Editorial – March 2026
Location: Historic Crystal Cave, Kutztown, PA
Highlight: Top Photography Spot
Category: Photography/Travel Location Guides & Essentials
Are you looking for a place near you to do photography in Pennsylvania? Pamela Goodyer, an internationally acclaimed and renowned photographer, has curated the best photography locations and brings you all of the first-hand details.
We traveled to Kutztown, Pa., and explored this exceptional location, Crystal Cave, to create dynamic images and film. This trip isn’t just about nature photography; it’s a journey to a great family fun location. We also provide a few details about Kutztown, Pa.
Photography Magazine Extra❤️Loves Crystal Cave
Our seal of approval!
An interview with Joe Delong, the President of Crystal Cave, reveals the rich legacy his family has maintained since 1923. He shares essential insights into the cave’s history and operations, but it’s during the tour that visitors truly discover the deeper stories and fascinating details that make this place so special.
HISTORIC CRYSTAL CAVE, KUTZTOWN, PA.
Crystal Cave deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Our childhood trips here with our parents left memories that still resonate decades later. Inside, the limestone formations create an otherworldly atmosphere that sparks imagination. While the cave’s natural sculptures might tempt photographers, the real magic happens when experiencing the wonder alongside your children—watching their eyes widen as they descend into this underground realm. Pack up the family car; this adventure welcomes everyone, families and photographers alike.
WHERE IS CRYSTAL CAVE?
Crystal Cave is located in Berks County, just a short drive from Kutztown, Pennsylvania. 963 Crystal Cave Road, Kutztown, PA.
HOW DO I GET THERE?
From Philadelphia: About 1 hour 15 minutes via I-476 North and US-222 North.
From Allentown: About 30 minutes via PA-222 South.
WHAT ARE THE HOURS?
They vary based on the season – See the details below
ARE THEY OPEN ALL YEAR?
No, they are open March 1st through November, 7 days a week.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO VISIT CRYSTAL CAVE?
Crystal Cave Guided Tour Admission:
Age 12 & up – $21
Age 4-11 – $16
3 & under – Free
HOW LONG IS THE TOUR OF THE CAVE?
The one-hour tour includes a movie in the Crystal Cave Theater, presenting the history of Pennsylvania’s first show cave and the geology of caves.
IS THERE FOOD AVAILABLE?
The restaurant is open in the summer months. Call to be sure they are open at the beginning or end of the season.
Before or after your tour, be sure to browse the Crystal Cave Gift Shop’s diverse merchandise, where visitors can find mementos ranging from casual apparel adorned with cave motifs to elegant home décor.
The merchandise is very affordable. We were particularly drawn to the extensive crystal collection and selection of Himalayan salt lamps. They do have a few bat souvenirs to choose from. Some day we will share our rather harrowing encounter with bats—that tale deserves its own dedicated telling.
The Shop at Crystal Cave offers thousands of unusual rock and mineral specimens from around the world, including gemstones like Onyx, Agate, Amethyst and Quartz and more.
RESTAURANT/CAFE
Dutch Food Open daily during our summer season, the Crystal Cave Restaurant / Café offers a variety of food, beverages, and Dutch specialties.
With indoor and outdoor seating and fast, courteous service, the Restaurant.
Please call for availability. Phone: 610-683-6765
“GHOST” LANTERN TOURS 2026 SCHEDULE
This special tour offers spooky and intriguing ghostly experiences at the haunted cave, blending history with mystery. Guides, dressed in Victorian clothing, present the original Crystal Cave tour from the 1870s, along with curious and unexplained incidents that took place both inside the cave and on its grounds during the 1800s.
Visitors will explore Historic Crystal Cave illuminated by hand-held lantern light, hearing stories that have never been included in modern cavern tours. This unique experience promises to provide entertainment for the whole family.
Just so you know, photographers, we kindly suggest they consider a special tour on a day before or after the peak season for photographers with tripods. Just a thought!!
Reservations for the Ghost Lantern Tour are required and can be ordered by calling:
610-683-6765 • age 8-11 $23 • adults $30 – Price includes souvenir Crystal Cave lantern!
IMPORTANT: This tour is not recommended for children under the age of 8.
Our team is excited to return to Crystal Cave! We hope to photograph the beauty of the grounds during the fall when the foliage is in full color. This visit in March didn’t provide the best outdoor images with bare trees, so we’re looking forward to experiencing this landscape at our favorite time of year, when the leaves are vibrant.
We will also add some more colorful drone footage after our next visit!! Is it spring yet?
MORE VIDEO COMING UP SHORTLY
KUTZTOWN, PENNSYLVANIA
We drove through the main area and wandered around Kutztown just for a little while after our visit to the Crystal Cave. Kutztown is a charming small town in Berks County, Pennsylvania, known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and strong Pennsylvania Dutch heritage.
The town is home to Kutztown University, which brings a youthful energy and cultural events to the area. Visitors can explore historic architecture, local galleries, and seasonal festivals, including the famous Kutztown Folk Festival, which celebrates traditional crafts, music, and food.
Located in a picturesque valley, Kutztown offers easy access to natural attractions like parks, trails, and, of course, Crystal Cave, making it a popular spot for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
We plan to delve deeper into our exploration of the Town of Kutztown when we return to Crystal Cave, sometime after spring has sprung. Keep an eye out for our future article.
