure exploration of the caverns.
While the physical demands might deter some, those who are able to navigate the stairs often find the experience incredibly rewarding. The guides are attentive to safety, providing warnings about slippery spots and guiding visitors through the challenging sections. The unique underground environment and the historical context make the effort worthwhile for many.
Beyond the Caves: Gift Shop and Antiques
The antique mall is particularly noted for its eclectic offerings, adding another layer of discovery to the visit. It’s a great place to spend some extra time, especially if you enjoy browsing for vintage items or unique collectibles. The combination of natural wonder and retail therapy makes Dixie Caverns a well-rounded stop.
For those needing refreshments, a gas station with food and drink options is located next door, making it convenient for visitors to grab a snack or a drink before or after their cavern tour and shopping.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit