Looking for something a little different this holiday season? About two hours east of Cincinnati, the Christmas Cave in Minford turns an old gravel mine into a walk-through telling of the Christmas story, and it costs nothing to get in.
Related Article: Drive-Thru Holiday Lights in Cincinnati
Worth the Drive: Ohio’s Free Christmas Cave
The Christmas Cave is a free, self-guided walk through nearly a mile of displays, above and below ground, at the White Gravel Mines in Minford, Ohio. The mine’s passages are lit with scenes from the Christmas story, including three Nativity exhibits, plus two tunnels of lights and outdoor displays.
Volunteers have staged the display every year since 2016, and it has become one of southern Ohio’s best-known holiday traditions, drawing visitors from well beyond the region.
Christmas Cave Dates and Hours
The Christmas Cave is open 4 to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays on these dates:
- Nov. 20 and 21
- Nov. 27 and 28
- Dec. 4 and 5
- Dec. 11 and 12
- Dec. 18 and 19
No reservations are needed for general admission. Reservations are required for visitors who need mobility assistance and for field trips.
Location and Accessibility
The Christmas Cave is at 4007 White Gravel McDaniel Road in Minford. The caves are not handicap accessible. For directions and updates, visit the White Gravel Mines Christmas Cave page.
