“Offering our young guests more opportunities to be curious, ask questions, and learn about cave conservation is central to Ruby Falls’ mission of inspiring extraordinary connections to nature through wonder and adventure,” said Hollie Baranick, Tours & Guest Experience Manager at Ruby Falls. “Junior Cavers are the next generation of geologists, conservationists, and cavers. Even at a young age, they are leaders who can share with others how important caves are and how we can work together to protect them.”

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Due to limited availability, purchasing tickets online several days in advance is strongly recommended. For more information about the Junior Caver Tour and to book tickets, visit www.RubyFalls.com or call (423) 821-2544.

Junior Caver Tour Media Kit

About Ruby Falls

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Ruby Falls is home to the nation’s tallest underground waterfall open to the public. The park’s diverse ecosystem fosters deep connections to nature for over half a million visitors annually through unforgettable experiences on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Guests enjoy guided cave tours to see the waterfall discovered 98 years ago, spectacular views of the Cumberland Plateau, gliding seasonal ziplines, luxury treehouse lodging, and award-winning special events. The park’s historic castle built in 1929 features a casual café and beautiful private event venue. Committed to cave conservation and recognized as a tourism leader in environmental sustainability, Ruby Falls is the first attraction in the United States to earn certification from Green Globe, the internationally respected standard for environmental sustainability, and is a recipient of the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award for Excellence. www.rubyfalls.com

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Since 2018, 347,069 people have participated in the month-long heart health challenge. Together, participants have walked an extraordinary 1,040,356,706 steps at the park—surpassing one billion steps since the launch of the 100 Million Steps in March initiative.

Ruby Falls visitors typically average 3,800 steps while exploring the park, walking the cavern trail to the iconic waterfall, visiting scenic overlooks, and climbing the stairs to the top of historic Lookout Mountain Tower, where they are rewarded with breathtaking views. Team members at Ruby Falls often log over 10,000 steps each day while working in the park.

“Our partnership with the AHA allows us to show just how powerful a simple activity like walking can be for heart health,” says Hugh Morrow, CEO and President of Ruby Falls. “Every step toward a healthier lifestyle helps lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, the number one threat to women’s health.  Bringing this awareness to the thousands of guests visiting Ruby Falls during the month of March is a unique opportunity to amplify this message and support the AHA Go Red for Women initiative.”

“Community partnerships are at the heart of our mission to build longer, healthier lives,” said Colby Woods, Go Red for Women director of the American Heart Association in Chattanooga. “Working with local leaders like Ruby Falls allows us to meet people exactly where they are and make heart health more accessible for everyone. Initiatives like 100 Million Steps in March show how powerful it can be when our community comes together. Every step creates momentum for better health across the Tennessee Valley.”

Throughout March, the AHA Go Red for Women Survivor Gallery is on display at Ruby Falls, featuring powerful stories of heart disease and stroke survivors from the greater Chattanooga region. Guests are invited to sign the large “100 Million Steps in March” banner to mark their participation and collect commemorative buttons (while supplies last) as a reminder that walking for health is easy to incorporate into daily life. For more information, visit www.rubyfalls.com/events/100-million-steps-in-march/

100 Million Steps in March Media Kit 

About Ruby Falls

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Ruby Falls is home to the nation’s tallest underground waterfall open to the public. The park’s diverse ecosystem fosters deep connections to nature for over half a million visitors annually through unforgettable experiences on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Guests enjoy guided cave tours to see the waterfall discovered 98 years ago, spectacular views of the Cumberland Plateau, seasonal ziplines, luxury treehouse lodging, and award-winning special events. The park’s historic castle built in 1929 features a casual café and beautiful private event venue. Committed to cave conservation and recognized as a tourism leader in environmental sustainability, Ruby Falls is the first attraction in the United States to earn certification from Green Globe, the internationally respected standard for environmental sustainability, and is a recipient of the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award for Excellence.

