Housed in the former Cave House – a hotel built of cut limestone circa 1872 - located next to the original entrance to the cave – the Cave House Museum of Mining & Geology gives visitors two very different looks at the natural world.

First, it explores the geology of the caverns: millions of years in the making and dotted with fossils from an ancient sea. Second, it presents a working stone quarry: the caverns' industrial side with uses in everything from highways and building materials to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

The museum tells the story of Lester Howe's early tours and showcases the role the cave has played in the history of the region through photographs, documents, including exhibits and artifacts, as well as classrooms for guest lecturers. The museum also highlights the important work that is now underway in the reclamation of a major section of the cave (not seen in more than 100 years) that will rejoin the Howe Caverns Visitors Center to Lester Howe's original cave entrance.

The Cave House Museum of Mining & Geology will provide an engaging showcase of the past, present, and future of our nation's geologic resources and their responsible industrial development. By serving the general public, the mining industry, and geology enthusiasts, future generations will continue to appreciate the value of the world's natural resources as important educational, recreational, and industrial assets.

The little community of Howes Cave is truly one of the world's most unique settings, offering numerous educational opportunities to explore the natural world and human interaction with it.

Located within a working stone quarry, The Cave House Museum of Mining & Geology will be a combined science center and interactive museum - an educational attraction for students of all ages, families, and the general public. 

Hours:
Sat & Sun Noon - 5pm, Memorial Day - June 30, September 2 - Columbus Day.
Fri, Sat, Sun Noon - 5pm, July 1-Labor Day.

Admission: FREE 

The Museum is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization, holding a Provisional Charter with the New York State Education Department (State Museum)
DONATIONS ALWAYS APPRECIATED 

Group Visitation:

The Cave House Museum welcomes small groups (maximum 35 people) such as historical societies, educational groups, senior groups, scouts, etc. to visit with their organization for a special presentation provided by a Cave House director and/or curator. Please call in advance to schedule your visit.

Gift Shop: 

The Museum Gift Shop has a variety of items to offer featuring products related to stone from around the world. 

Museum location and mailing address:

The Cave House Museumm of Mining & Geology 

139 Blowing Rock Road

PO Box 700

Howes Cave, NY 12092

518-296-8800

CURRENTLY UNDER RESTORATION