Hike Through A Hidden Cave, Then Dine At A Cave-Themed Restaurant In Missouri

Missouri is made for daytrips (and road trips, if we have more time). No matter your interests, you can find or create the perfect daytrip in Missouri. Since Missouri's known as the Cave State, boasting more than nearly 7,500 caves, it's only fitting that there's at least one cave-themed daytrip.

Today's daytrip will take you on a tour of Bluff Dwellers Cave, which also features some fun amenities, before you head to a cave-themed restaurant for a delicious bite to eat. Even better? Less than eight miles separate the two attractions, which means less gas used and more time to explore.

Bluff Dwellers Cave in Noel isn't exactly hidden, but it doesn't quite get the attention that other Missouri caves, like Fantastic Caverns and Meramec Caverns, tend to get.

While the cave is open year round for traditional tours, you can also visit on select days in October for a lantern tour of the cave's abandoned passageways.

Whichever you choose, you'll follow a seasoned tour guide through the cave, gaining insight into its rich history. Wait until you see the 10-ton balanced rock, one of several of the cave's natural features.

Dress for the weather, no matter what time of the year you visit. The cave maintains a steady temperature of 56 degrees Fahrenheit.

Your adventure isn't over after your tour. Stop by the Browning Museum for a glimpse at an impressive collection of artifacts then go panning for gems.

Save some time to explore the gift shop, too, where you'll find all kinds of goodies and souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

By now, you've likely built up a hearty appetite, The drive to the Cave Bar & Grill tallies just under eight miles and should take around 13 minutes, depending on traffic.

During the warmer months, request a table outdoors.

However, you'll really want to experience the ambience of dining in a real cave. Indoor dining is spacious and cozy.

The menu's jam-packed with deliciousness - salads, burgers, sandwiches, and wraps. If you're not too hungry, dig into a decadent dessert, such as a sundae or a brownie a-la-mode.

Before you leave, stop by to see the resident goats, too.

Learn more on the Bluff Dwellers Cave website. Then check out a menu on the Cave Bar & Grill Facebook page.

What do you think? Would you go on this daytrip in Missouri? Let us know in the comments! For an adventure in nature, make your way to this beautiful nature preserve in Missouri.