Specialty Cave Tours
Guided Blacklight & Brews Tour
Blacklight & Brews Tour, an enchanting and unforgettable experience designed for adults. This unique 1-hour tour promises a captivating journey through the cave, illuminated by ultraviolet lights that reveal the dazzling beauty of fluorescent minerals and formations. One drink is included. Important Information for Attendees Age Restriction: This event is strictly for guests aged 21 and over. Children and infants will not be permitted entry. ID Requirement: All guests must bring a valid photo ID for entry. Ticket Information: Tickets for the Backlight & Brews Tour are non-refundable. Please note that the tours are held in the dark.
Guided Blacklight Tour
Unique Experience to explore the Cave of the Mounds by Black Light. Watch the cave glow under UV Light. You will learn about ultraviolet light, fluorescence, and see the speleothems GLOW! The tour price includes a black light rental and a guided tour of Cave of the Mounds. Tickets are non-refundable. Please be aware, that tours are held in the dark which may be inappropriate for very young children.
🎶🌿Nature Sound Immersion: A Journey of Harmony🎶🌿
Join us at the stunning Cave of the Mounds for an unforgettable evening of nature-inspired soundscapes and tranquility. Immerse yourself in the resonant tones of native flutes, the deep vibrational hum of the didgeridoo, the rhythmic beats of drums, and more, all performed live in the cave’s natural acoustic setting. Musical Mindset is a multi-talented musician and sound healer who combines the power of live looping with a diverse range of instruments and genres. Based in Chicago and with a background rooted in Greek culture, Paul began his musical journey at a young age, mastering the darbuka and incorporating the sounds of his upbringing into his unique compositions. From native flute to jaw harp, harmonica, didgeridoo, and his own vocals, Paul creates an immersive sound healing experience tailored to each individual. Madleen Alsabbah, a yoga instructor, musician, and ceremony facilitator with a deep passion for fostering connection, brings her experience in yoga and community events to the Madison area. Madleen has a background in facilitating ceremonies and events designed to promote inner peace, emotional healing, and spiritual connection. She will accompany Musical Mindset with the rhythmic beats of percussion and shamanic instruments, enhancing the immersive soundscape with grounding vibrations. Together, Paul and Madleen serve the community, offering unique sound healing and wellness experiences that harmonize music and mindfulness. Check in will be at 4:30 and start time will be at 5:00pm
Wisconsin Rocks!! Guided Hike & Cave Tour!
Every Sunday in May & September - Except Memorial & Labor Day weekend Explore the stunning landscape above and below ground with our new experience - Wisconsin Rocks!! Guided Hike & Cave Tour. This adventure begins with a guided hike through the rolling terrain of a classic karst landscape, where you'll discover sinkholes, exposed limestone, and other geological wonders shaped by water over millions of years. Along the way, learn about the unique ecology and history of the area, including how the Cave of the Mounds was formed. After the hike, descend into the breathtaking depths of the cave for a guided tour through its awe-inspiring chambers. Marvel at the delicate formations, shimmering mineral deposits, and underground beauty that make this National Natural Landmark a must-see destination.
Artist Retreat - Sketch Work
Sundays in October 11th 18th 25th. Immerse yourself in the beauty of underground wonders and vibrant fall landscapes as you sketch and create in a peaceful, inspiring environment. All artists welcome, from professionals to novices: come take a rare opportunity to capture Cave of the Mounds in your sketchbook. Important Information for Attendees: For the protection and conservation of the cave, please DO NOT bring the following items: Paints (e.g. oil, acrylic, gouache, watercolor) Loose inks or markers that may bleed or spill Spray fixatives or aerosols Large easels or bulky gear Anything that could drip, stain, or leave residue
Historic Lantern Tour
Every Sunday in March & August Discover the cave like the first explorers. Walk through the cave using only lanterns and flashlights that are provided. Feel as though you are one of the first people to ever see the cave. Your guide will take you on an adventure while sharing the history & the geologic wonders of Cave of the Mounds. Cave of the Mounds was accidentally discovered during a quarry blast. The first who entered were quarry workers, a farmer, and a 17-year-old boy. They were the first to ever lay eyes on the cave as there are no natural entrances. No animal or human had ever seen the cave until 1939. Today there are more than 400 known caves in the state of Wisconsin but often found in people’s backyards like this one. In fact, cave explorers find hundreds of caves in America each year! Get a glimpse into the spelunking world!
Guided Fossil Tour
Every Sunday in February, July & November (except 7/5/26) Walk through what used to be an ancient ocean and look for fossils older than the dinosaurs. In a limestone cave, there are many fossils to see. Learn from our Cave Educator about different fossils that have been discovered. Fossilization is rare. According to the BBC, scientists estimate that less than one-tenth of 1% of all creatures on earth become fossils. Feel like a geologist, archeologist, or paleontologist by looking for fossils along the cave trail. A bag of fossils are included to take home at the end of the tour.