Looking to shake up your next family outing with something totally different—and literally cooler? Then Bluespring Caverns in Southern Indiana should be on your radar. Just outside Bedford, this hidden spot lets you float down the longest underground river in the U.S., uncover sparkly treasures, and explore natural wonders—all in a single day.
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Exploring the Myst’ry River Boat Tour
The main event here is the Myst’ry River Voyage, a guided boat tour that glides through a cave carved by flowing water over thousands of years. But first, you’ve got to get there—down a steep, paved 400-foot path into the earth. Bring solid shoes and maybe a helping hand for the kids on the way back up.
At the bottom, you’ll board a custom electric boat for a smooth, hour-long ride through dimly lit caverns roughly 100 feet underground. The water is almost glass-clear, and the boat’s lights cast eerie shadows on the cave walls—making everything feel a bit like you’ve stepped into another world. Your guide will share stories, point out rock formations, and help you spot rare creatures like ghostly-white blind cavefish and crayfish, adapted to total darkness. Heads-up: at one point, the lights might cut out completely, just for a moment—so prep younger kiddos in advance.
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This isn’t your typical stalactite-packed cave. Expect sleek, sculpted flowstone, thin soda straws, and rock formations with quirky nicknames like “Elephant Head.” It’s definitely memorable, but not ideal for kids under 4 due to the steep path and hour-long, low-light ride.
Hands-On Fun Above Ground
After your underground trek, there’s still plenty to do topside. The Myst’ry River Gemstone Mine near the visitor center is a kid favorite. Grab a bag of mining rough ($5–$25), and let them pan for fossils, gemstones, or maybe even an arrowhead in the sluice. It’s messy, hands-on fun—and yes, they’ll want to take everything home.
Explore Indiana’s Largest Sinkhole
Got nature lovers in the mix? Walk the half-mile trail through the Ruth & Emery Bolton Natural Area. It winds past quiet meadows and karst formations, ending at a scenic overlook of Indiana’s largest sinkhole—over 90 feet deep and 10 acres wide. Pretty wild to think you were just deep underground minutes ago.
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What to Know Before Visiting Bluespring Caverns
Where:
Bluespring Caverns Park
1459 Blue Spring Caverns Road, Bedford, IN 47421
(About 75 miles south of Indy or north of Louisville)
When:
Daily, March 16–October 31, 9 AM–5 PM EDT
Last boat departs at closing
Admission (2025):
- Adults: $25
- Kids (0–15): $12
- Under 4: Tour not recommended
What to Bring:
- Light jacket or sweatshirt (cave stays ~53°F)
- Closed-toe, grippy shoes
- Optional flashlight for kids
- Snacks or picnic lunch
Tips:
- No strollers or wheelchairs on the boat
- Restrooms are only above ground—use ’em first
- Rain can raise river levels and cancel tours—call ahead if it’s been wet: (812) 279-9471
Make It a Memory
Bluespring Caverns isn’t just a cave tour—it’s like stepping into a secret world. Whether you’re gliding through shadowy tunnels, sifting for gems, or gazing into a giant sinkhole, it’s a full-on adventure. For families looking to cool off and try something totally different, this place delivers.
