FORT PAYNE, Ala. (AP) — An Alabama tourist attraction that’s been in operation for nearly 50 years is closing.

Tourism officials say Sequoyah Caverns and Ellis Homestead will close Sept. 3.

Sequoyah Caverns has attracted thousands of families, school groups and travelers over the years. The attraction, known for its “looking glass lakes,” is at the foot of Sand Mountain in northeast Alabama.

The Fort Payne Times-Journal reports that the lakes reflect thousands of intricate rock formations in the cave. The cave also features towering stalagmites, waterfalls and writings on the walls dating back to the early 1800s.

Owner John Jones tells The Chattanooga Times Free Press that he’s 79, and simply decided it was time to close the attraction and retire. The privately owned property has been in the Jones family since 1841.