From Tim Chatlos on October 2, 2012 at 8:38 AM
The Marvel Cave takes the already exemplary Silver Dollar City experience to another level. And it's hard to convey just how spectacular the Cathedral Room is to see in person. I have yet to find a picture that does it justice. The entire space is like one of the most amazing movie sets you can imagine except all the better because it is real.

From James Rao on October 1, 2012 at 6:36 PM
Agreed, Tim. Also, one thing I did not mention is that the whole Cathedral Room is wired for sound. So, if you go on the Lantern Tour make sure to ask your tour guide to play the music. It is hauntingly beautiful.

From Tim Chatlos on October 1, 2012 at 10:11 PM
The music is a great touch. I couldn't stop smiling when we found out about it.

From Derek Potter on October 2, 2012 at 6:22 AM
The Cathedral room is indeed quite a sight, and sound. It's not for the claustrophobic or the out of shape, but it is definitely a noteworthy attraction at SDC. Very highly recommended.

From TH Creative on October 2, 2012 at 6:27 AM
(Standing and applauding) Well done J. Rao!

From AJ Hummel on October 2, 2012 at 9:55 AM
This looks a lot more like something you would expect to see at a national park than at a theme park. Definitely one of the most unique attractions out there and anyone who skips it on their visit to Silver Dollar City is really missing something special.

From Mark Fairleigh on October 2, 2012 at 10:36 AM
This is so cool...Thanks, J Rao! I can see a trip to Branson down the road for sure! :)

From Mike Gallagher on October 2, 2012 at 11:27 AM
"ghost stories that often scare the you-know-what out of several participants"

What? Don't leave us hanging, Rao!

From 170.40.160.26 on October 2, 2012 at 12:06 PM
James, Masterful job in describing this must see attraction. We sometimes forget that without Marvel Cave there would be no SDC! I did not realize that they put lights up during Christmas season. Looks like a winter SDC trip is in order this year. Thanks for continuing to spread the word about this gem of a theme park! Marvel Cave is just one more reason that SDC is so near and dear to many hearts.

From Russell Meyer on October 2, 2012 at 12:25 PM
As a geologist, I'm not a huge fan of "commercial" caves. I've always been partial to Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico, which has an aptly named "Big Room," which can hold 14 Houston Astrodomes. Mammoth Cave in Kentucky is also a sight to behold, especially if you know some of the off-the-beaten path entraces that allow for some serious spelunking.

The photographer in me likes the artifical light conditions in commercial caves that allow for hand-held timed exposures, but the geologist in me cringes when I see naieve tourists snapping flash pictures of highly light-sensitive formations.

I haven't been to any midwest caves yet, so maybe in a few years, I'll check this place out.

From James Rao on October 2, 2012 at 1:48 PM
@Mike, Is "bat guano" a family friendly term? If so, that works I guess! =)

@Russel, if you need another excuse to visit the Marvel Cave, remember, Outlaw Run opens next Spring!

And thanks to the rest of y'all for your kind words. I look forward to your "Attraction of the Week" articles in the future!

From Tim Hillman on October 3, 2012 at 7:57 AM
Excellent article, James! For once we get an article about a Bat Cave and guano, and there's not one mention of a Six Flags park in it. ;>)

I'll have to check out SDC sometime on one of my many roads trips across the country.