American Heart Association Go Red for Women

As the signature women’s initiative for the American Heart Association, Go Red for Women is a passionate movement designed to empower women to make their heart health a priority. Cardiovascular diseases cause nearly one in three deaths in women each year. However, preventative measures through education and living a healthy lifestyle can decrease that statistic by 80 percent. For more information, please visit GoRedForWomen.org or call 423-763-4400.

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(March 02, 2026)

All team entry fees are donated to Lana’s Love Foundation, a Chattanooga nonprofit that provides fun, year-round activities for local kids fighting cancer and their families.

Registered teams receive meat for the competition, as well as a swag bag filled high with two 2026 Battle Below the Clouds t-shirts, one Battle Below the Clouds apron, two admission tickets to High Point ZIP Adventure at Ruby Falls, two Ruby Falls Cave Walk tickets, and surprises from event sponsors.

Spots are limited and fill quickly. A waiting list will open once all competition spots are full. Teams can find all competition information at www.rubyfalls.com/events/battle-below-the-clouds/.

Battle Below the Clouds Media Kit

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(January 6, 2026) – A one-of-a-kind date night adventure launches at Ruby Falls this Valentine’s season on select February evenings. Romance at Ruby welcomes couples for an unforgettable lantern-lit, after-hours guided tour of Ruby Falls Caverns, sweet keepsakes and tales of legendary love stories.

During the scenic stroll to the waterfall, a Ruby Falls guide shares the inspiring love story of Leo Lambert and his wife, Ruby, that led to the accidental discovery of Ruby Falls. Romance at Ruby tours are capped at 10 couples, creating a peaceful, inspiring setting for lingering longer at the stunning waterfall and ancient formations illuminated by the gentle glow of hand-held lanterns.

“Romance at Ruby is inspired by the remarkable love story at the heart of our park’s history,” shares Hollie Baranick, tours and special projects manager. “Leo’s love for Ruby led him to find what many consider to be one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls.”

The recommended 30-minute early arrival gives guests the opportunity to enjoy gorgeous views of the moonlit Tennessee River, sparkling city lights and twinkling stars from a top historic Lookout Mountain Tower and relax fireside in the park’s cozy limestone castle before the tour begins.

Because only a limited number of tickets are available, advance ticket purchase is necessary at rubyfalls.com. Romance at Ruby tickets are $95.95 per couple and include the special Valentine’s after-hours tour for two guests, keepsake photo and gift. Purchase tickets early, as this multi-night event sells out quickly.

For reservations and information, visit www.rubyfalls.com/things-to-do/romance-at-ruby/

DIGITAL MEDIA KIT: CLICK HERE

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About Ruby Falls

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Ruby Falls is home to the nation’s tallest underground waterfall open to the public. The park’s diverse ecosystem fosters deep connections to nature for over half a million visitors annually through unforgettable experiences on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Guests enjoy guided cave tours to see the waterfall discovered 97 years ago, spectacular views of the Cumberland Plateau, gliding seasonal ziplines, luxury treehouse lodging, and award-winning special events. The park’s historic castle built in 1929 features a casual café and beautiful private event venue. Committed to cave conservation and recognized as a tourism leader in environmental sustainability, Ruby Falls is the first attraction in the United States to earn certification from Green Globe, the internationally respected standard for environmental sustainability, and is a recipient of the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award for Excellence.

The post Love Runs Deep at the Park: Ruby Falls Launches One-of-a-Kind Valentine’s Date Night appeared first on Ruby Falls.

(November 11, 2025)

Return to a simpler time on Lookout Mountain at Ruby Falls. Discover magical views, twinkling holiday lights on the Village Plaza, and festive cheer in historic Ruby Falls Castle with special activities. Add your handwritten holiday wish to the Forest of Wishes, enjoy iconic cave adventures, and stay for a casual meal, local craft beer, seasonal treats and hot cocoa by the fireplace at Castle Cafe.

Cave adventure tickets not required to enjoy the historic cafe.

WHEN: Holiday festivities begin November 28 and continue through December 24. Ruby Falls is open daily, times vary. Santa visits on select days.

WHERE: Ruby Falls, 1720 Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409.

DETAILS: Cave adventure tickets sold online only; admission $18.95 – $41.95. Purchase tickets several days in advance online for best availability. To buy tickets, see Santa’s schedule and more, visit https://www.rubyfalls.com/events/ruby-falls-christmas/

Holiday images + press kit: CLICK HERE 

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About Ruby Falls

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Ruby Falls is home to the nation’s tallest underground waterfall open to the public. The park’s diverse ecosystem fosters deep connections to nature for over half a million visitors annually through unforgettable experiences on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Guests enjoy guided tours of the cave discovered 97 years ago, sweeping views of the Cumberland Plateau, soaring ziplines, luxury treehouse lodging, award-winning special events, and the park’s historic castle built in 1929 featuring a casual café and beautiful private event venue. Committed to cave conservation and recognized as a tourism leader in environmental sustainability, Ruby Falls is the first attraction in the United States to earn certification from Green Globe, the internationally respected standard for environmental sustainability, and is a recipient of the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award for Excellence

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During the guided walk through the cave, Geology Tour guests will uncover the natural processes behind some of the cavern’s most unique features, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s ancient geological history, hidden deep within the mountain.

“Development of the Geology Tour is a collaborative effort between Ruby Falls and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Geology department,” shares Hollie Baranick, Tours & Guest Experience Manager at Ruby Falls. “Guides leading this tour extensively researched specific aspects of Ruby Falls Cave, and Dr. Amy Brock-Hon, UTC Professor of Geology and Associate Department Head, finalized key points. Lookout Mountain’s incredible biodiversity and Ruby Falls Cave’s ease of access create an exceptional opportunity to share how nature has been shaped over millions of years.”

A senior-level guide leads this specialty tour’s small group of participants to the waterfall, pointing out fossils embedded in limestone along the cavern trail while explaining many factors influencing the dissolution of limestone through water. Participants will discover how, over the course of thousands of years, chemical reactions create formations in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and hues. With extra time at the waterfall, cave-curious visitors can take in the rugged beauty of the towering, water-etched limestone walls in the dome section of the cave.

“Feedback from park guests highlights a rising interest in diving deeper into the natural science of the cave. The new Geology Tour launches in response to their curiosity,” says Abe McCauley, Director of Operations at Ruby Falls. “The Geology Tour is an impactful way to connect closely with the science and beauty of Lookout Mountain and gain an understanding of the importance of preserving the delicate ecosystem in caves.”

With the limited number of participants permitted on Geology Tours, purchasing tickets several days in advance is recommended. Due to the in-depth information presented, the Geology Tour is for guests ages 5 and older.

Geology Tour Media Kit and Photos available at: https://bit.ly/rf-geology

About Ruby Falls

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Ruby Falls is home to the nation’s tallest underground waterfall open to the public. The park’s diverse ecosystem fosters deep connections to nature for over half a million visitors annually through unforgettable experiences on Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Guests enjoy guided tours of the cave discovered 97 years ago, sweeping views of the Cumberland Plateau, soaring ziplines, luxury treehouse lodging, award-winning special events, and the park’s historic castle built in 1929 featuring a casual café and beautiful private event venue. Committed to cave conservation and recognized as a tourism leader in environmental sustainability, Ruby Falls is the first attraction in the United States to earn certification from Green Globe, the internationally respected standard for environmental sustainability, and is a recipient of the Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Award for Excellence. www.rubyfalls.com

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CHATTANOOGA, TN  – A new exhibit, hosted by Ruby Falls from July 30 to November 6, 2025, highlights Chattanooga’s historic Black business district. Curated by historian Stefanie Haire, Ph.D., Building the Big Nine: A Legacy of Black Excellence explores the profound influence, enduring spirit and achievements of the Big Nine District. Flourishing in the late 1800s through the mid-20th century, the district became the vibrant center of Black commerce, culture and community, shaped by the determination and vision of Black men and women navigating the deep complexities of racial discrimination.

