Since opening in 2018, The Caverns has emerged as a powerful economic engine for Grundy County and the surrounding region, generating nearly $88 million in visitor spending and creating and supporting 146 jobs, according to a newly released economic impact report.

Located in the heart of Tennessee’s South Cumberland region, The Caverns is not only a celebrated destination for live music in a subterranean setting — it’s also a national tourism draw. An estimated 73 percent of ticket buyers come from out of state, traveling to Grundy County to experience concerts and underground adventures

The Caverns’ concert calendar features a carefully curated lineup that embraces a wide spectrum of musical expression and live entertainment — from country, Americana, rock, R&B, jam band, contemporary Christian, and electronic music to comedy shows and beyond. Showcasing Grammy winners as well as buzzworthy artists, The Caverns consistently delivers high-quality programming that draws fans eager to experience performances in a truly unique subterranean setting.

Key Economic Highlights from 2018–2025:

493,167 total visitors, with over 359,000 traveling from outside Tennessee

$87.8 million in total economic impact

$5.9 million in state sales and liquor taxes paid

$1.5 million in local sales and occupancy taxes paid to Grundy County

$1+ million in direct local wages from job creation across five counties

1.5 million invested in national and regional marketing since 2018

“The Caverns’ success proves that music and tourism can transform rural communities,” said Todd Mayo, founder and co-owner of The Caverns. “We’re proud not just to bring unforgettable experiences underground — but to contribute meaningfully above ground as well. That includes reinvesting in this iconic destination — from expanding our cave tours and building an outdoor amphitheater to opening a yurt village. Everything we do is focused on building something special in Grundy County for the long term.”

Beyond its economic contributions, The Caverns actively supports community initiatives including scholarships for Camp Caverns, the South Cumberland Community Fund (which backs the Music in Schools program in Grundy County), historic preservation efforts, and donations to organizations such as Recovery Soldiers Ministry, Blue Monarch, and Mosaic Recovery Center. Since 2018, The Caverns has contributed $150,000 in charitable giving and an additional $60,000 in concert experiences through gift certificate donations.

National exposure for The Caverns continues to grow through its acclaimed PBS television series, The Caverns Sessions, which airs on stations nationwide and is available via the PBS website and streaming app. The venue has also been featured in major national media outlets including Rolling Stone, The New York Times, and People, helping to put Grundy County on the map as a premier destination for music lovers and adventure seekers alike.

As The Caverns looks ahead to finishing 2025 strong, the venue remains committed to growing responsibly, investing locally, and helping Grundy County shine on the national stage.

To explore the full scope of The Caverns’ impact, go to https://www.thecaverns.com/eco...;.