30 Dinosaur Attractions That Are Fun For The Whole Family

Roaring with excitement and packed with prehistoric wonders, dinosaur attractions bring ancient worlds to life in a way that’s fun for all ages. These immersive spots blend hands-on discovery with larger-than-life displays, letting families walk among towering replicas, dig for real fossils, and explore the science behind Earth’s earliest giants.

Whether you’re mapping out a road trip or just looking for your next weekend adventure, these destinations offer the perfect mix of education and jaw-dropping fun.

1. Dinosaur National Monument – Colorado/Utah

Embedded in stunning canyon walls are over 1,500 dinosaur fossils waiting to be discovered by eager explorers of all ages.

Dinosaur National Monument stretches across state lines and offers a rare chance to see actual fossils still in the rock where paleontologists found them. Beyond the famous quarry wall, families can enjoy river rafting, camping, and hiking through landscapes once roamed by these ancient giants.

2. Jurassic Park River Adventure – Universal Orlando, Florida

Hold onto your hats as this thrilling water ride sends you splashing through a prehistoric jungle filled with animatronic dinosaurs that seem eerily alive!

The Jurassic Park River Adventure begins peacefully enough, floating past gentle herbivores before things go terribly wrong. The grand finale features an 85-foot plunge to escape a roaring T. rex – guaranteed to soak riders and delight fans of the iconic film series.

3. Field Museum’s Sue The T. Rex – Chicago, Illinois

Standing 13 feet tall and stretching 40 feet from nose to tail, this magnificent skeleton remains the largest, most complete T. rex ever discovered.

Sue at the Field Museum has captivated visitors since 2000. The exhibit includes fascinating details about this 67-million-year-old predator’s life, injuries, and the legal battles that followed her discovery. Interactive displays help kids understand Sue’s world through paleontologist-approved science.

4. Dinosaur World – Cave City, Kentucky

Wander through lush woodland trails where life-sized dinosaur replicas lurk around every corner, creating perfect photo opportunities for dino-obsessed kids.

Dinosaur World combines outdoor adventure with prehistoric education. Young paleontologists can dig for fossils in the mining area, explore the museum section, or simply enjoy the playground. The gift shop offers unique souvenirs that will extend the dinosaur excitement long after you’ve returned home.

5. Prehistoric Gardens – Port Orford, Oregon

Nestled within a lush coastal rainforest, towering dinosaur sculptures create a magical journey through time for visitors young and old. Prehistoric Gardens offers a unique blend of botanical beauty and prehistoric wonder.

The 23 life-sized dinosaurs, including an 86-foot Brachiosaurus, have delighted families since 1955. The self-guided tour winds through native ferns and moss-draped trees, creating an authentic Jurassic atmosphere along Oregon’s scenic coast.

6. Dinosaur Valley State Park – Glen Rose, Texas

Follow real dinosaur footprints preserved in ancient limestone riverbeds where massive sauropods and predatory theropods once roamed 113 million years ago.

Dinosaur Valley State Park offers an authentic connection to prehistoric times. Families can wade in the Paluxy River to touch genuine dinosaur tracks, hike scenic trails, or camp under the stars. Rangers provide educational programs that bring these ancient creatures to life through stories and fossil demonstrations.

7. The Dinosaur Place At Nature’s Art Village – Oakdale, Connecticut

Over 40 life-sized dinosaurs await discovery along scenic nature trails, creating an outdoor adventure that perfectly blends learning with active play. The Dinosaur Place features New England’s largest splash pad, making it perfect for summer visits.

Kids can navigate Thunder Creek, a dinosaur-themed maze, or test their archaeological skills at the fossil dig area. The nearby Discovery Center offers gems, minerals, and additional prehistoric exhibits to round out your dino-day.

8. Royal Tyrrell Museum – Drumheller, Alberta, Canada

World-class exhibits showcase over 160,000 fossils, including specimens you won’t find anywhere else on the planet. The Royal Tyrrell Museum stands as Canada’s only museum dedicated exclusively to paleontology.

Located in the fossil-rich badlands, visitors can view complete dinosaur skeletons, participate in hands-on activities, or join guided hikes to active dig sites. The “Dinosaur Hall” alone houses 40 mounted dinosaur skeletons that will leave everyone speechless.