Centered along Chattanooga’s 9th Street, renamed Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard in 1981, and encompassing the surrounding areas, the Big Nine District was pivotal for generations of Black entrepreneurs, artists and families who forged significant economic growth and community collaboration.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

The exhibit spotlights a selection of the district’s businesses and cultural centers, as well as the international attention gained when prominent historian and sociologist W.E.B. Du Bois included Chattanooga’s Black community in his contribution to the 1900 Paris Exposition.

“The Big Nine District’s considerable economic, cultural, and social influence was transformative in Chattanooga’s development,” says Stefanie Haire, Ph.D, historian and curator of the exhibit. “By exploring this part of our city’s history, we not only honor its legacy but also gain inspiration from a community that turned struggle into ambition, entrepreneurship and collective empowerment that resisted limits.”

The exhibit features contributions from the Tennessee State Library and Archives, the Library of Congress, the Chattanooga Public Library, the Picnooga/Chattanooga Historical Society, Tennessee State University, the New York Public Library, the Franklin Family, ChattanoogaHistory.com, and the Bessie Smith Cultural Center.

Building the Big Nine is projected to reach more than 170,000 visitors while hosted by Ruby Falls. Drawing guests from 44 states and 42 countries in 2024, the Lookout Mountain park provides a unique opportunity for collaboration in celebrating Chattanooga’s Black heritage.

In 2023, Ruby Falls hosted the exhibit, Through the Lens: The Life and Legacy of Horace Brazelton, curated by Dr. Haire. Mr. Brazelton was a trailblazing, nationally recognized professional photographer. He was the first African American to open a professional photography studio in Chattanooga and was a prominent civic leader. The Big Nine District was home to Horace Brazelton and his business from 1906 to 1956. Several photos of business owners featured in Building the Big Nine are attributed to Horace Brazelton.

“The history behind the Big Nine district speaks to how a community can organize in the face of adversity and the power of the human spirit,” says Hugh Morrow, Ruby Falls president and CEO. “This is a story that resonates with people, regardless of where they live, because it inspires understanding. The Big Nine is a Chattanooga story, and it is also the story of many cities across the United States. The Ruby Falls team is honored to share this exhibit with Chattanoogans as well as our guests who visit from all over the world.”

VISIT THE EXHIBIT

Exhibit admission is free and open to the public, July 30, 2025 – November 6, 2025. Ruby Falls tickets are not required to visit the exhibit. For more information, visit www.rubyfalls.com/events/building-the-big-nine/. Visitors are encouraged to learn more by visiting the Bessie Smith Cultural Center and Chattanooga African American Museum.

CLICK FOR EXHIBIT MEDIA KIT 

G. W. Franklin, photo by Horace Brazelton. Courtesy of Cheryl Franklin Key & John “Duke” Franklin, Jr.

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Ruby Falls partners with the Chattanooga Public Library and the Cherokee Regional Library System to offer park Adventure Passes to participants in their respective Summer Reading Programs. While supplies last, readers can win free admission to Ruby Falls for a guided Cave Walk to the Waterfall. Each pass admits up to 2 adults and 2 children, giving young readers the opportunity to explore the wonder of nature at Ruby Falls. A total of 180 passes were donated to the two library systems and will be available at all library locations.

WHEN: Check with your local library to learn more about how to join their Summer Reading Program and win prizes. Ruby Falls Adventure Passes are valid from July 14 – Nov 15, 2025 (excluding Aug 29 – Sept 1).

WHERE: Passes are available at all locations of the Chattanooga Public Library and the Cherokee Regional Library System.

Chattanooga Public Library branches include Downtown, Northgate, Eastgate, South Chattanooga, and Avondale. The Cherokee Regional Library System has branches located in Rossville, Chickamauga, LaFayette and Trenton.

DETAILS: More information about Ruby Falls can be found at www.RubyFalls.com. Library locations, events, hours and more can be found at www.chattlibrary.org and www.chrl.org.

Approved images & press kit: Click Here

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(April 22, 2025) — Gather for a day of mouthwatering BBQ, live bluegrass, friendly competition, food-trucks, and family fun at the 10th Annual Battle Below the Clouds BBQ Festival and Cook-Off benefiting the Lana’s Love Foundation! Set against stunning views of the Cumberland Plateau from Lookout Mountain, the much-anticipated outdoor event returns to Ruby Falls on Saturday, May 3, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Come hungry and support a great cause. Festival admission is free; instead, donations to Lana’s Love Foundation are encouraged. The Chattanooga area nonprofit is dedicated to hosting fun activities throughout the year for local children with cancer and their families.

What to Expect:

• Live bluegrass kicks off on the entertainment stage with Mountain Cove Bluegrass (10:15 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.) and continues with Lou Wamp & the Bluetastics (1:45 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.).
• Watch 15 amateur BBQ teams go head-to-head in for awards in five categories: Pork Butt, Ribs, Chicken Wings, and the Jim Brewer People’s Choice Award. Vote for your favorite team.
• Children’s activities include face painting, caricature artists and outdoor games, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• BBQ, drinks, and more available for purchase from Jonny Poppers, Choo Choo BBQ, and The Bitter Alibi, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (while supplies last).
• Enter for a chance to win amazing door prizes, including Atlanta Braves tickets and a Solo Stove Smokeless Fire Pit.
• Competition Award Ceremonies: 1:15 p.m. Chicken Wings winners, 4:30 p.m. Pork Butt, Ribs, Grand Champion and People’s Choice winners.
• Free parking available at the park. Cave access is not included with festival admission.

More event information available at: www.rubyfalls.com/events/battle-below-the-clouds/

Media Kit: CLICK HERE

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Ruby Falls is home to the tallest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. The park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers guided tours of the cave, soaring ziplines, breathtaking views of the Cumberland Plateau, luxury treehouse lodging, and a historic castle with cozy café and private event venue. Dedicated to cave conservation and environmental sustainability, Ruby Falls is the first attraction in the United States to earn certification from Green Globe and is recognized as a leader in tourism sustainability.

“We are honored to receive the distinction of Newsweek’s Best Cave Adventure,” said Hugh Morrow, president and CEO of Ruby Falls. “Lookout Mountain’s diverse ecosystem and the park’s unusual history create a unique blend of memorable experiences for guests. We look forward to continuing the tradition of fostering deep connections to nature.”

Ruby Falls topped the list of winners in the Newsweek Reader’s Choice voting, followed by Luray Caverns (Luray, Virginia), Mammoth Cave National Park (Mammoth Cave, Kentucky), Carlsbad Caverns (Carlsbad, New Mexico), Bridal Cave and Thunder Mountain Park (Camdenton, Missouri), Mark Twain Cave Complex (Hannibal, Missouri), Natural Bridge Caverns (New Braunfels, Texas), Kartchner Caverns State Park (Benson, Arizona), Jewel Cave National Monument (Custer, South Dakota), and Wind Cave National Park (Hot Springs, South Dakota).

To view Newsweek’s official announcement, visit: https://www.newsweek.com/readerschoice/best-cave-adventure-2025

Approved images & press kit: https://bit.ly/rubyfalls_nw

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About Ruby Falls

Celebrating 96 years since its discovery, Ruby Falls is home to the tallest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. Over half a million guests visit the thundering waterfall annually, located 1,120 feet beneath the summit of Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, TN. Committed to cave conservation and environmental sustainability, Ruby Falls is the first attraction in the United States to earn certification from Green Globe and is recognized as a leader in tourism sustainability. www.RubyFalls.com.

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