WORTH THE DRIVE: Head underground for a holiday lights show in Louisville

For Dayton residents willing to brave the elements for this unforgettable experience, the city of Louisville is only a two and a half hour drive from the Miami Valley.

Each year, the Louisville Mega Cavern is transformed into a winter wonderland with 17 miles of 850 lit characters and over three million lights.

Visitors to Lights Under Louisville drive their own vehicle through the attraction. Though photos of the impressive lights displays are permitted, visitors are not allowed to get out of their cars or stop at any point along the lighted route.

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Brand new this year is the Christmas Express, a 30-minute daytime drive through the lights show in an open top trailer. Children will also have the chance to meet Santa at the Breakfast with Santa, on Saturday mornings, as well as on Sunday and Monday, Dec. 22-23. Times are 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

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The display will be open until Jan. 4 from 6-10 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 5-10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. General admission tickets are $27 per standard vehicle (car, pickup truck, full size SUV, or minivan). Those looking to avoid waiting in long lines can purchase the Christmas Priority Pass for $50 per standard vehicle.

WANT TO GO?

What: Lights Under Louisville

When: Open nightly through Jan. 4. Monday through Friday from 6-10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 5-10 p.m.

Where: Louisville Mega Cavern, 1841 Taylor Ave., Louisville, Kentucky

Cost: General admission is $27 per standard vehicle. Additional fees may apply when using a credit card. Visitors with over-sized vehicles must call for pricing. Christmas Express is $19.99 to $25.99 per person. Breakfast with Santa and Christmas Express is $49.99 per person. A Christmas Priority Pass is $49.99 per standard vehicle.

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