9. Badlands Dinosaur Museum – Dickinson, North Dakota

Remarkable fossils unearthed from the surrounding badlands region tell the story of North Dakota’s prehistoric past through engaging, family-friendly exhibits. The Badlands Dinosaur Museum houses an impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons and rare fossils.

Kids love the hands-on discovery area where they can touch real fossils. The museum’s compact size makes it perfect for younger children with shorter attention spans, while still fascinating enough for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.

10. Dinosaur Park – Rapid City, South Dakota

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city, seven concrete dinosaurs from the 1930s create a charming, retro photo opportunity that’s become a beloved roadside classic. Dinosaur Park combines vintage charm with panoramic Black Hills views.

While scientifically outdated, these free-standing sculptures represent an important era in how we’ve portrayed dinosaurs throughout history. Kids love climbing on the dinosaurs (climbing is allowed!), making this quick stop a memorable addition to any Black Hills vacation.

11. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center – Glen Rose, Texas

Safari adventures take families through 1,800 acres where exotic animals roam freely, complemented by fascinating prehistoric exhibits and educational programs. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center connects modern conservation with ancient history.

While primarily focused on endangered species, the center’s Overlook area features dinosaur exhibits that explain the evolutionary connections between prehistoric creatures and today’s wildlife. The drive-through safari experience creates unforgettable memories for dinosaur and animal lovers alike.

12. Museum Of The Rockies – Bozeman, Montana

Home to one of the world’s largest collections of North American dinosaur fossils, this renowned museum showcases the groundbreaking work of paleontologist Jack Horner. The Museum of the Rockies houses an impressive T. rex hall featuring multiple specimens of this iconic predator.

The Siebel Dinosaur Complex walks visitors through the complete dinosaur lifecycle with real fossils and full skeletons. Kids especially love the hands-on “One Day as a Paleontologist” exhibit where they can experience fossil preparation.

13. Dinosaur Ridge – Morrison, Colorado

Walk in the footsteps of giants along a designated National Natural Landmark where hundreds of genuine dinosaur tracks and fossils remain embedded in ancient rock layers. Dinosaur Ridge offers both guided tours and self-exploration options.

Visitors can see actual Stegosaurus and Apatosaurus footprints, touch dinosaur bones still in the rock, and examine ripple marks from prehistoric beaches. The visitor center provides educational exhibits perfect for understanding the significance of this remarkable outdoor museum.

14. Creation Museum’s Dinosaur Exhibit – Petersburg, Kentucky

Lifelike animatronic dinosaurs blink, breathe, and move their heads as visitors explore exhibits presenting these creatures from a biblical perspective. The Creation Museum offers a unique take on dinosaurs that differs from conventional natural history museums.

Elaborate dioramas show humans and dinosaurs coexisting in garden-like settings. Regardless of your viewpoint, the technical artistry of the displays and the museum’s planetarium, botanical gardens, and petting zoo provide an entertaining family experience.

15. Cabazon Dinosaurs – Cabazon, California

Rising dramatically from the desert landscape, these massive roadside sculptures have become pop culture icons after appearing in numerous films and music videos. The Cabazon Dinosaurs feature “Dinny” the 150-foot Apatosaurus and “Mr. Rex” the 65-foot Tyrannosaurus.

For a small fee, families can climb inside Mr. Rex’s head for desert views or explore the dinosaur park with additional sculptures. These kitschy attractions provide perfect road trip breaks while traveling between Los Angeles and Palm Springs.

16. Children’s Museum Of Indianapolis – Indianapolis, Indiana

Five stories of interactive exhibits include the spectacular “Dinosphere,” where complete fossil skeletons are dramatically displayed amid realistic prehistoric environments. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis houses one of the largest youth-focused dinosaur exhibits in North America.

Kids can watch real paleontologists prepare fossils in the lab, participate in simulated digs, or touch actual dinosaur bones. The sound effects and atmospheric lighting create an immersive experience that brings these ancient creatures convincingly to life.

17. Wyoming Dinosaur Center – Thermopolis, Wyoming

Rare fossils from around the world fill this world-class museum where visitors can actually participate in real dinosaur excavations during summer months. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center sits near active dig sites containing countless dinosaur remains.

The “Dig for a Day” program lets families work alongside paleontologists, potentially uncovering fossils that have remained hidden for millions of years. Inside, the museum displays over 30 mounted skeletons, including the only Archaeopteryx specimen in North America.

