See Howe Caverns in a different light, the way Lester Howe and his guests first saw it in 1842... by lantern light! Lantern Tours are offered Friday and Saturday nights year-round. Reservations are necessary by using the form below or calling 518-296-8900.

All lantern tours begin in the museum area with an extensive history. You will be guided through the caverns, to the underground lake, under the full beauty of the lights.

At the underground lake you will enjoy the boat ride by lantern light as well. During the boat ride, all lights will be turned off and torches and lanterns lighted. After the boat ride, the balance of the tour will be conducted with the lights off providing you with a totally different experience. The purpose is to explore the mystique of the caverns in a manner similar to the way the early visitors enjoyed their experience before discovering its full beauty under the lights.

Advance reservations are necessary and must be booked by 4pm the day previous to your tour. Lantern Tours, lasting two hours, begin at 5:30 pm any Friday or Saturday evening November through March. From April through October Lantern Tours begin at 6:30 pm. Cost is $27 (tax included) per person (up to 10 people per tour) to be paid at the time of reservation. Guests should plan on arriving 15 minutes before the tour starts. Lantern Tour Guests must be age 16 or older, with 16- and 17-year-olds accompanied by an adult. Our Lantern Tour is an "adult only" tour, and we reserve the right to require proof of age. Reservations may be made by calling (518) 296-8900. Don't forget to bring your camera! And remember, the cave is cool so jackets and pants for this two-hour experience are recommended.

We accept MasterCard, Visa, and Discover.

Lantern Tour Ticket Request Form

We also have Motel Lantern Tour Packages available. Click here for more information.