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Q: P.M. asks, "We are considering visiting SDC this weekend with our five children. The youngest is 6 mos. and the last time we were there with a child in a stroller, we avoided the cave because we didn't want to leave

our personal (not rented) stroller and large diaper bag unsecured. Is there a provision for this? Also, I read that someone did not recommend carrying a child down the cave steps...does this mean we should avoid the cave again, and if not...any tips on maneuvering the baby through the narrowest passage? My older children (5, 7, 9, and 13) really want to do this activity, as do I."

A: I can't blame you and your kids for wanting to go through the cave.  It truly is spectacular!  But, I can also understand your concerns.  I too have visited the park with an infant and there are definitely some considerations to make in planning your trip when traveling with a child so young.  As to your concerns about leaving your stroller and diaper bag, Silver Dollar City does not provide secure areas around any of the rides/ attractions/ shows for leaving your stroller.  However, I can tell you from experience that I have brought my stroller to the park many times and left it outside various ride and show venues without any incident.  That being said, only you can decide if that is something you feel comfortable doing. 

While I have left my stroller, I typically do not leave my diaper bag, as it often contains the digital camera, wallets, keys, etc.  I would recommend either carrying the diaper bag with you or renting a locker on park.  Lockers are available for rent on a first-come-first served basis and are located behind the Ticket Booths, at Lost River Of The Ozarks, Wildfire®, PowderKeg® and outside of the Hospitality House (which is closest to the Cave entrance).  The cost for lockers is $ .50 for each entry. 

As I mentioned in a previous post, the Marvel Cave tour is considered somewhat strenuous.  The tour begins with a descent down 600 stairs into the Cathedral Room.  Marvel Cave is a wet limestone cave, so the natural setting is very damp.  I personally would not recommend carrying an infant down that many stairs unless you have a carrier that allows for your hands to be free to hold on to the railing.  In addition, the tour is around 60 minutes of walking, which would be a long time to carry a child on your own.  Maybe you could bring Grandma to the park?  That way you could enjoy the tour with your older children while she watches your youngest.  Hope this information has been helpful.