An hour and a half is realistic.
If you’re moving at a normal family pace – meaning a few photo stops, a bathroom break, and some “I’m tired” whining – the Goat Island loop plus Cave of the Winds takes about 90 minutes.
The loop itself is under two miles and mostly flat. Cave of the Winds adds the elevator ride, putting on the ponchos, walking out onto the wooden decks, and climbing back up. That part alone can be 30–45 minutes depending on crowd and how long the kids want to stare at the water.
Kids ages 6 and 10 can handle it fine. The 10-year-old won’t complain. The 6-year-old might need a snack bribe halfway through. Bring water and a poncho (or buy one there) – you’ll get soaked.
Your real variable is how long you stop. If you let them explore every viewpoint, tack on another 30 minutes. If you’re speed-walking, you can do it in under an hour, but why would you?
