Visit Virginia: Luray Caverns

One of the most amazing places I've ever visited is Luray Caverns in Virginia.

This spectacular work of nature, which was discovered in 1878, was simply incredible to visit.

Formed as a result of a solution of calcium carbonate giving up carbon dioxide to allow a precipitation of lime to form, awe-inspiring structures are created, with new deposits accumulating at the rate of one cubic inch every 120 years.

A guided tour through the Luray Caverns takes place on easy paths with ample lighting, so exploring the caverns is safe and comfortable. 

Every where you look is something magnificent.  There were formations in all different sizes, colors, and textures.  Some looked like fish, some looked like drapery, and some even looked like bacon!

Speaking of bacon, in the caverns you'll see "Fried Eggs" - the result of accidental damage to stalagmites.

The tour lasted approximately 80 minutes, and I took hundreds and hundreds of photos.  I wish I had even more time to take even more photos, but the guide made sure to keep us on track and move us along, as other tours were behind us. 

Certain structures were nicknamed due to its immense size or peculiar formation.

Christmas Tree

Bride and Groom

Pluto's Ghost

Totem Poles

Made from pure calcite, Titan's Veil looked like a frozen waterfall!

Titan's Veil

In the cavern you'll find an organ!

The Great Stalacpipe Organ

The Great Stalacpipe Organ is the world’s largest musical instrument, utilizing the surrounding stalactites to emit music throughout three acres of the cavern.

There's also a stunning lake!

Dream Lake

Dream Lake may seem like it's very deep, but at its deepest point, it is not more than 18-20 inches.  The reflection of the stalactites just creates such an amazing illusion.

There's even a wishing well (money collected goes to charity).

Wishing Well

The Luray Caverns is definitely a must-see.  

Included with admission is a self-guided tour of the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, Toy Town Junction, and the Luray Valley Museum.


Luray Caverns
101 Cave Hill Rd

Luray, VA 22835
(540) 743-6551

Mahalo to the sponsor for the media tickets. Additional admission was purchased on my own.