Our family loves exploring, and last year we decided to check out Secret Caverns in Howes Cave, located in Upstate New York (about 45 minutes from Albany).
Secret Caverns, Howes Cave, New York
We used Google Maps to get there, and it was easy to find. We followed a series of brightly painted signs to Secret Caverns, and parked by the main building, which is also painted vividly.
Secret Caverns, Howes Cave, New York
Once we paid for our tickets, we embarked on our tour, which lasted just under an hour.  Adults are $18 and kids are $10. Kids under 6 are free, but strollers are not permitted. My kids were 3.5 and 6 at the time, and although it might be more suited for older kids as far as attention span and interest in geology and history, my girls still enjoyed exploring the cave.
Secret Caverns, Howes Cave, New York
The cave is about 50 degrees F year round, so bring a jacket or sweater, especially for the kids.  My kids had no problem walking around the caves, and they were not scared, as the cave has sufficient lighting throughout. There are many formations you can see and touch, and photography is permitted.  This has not always been the case on cave tours, and the kids especially enjoyed being able to touch the cave formations. There is also a 100′ waterfall at the end of the tour.  It is an impressive sight, and you can get a sense of just how powerful it is, as the sound of the waterfall is very loud.
Secret Caverns, Howes Cave, New York
After the tour, you can check out the gift shop, which has lots of things to see, such as different artifacts and a variety of fun souvenirs. There are also some fun things to check out outside.  For example, we were able to learn a little about the discovery of the cave in 1928 (by cows) before we started our tour.
Secret Caverns, Howes Cave, New York
And of course, what tour wouldn’t be complete without pretending to lock up your dad in a stockade?
Secret Caverns, Howes Cave, New York
This was a fun family trip and an interesting and unique attraction.  It was a nice place for the kids to explore while we also learned about the caves.  Secret Caverns is open almost year-round, from April to December (be sure to check their website or call ahead to be sure they are open), so it is a good option when a lot of other things aren’t open. Visit the Secret Caverns website at http://www.secretcaverns.com/ Follow them on Facebook. Check out my other posts on Things to Do in New York.
Marysa
About the Author: Marysa Busy blogger and mom of two girls! We love traveling and the great outdoors, and are always looking for our next adventure!