Fairgrounds Tour (Fee Free Days)
Tour sold out? Additional tickets are available for same-day purchase at the park visitor center. Visit the Guided Tours page of the park website for a current schedule.
NOTE: Fees are waived for this tour only on these Fee Free Days in 2023: April 22, August 4, November 11. Explore both the upper and middle levels of Wind Cave. This tour offers plenty for those wanting to see a variety of features on their tour with abundant boxwork in the middle level of the cave and larger rooms, popcorn, and frostwork in the upper level. This 1.5-hour strenuous tour enters and exits the cave by elevator. Navigating 450 stairs, including one flight of 89 steps going up along the 0.6-mile (1 km) route, it’s not just the features that will leave you breathless.
Select a date to see a list of times
Need to Know
- Claiming Reserved Tickets
Tickets must be picked up 30 minutes prior to tour time. No refunds for late arrivals or missed tours. All tours begin at the Visitor Center. Allow extra travel time to the park for road work, reduced speeds, wildlife on roads, and parking.
- Covid-19
Check at the visitor center for current Covid-related safety precautions. Face coverings may be required during periods of high infection rates.
- Cave Conditions
Tour includes paved surfaces that may be uneven, wet, or slippery, and are wheelchair-accessible with assistance. Passages are dimly-lit and narrow; low ceilings require frequent ducking. Wind Cave is 54°F (12°C) year-round.
- Health Considerations
Cave tours are moderately strenuous and not recommended for those with heart problems, breathing difficulty, knee, neck, or back pain, or claustrophobia. Even downward flights of stairs may be difficult for those with bad joints or limited stamina.
- Prohibited Items
Please don’t bring any of these items into the cave:
- Food, candy, or gum
- Water or other drinks
- Tobacco products
- Firearms or weapons of any kind
- Bags, purses, strollers, backpacks – including baby backpack carriers (front carriers allowed)
- Walking sticks, tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks
- Pets or comfort animals
- What to Wear
Sturdy shoes or hiking boots and a light jacket or sweater are recommended. Sandals and flip-flops are NOT recommended.
- Photography
Flash photography is allowed. Photographers must keep up with the group. No tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks.
