It’s flippin’ FREEZING outside. Where can you have a memorable, outdoor adventure but remain reasonably comfortable? It sounds a little crazy, but trust us: Go to a cave.

Specifically, we’re talking about Ohio Caverns in West Liberty, Ohio. It’s officially known as America’s Most Colorful Caverns, and while it’s one of the biggest attractions in Logan County, we love it in the winter for a very specific reason.

The Hidden Perk of Visiting Ohio Caverns in the Winter

While the wind chill is making the surface world miserable, the temperature inside this dual-level cavern stays a steady, blissful 54 degrees Fahrenheit.

We’re not kidding. That’s like a spring day.

When it’s 10 degrees in the parking lot, it is literally 44 degrees warmer once you get underground. As you explore, you’ll see how iron oxide and calcium carbonate created the vibrant reds and whites that give the cave its name. You’ll see incredible stalactites and stalagmites, including the famous Crystal King, one of the largest and whitest stalactites in the world.

What to Expect for Ohio Caverns Prices and Tours

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Ohio Caverns, winter (so … now) is a good choice because you get to ditch the heavy parka and actually feel your fingers again.

They offer different experiences like the Natural Wonder Tour and the Limestone Giant Tour, and while people often ask, “Is Ohio Caverns wheelchair accessible?” the answer is that limited parts are, though you should be prepared for quite a few stairs on the full routes. Check their website for the latest Ohio Caverns ticket prices and hours before you head out!

The Perfect Ohio Day Trip from the Caverns to Downtown Bellefontaine

But as cool as the tour is, the caverns are really just the warm-up. (No pun intended.) The real way to enjoy Ohio day trips is what you do when you climb back out. Instead of just calling it a day, take the 15-minute drive from West Liberty into Downtown Bellefontaine.

Where to Eat and Drink Near Ohio Caverns

If you’re starving after the tour, your first stop has to be Six Hundred Downtown. The owner is a six-time world pizza champion, and one bite will show you WHY. They have these old-world brick ovens that stay at a constant 600 degrees. (Thus the name.) Between the heat from the ovens and an award-winning “Montana” pizza (or their world-famous garlic knots), you’ll be thawed out in no time.

More in the mood for a drink and a hangout? Check out Brewfontaine. It was voted the #1 beer bar in Ohio. Wait, world champion pizza? Best bar in Ohio? In … Bellefontaine?

Yep!

Grab a craft pint and a massive toasted panini and just lose track of time while you defrost. Or, if you want some actual “heat,” The Flying Pepper Cantina does scratch-made Mexican food that’ll warm you up in no time. (Let’s just say their birria tacos and handmade guava margaritas make it feel a lot less like the dead of winter.)

For something a bit more upscale, The Syndicate is a solid choice. After all, there’s nothing wrong with a little bit of refinement to end the day. It’s a beautifully restored 1940s newsstand with a custom glass bar.

Shop Local and Thaw Out Indoors

Once your stomach is full, don’t just run back to the car. We have some of the best shops in the state, and they all have the heat cranked up. The Olde Mint Antiques features four stories of history where you can find vintage treasures. Then there’s The Nest 1896, which is a curated indoor market with over 60 local vendors selling a wide assortment of fun things. Vinyl records, handmade jewelry, and so, so much more.

While you’re wandering, stop by The Naked Goat Bath & Body. We all know that winter wind does a number on your skin (ugh), and they make natural goat milk soaps and lotions right here that will give you a lot of relief. You can also duck into Queen of Hearts for gourmet chocolates or The Fun Company, a local favorite for toys and games since 1983. That’s right, kids who enjoyed their toys are all grown up and now take THEIR children!

Start Planning Your Visit to Ohio Caverns and Bellefontaine

Already starting to plan your trip? Have you read this blog for a second time, now sharing it with your family?

Remember, go underground at Ohio Caverns to enjoy that 54-degree air, then come downtown for a world-class pizza and a beer. (We’ve even got a Pet Wash Station near the Farmers Market, because nobody wants a salty, muddy dog in their backseat for the drive home.)

The weather outside might be frightful, but between a warm cave and a 600-degree pizza oven, we have what’s delightful. See you downtown. We’ll leave the heat on for you.