Mission Ordovician at Cave of the Mounds

January 2025

Written by Stalac-Tate

Mission Ordovician from February 9th through February 15th, 2025

Mission Ordovician Week takes you on a journey back in time to explore life on Earth over 450 million years ago! Discover how the region’s limestone formed under a shallow sea teeming with marine life during the Ordovician Period.

As part of the celebration, guests can enjoy hands-on activities such as fossil hunts for just $2 per bag, guided tours highlighting Ordovician geology, and the chance to see real fossils from this ancient era. Learn about cephalopods, crinoids and other fascinating creatures that once thrived in this prehistoric ocean. 

This educational and engaging event is ideal for history buffs, geology enthusiasts, and families looking for a fun and interactive way to connect with Earth’s distant past!

This family-friendly event is perfect for fossil enthusiasts, young adventurers, and anyone eager to learn more about Earth’s prehistoric past. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with history in the heart of one of Wisconsin’s natural wonders!

This add-on can be purchased at the Ticket Desk for $2 in addition to a regular ticket.

Travel back in time to over 450 million years ago during Mission Ordovician Week at Cave of the Mounds! This exciting event offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of the Ordovician Period, when Wisconsin was beneath a warm shallow sea teeming with extraordinary marine life.

Event Highlights:

  • Fossil Collection: Explore ancient history by collecting real fossils from the Ordovician era for just $2 per bag. This hands-on activity is perfect for budding paleontologists of all ages. Collect these fossils at stations in the cave.

  • Guided Tours: Discover the geological wonders of the cave and learn how its stunning limestone formations were created during this prehistoric time. Sundays have a specific Fossil Tour where guides point out all the fossils of the cave!

“Mission Ordovician Week gives visitors a unique chance to connect with Earth’s distant past while learning about the incredible history preserved in our region,” said Tate Phillip, Assistant General Manager. “It’s an educational and engaging way to explore the story of how life on our planet evolved.”

This family-friendly event is designed for geology enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious adventurers alike. Mission Ordovician Week provides a rare opportunity to uncover the secrets of ancient seas while exploring one of Wisconsin’s most treasured natural landmarks.

Event Details:

  • Dates: February 9th through 15th, 2025

  • Shark Teeth Activity: $2 per bag, available at the Ticket Desk (must be purchased in addition to a regular cave tour ticket)

  • Location: Cave of the Mounds National Natural Landmark, Blue Mounds, Wisconsin