Lots of Iowans have visited Spook Cave or Maquoketa Caves State Park, but have you ever heard of Crystal Lake Cave? This smaller, quieter cave outside of Dubuque is one of the most fascinating destinations and one of the best caves in Iowa. Come along as we show you why you've simply got to plan a visit! And don't forget your camera to get some incredible shots below the surface of the earth.

Crystal Lake Cave was discovered in the late 1800s, and opened to the public in 1932.

You can find the cave at 6684 Crystal Lake Cave Dr. in Dubuque, Iowa.

For millions of years, this cave has been growing stalactites and stalagmites below the surface of Iowa's land.

Today, you can visit and tour this incredible, historic cave and see history in the making.

The cave is fairly accessible, and most walking paths are paved. You'll start by heading underground from the entrance.

Crystal Lake itself is only visible and accessible through one hole in the cave's wall. The 30 foot long lake is just 2 feet deep!

The stalactites and stalagmites here are continually growing. If it's hanging from the ceiling, it's a stalactite. If it's growing from the cave floor, it's a stalagmite.

Each unique formation here has a name - you'll notice the signs as you pass by them all.

When you get to "The Chapel", be sure to look up! The ceiling is absolutely breathtaking.

The gorgeous and eerie Lost Garden is a favorite of visitors, as well.

All it takes is one visit to Crystal Lake Cave to see why Iowans have been coming here since the 1930s to see the wonders of natural science in person.

You can see an aerial view of the hills surrounding Crystal Lake Cave on the cave website, but nothing beats seeing it in person.

Crystal Lake Cave typically opens for weekend tours in early May, and after Labor Day it is open daily. To learn more about taking Crystal Lake Cave tours, their location, and their hours of operation, be sure to check out the Crystal Lake Cave website, as well as the Crystal Lake Cave LLC Facebook page.

Have you ever been to this exciting attraction? If so, what was your favorite part? Do you have any great Crystal Lake Cave photos to share? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

After you've spent a few hours exploring these wild caves, stop by Dubuque itself and learn about the oldest, most historic town in Iowa.

Thinking about taking an Iowa vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.

If you’re still in the mood for more Iowa adventures, take a look at this video: