[I wrote this in 2016 and recently updated it in September 2020. It has been fun to watch them update and develop the space.]
One of our all-time favorite places to visit in Columbus is the Olentangy Indian Caverns. Nestled just 20 minutes north of the city, in Delaware, this attraction provides a full day of adventure for families. The highlight of the caverns is, of course, the guided tour through the stunning limestone formations. But that’s not all! You can also enjoy an animal encounter area, gem mining, a hiking trail, miniature golf, and a playground for the kids to play on.
Caverns
“The caverns were formed millions of years ago by an underground river cutting through solid limestone rock, offering an exciting excursion into ancient Indian lore with a maze of beautiful winding passages and spacious underground rooms.”
If you plan on visiting the Olentangy Indian Caverns, keep in mind that the type of tour you receive may vary depending on the time of year. Some tours may be self-guided, while others will be led by a knowledgeable guide. It’s important to note that the caverns can be damp and dark, so if you visit during the off-season with young children, you may feel a bit uneasy without a tour guide. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a jacket with you as it can be significantly cooler underground.
If you opt for a self-guided tour of the Olentangy Indian Caverns, you will receive a map to help navigate your way through the caverns. The map is easy to follow and there are audio boxes placed throughout the caverns that provide additional information about the history and geology of the area.
This is an example of what the audio boxes look like.
Animal Encounters
Recently (back in 2016), they have built a HUGE enclosure for their animals. A few years ago (when I was growing up), I remember them only having sheep. Now, they have a zebu, goats, deer, pigs, sheep, chickens, and a rabbit. This is a very hands-on experience and is AMAZING! I remember taking my nanny kids years ago and they never wanted to leave. If I am being honest – neither did I. One changed they’ve made since I last went a few years ago is they’ve created a closed space to feed the animals. It used to be that you walked into the 50,000 square foot enclosure and you were bombarded my animals! Now, you walk into a fenced area and feed them through the openings. The animals are VERY friendly, so I think this was a good move. Once you’re done feeding the animals, you have the option to go out into the open area and interact with them.
This is where you enter to interact with the animals. Just to the right is the area that is gated in. We went on Labor Day and I think because of most people being off, it was decently busy. We were able to social distance pretty much everywhere except for the animal feeding area. The area is pretty small and closed. I will say that almost everyone was wearing masks. They do have the option to feed the deer and that I much more spread out.
This is in the deer area. I appreciate that they had areas out opened up that the deer were able to go explore. I’m not sure how the mind of a deer works, but I appreciate that if they felt overwhelmed or any reason – they could head out. Not sure that’s how it works, but that’s what Ia going with.
2016
2016 – Now the deer have their own separate area.
2016 – The animals are just as friendly, if not more friendly today!
2016
2016
You can read more about the animals they have + learn a few new facts about them here.
Cost: $4/person
Food: $1/small bag or $3/large bag
I love that they have three different heights, making it easy for little ones to wash their hands.
Playground
When we pulled up, I noticed the playground was no longer in its original spot. I was bummed because it was always so much fun. I learned it isn’t in its original spot because they’ve since built a BRAND NEW playground, much bigger! You’ll find it to the back left, just a short walk from the petting zoo. It is a great mix of slides, climbing, and pretend play (they have a wooden trail). It was great for both Olivia (4) and Harper (21-ish months).
You’ll also find life-sized tic-tac-toe and checkers.
Gem Mining
They have a great gem mining set-up just in front of the parking lot. You go inside to purchase your bag of dirt/gravel filled with gems! There are a few different choices, ranging in price from $6.99 – $26.99. Once you’ve picked your bag, they give you the sifter tool and you’re on your way. It was fun watching the girls, especially Olivia (4) get excited every time a new gem showed up. You get a card with it that identifies each of the gems. 
Treasure Hunt Maze
This is a new feature and it is Central Ohio’s first Treasure Hunt Maze. Throughout the maze, you’ll use your tokens to find three special treasures like gems and arrowheads.
Miniature Golf
The miniature golf course is a fun addition to your day. It is 18-holes, Native American themed, provides great shade, and isn’t a difficult course. The cost is $4 per person.
2016
2016
Picnic Tables
They have great picnic spots throughout their grounds. If they’re not covered, they have an umbrella – which is great!
Cavern Tour Prices
13 years old and up) | $9.95
3 – 12 years old | $ 6.95
2 and under are FREE
Petting Zoo: $4.00
Treasure Hunt Maze: $5.00
Miniature Golf: $3.00
Gem Mining: $6.99 – $24.99
This is such a great deal!
Hours
Monday – Sunday
9:30am – 5:00 pm
Self-Guided Tour Season
You buy admission in the gift shop. They give you instructions and provide you with a map. You are able to explore the caverns at your leisure while listening to their audio stations throughout the caverns.
They offered guided tours in June and July.
Items You May Want To Bring:
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes: the cavern may be muddy or wet.
A jacket: the cavern is 54 degrees year-round.
Contact
Address | 1779 Home Rd | Delaware, OH 43015
Email | olentangycaverns@gmail.com
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