One of the most popular attractions in Missouri is actually under Missouri. Meramec Caverns, a 26-mile labyrinth of subterranean rooms and passages, was formed and shaped over the course of 400 million years (give or take a million years) and the caverns and a surrounding park have been a public tourist attraction since 1935. Today, Meramec State Park boasts all sorts of modern amenities to make the caving experience a pleasant one, including well-lighted walkways that wind past limestone formations such as an extremely rare three-legged natural "wine table," a sheet of limestone formations known as the "stage curtain," and a huge vaulted ballroom in which concerts and events are held several times a year.
Throughout history, Meramec Caverns has served several different purposes. Local Native American tribes used the cave as a shelter and revered it as the home of their god, while outlaw Jesse James and his gang used it as a hideout from the law. Today, however, visitors from nearby St. Louis and across the Midwest come to admire the spectacular limestone formations and seemingly endless passages. But it's not all stalagmites and stalactites: up at ground level, Meramec State Park offers canoe and raft rentals, riverboat rides on the Meramec River, and even the chance to pan for gold. Maybe you'll strike it rich like a 19th century prospector. Meramec is a one-hour drive from the Westin St. Louis.
