August 28, 2012

Way Down Yonder in the Tuckaleechee

Although most of our vacation was spent doing fun things like white water rafting, going to amusement parks and of course hitting as many souvenir shops as possible, I also wanted to incorporate some activities that might provide a “learning experience” for the kids.

We had investigated some local caverns in the area, and found that Tuckaleechee Caverns were the highest rated.  The caverns are located in Townsend, TN, which is about an hour drive from Gatlinburg.  We chose the scenic route through the Smokey Mountain National Park and It was breathtaking! 

The caverns did not disappoint.  The temperature inside is a cool 58 degrees, which was a nice change from the 80 degree temps outside.  It was about an hour and a half tour, and our tour guide was awesome. He was extremely knowledgeable, included the kids in his discussion and allowed ample time to snap pictures.  There are quite a few stairs to maneuver, so if you have any elderly travelers, or if you have to carry small children, this might not be the best tour for you.

TC1

TC2

And my favorite photo taken:

TC3

Pricing was $15 for adults and $7 for kids 5-11 (under 5 is free).  There was a small gift shop attached, with well-priced items, but the selection was not great.  Unfortunately I have not mastered my “real” camera (Faith if you have please offer some advice), so all my pictures were taken with my iPhone.That iPhone is a lifesaver.

Since this cavern is “off the beaten path”, they survive on word-of-mouth.  If you get a chance to visit, I sure hope you consider it. 

On the way home, we were asking the kids about what they had learned, and I was SUPER shocked to realize they were actually paying attention – maybe even more than I was!!!

Overall, I’m so glad we found this little treasure and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to be amazed!

12 comments:

Alyssa said...

I've been to a cavern before too! They are so cool! This one you went to looks awesome! Stopping by from the blog hop! Cute blog!

Nicole said...

Oh wow, that place looks amazing!

Erin said...

Oh this is so fun! We have a cave like that in Upstate NY called Howe's Cavern. I got rock candy there when I was little and learned about stalagtites and stalagmites. (Spelling?) Such get memories as a kid :)

Newest follower from the hope!

Faith said...

This looks like such an amazing thing to do! Your favorite picture you took is incredible!

As for the camera, I think I've gotten a better hang of it. Have you played around with all the scenes?

I use the indoor/party scene the most. Over the weekend I forgot to switch the indoor scene to dusk/dawn and I was surprised that my pictures still came out good. I would recommend playing around with all the scenes and going with the one where you think your pictures look best.

Faith said...

P.S. I've been using my phone camera more than my real camera too. Just so much more convenient.

Julie said...

Beautiful photos! I have been to caves before but never those. Love it!

Cindy said...

Wow, that looks awesome. I went to a cavern somewhere around there when I was a kid but have no idea which one!! I do remember the experience, though!!

Laura said...

Very cool! I think your iphone takes pretty good pictures! Enjoy your week!

beautiful me plus you said...

amazing pics... would love to see it sometimes! great blog btw.! x Marina

Rachel said...

Caves are my favorite natural wonder. Mountains and islands are cool and all, but caves are amazing--went to Mammoth Cave national park on my honeymoon! If we ever head back down to the Smokies we'll have to check this one out.

Dawn Kropp said...

I used to love going to the caverns as a child! I always had a hard time remembering which were stalagtites and which were stalagmites :)
Thanks for joining this week's Link'N Blogs! Bloggy Love from...
~*With a Side of Thriftiness

Holly said...

Sounds like a fun vacation! I'm your newest follower!--looking forward to getting to know you :)