What a cool trip we had to Meramec Caverns
July 19, 2008
St. Charles County
by Kris Kolk
Summer boredom had set in. The family was edgy and nearing melt-down. So, we decided, as a family, to find something really fun to do. And, the kicker was…everyone had to agree.
Well, we went through the same routine: rent a DVD, go bowling, go to the park. Then it hit us. We had seen billboards recently (how could we miss them) for Meramec Caverns in Stanton, Missouri. I had been there before, like 20 years ago, and remember having a good time.
Without sounding like an advertisement, I would like to say that Meramec Caverns has something for most everyone. The tourist attraction offers lessons in geology, history and entrepreneurialism.
We stretched our legs and learned a lot, but did not have to hang out in the sweltering heat. The guided tour takes an hour and twenty minutes and covers one mile round trip. The best part is that the cave is always 58 to 60 degrees. We had to bring jackets!
Stalagmites, stalactites and onyx are some of the features of the tour. The “Stage Curtain” formation is said to have been formed over 70 million years ago and stands almost 70 feet tall.
Colored lights are used often to highlight the formations. At one point, our guide turned out the lights completely, but just for a moment to demonstrate the true darkness of the cave.
The “wine table” formation, seen advertised on billboards, is in the wine room which also boasts grape cluster-type formations on the walls. The wine room is up a flight of 58 steps. Tour-takers can forgo the steps. But the walk up wasn’t so bad. Our group moved so slowly, it seemed there was a pause to rest every few steps. About halfway up the stairs, there is a platform to bail out for those who regret starting the climb.
The caves have a connection with Jesse James and his James Gang.
Lester Dill had been offering tours of his cave since the 1930’s. But in 1941, Dill found some of Jesse James’ artifacts. That’s when the caves were dubbed “the Jesse James hideout.” History was added to the attraction and Dill welcomed it.
The gift shop wasn’t too pricey. We purchased a refrigerator magnet and one of those smashed pennies from a machine.
There is a restaurant just inside the entrance. It is a comfortable, diner kind of set-up. If you are looking for somewhere more familiar to eat, Sullivan, Missouri is just a couple miles beyond the caverns on Interstate 44. Sullivan has a Cracker Barrel, Applebee’s and some fast food places as well.
From St. Charles, the trip is 68 miles and takes about an hour and 15 minute drive. Check out the Meramec Caverns website for more information.
Copyright 2008 Neighbors About Town