18. Dinosaur Journey Museum – Fruita, Colorado

Robotic dinosaurs roar and move throughout this hands-on museum where earthquake simulators and fossil prep labs create an interactive paleontological playground. Dinosaur Journey Museum specializes in fossils from Colorado’s western slope.

Kids love the dinosaur sandbox where they can make footprints like those found in the wild. The museum’s reasonable size makes it perfect for families with young children, while the scientific depth keeps adults equally engaged in learning about these fascinating prehistoric creatures.

19. Dino Don Animatronic Dinosaurs – Traveling Exhibit

Incredibly lifelike robotic dinosaurs blink, breathe, and move with startling realism as this renowned traveling exhibit brings prehistoric creatures to zoos and museums nationwide. Created by paleontologist Don Lessem (advisor to Jurassic Park), these scientifically accurate animatronics represent the cutting edge of dinosaur robotics.

The creatures range from baby dinosaurs to full-sized adults that react to visitors with movements and sounds. Check the official website to see when these incredible creations might be stomping into your local area.

20. Dinosaur World – Plant City, Florida

Palm trees and tropical plants surround more than 150 life-sized dinosaur models, creating a prehistoric jungle experience perfect for Florida’s warm climate. Dinosaur World offers several hands-on activities beyond the main walking trail.

Young paleontologists can participate in fossil digs, gem excavations, and skeleton uncovering activities. The museum section provides air-conditioned relief on hot days, while the walking paths offer plenty of shade and dinosaur photo opportunities throughout the year.

21. Jurassic Forest – Gibbons, Alberta, Canada

Animatronic dinosaurs lurk among towering spruce trees, creating startling moments of discovery as families explore over 40 acres of prehistoric woodland trails. Jurassic Forest combines outdoor adventure with educational opportunities.

Motion sensors trigger the dinosaurs to move and roar as visitors approach, creating memorable surprises along the pathways. The playground, fossil dig sites, and interactive learning stations keep children engaged while adults appreciate the beautiful natural setting just minutes from Edmonton.

22. The Dinosaur Park – Ogden, Utah

Realistic dinosaur sculptures create perfect photo opportunities along this outdoor walking trail where each prehistoric creature is accompanied by educational signage about its habits and habitat. The Dinosaur Park features over 100 dinosaurs representing species from various geological periods.

The park’s playground, picnic areas, and fossil dig make it ideal for extended family visits. Young paleontologists particularly enjoy the working fossil lab where they can watch technicians prepare real specimens discovered in Utah’s fossil-rich landscape.

23. Smithsonian National Museum Of Natural History – Washington, D.C.

Completely renovated in 2019, the spectacular fossil hall features the Nation’s T. rex in a dynamic pose, attacking a Triceratops in a scientifically accurate prehistoric tableau. The Smithsonian’s “Deep Time” exhibit takes visitors on a 3.7-billion-year journey through Earth’s history.

Interactive touchscreens, fossil preparation labs, and augmented reality stations complement the impressive dinosaur skeletons. Best of all, like all Smithsonian museums, admission is completely free, making this world-class exhibit accessible to everyone.

24. La Brea Tar Pits And Museum – Los Angeles, California

Active excavation sites bubble with natural asphalt where paleontologists continue to unearth Ice Age fossils in the heart of Los Angeles. The La Brea Tar Pits showcase creatures that roamed Southern California during the Pleistocene Epoch.

While focusing more on mammoths and saber-toothed cats than dinosaurs, the site provides a fascinating window into prehistoric life. The museum’s fossil lab, 3D theater, and life-sized replicas create an engaging experience for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.

25. Dinosaur State Park – Rocky Hill, Connecticut

Protected under a geodesic dome, hundreds of genuine dinosaur footprints create one of the largest dinosaur track sites open to the public in North America. Dinosaur State Park preserves tracks made 200 million years ago by early Jurassic dinosaurs.

The interpretive center features life-sized dioramas and interactive exhibits explaining Connecticut’s prehistoric past. Outside, nature trails wind through an arboretum planted with living descendants of ancient plant species that dinosaurs would have encountered.

26. Great Plains Dinosaur Museum – Malta, Montana

Remarkable fossils from Montana’s fossil-rich landscapes include “Leonardo,” the best-preserved dinosaur mummy ever found, with actual skin impressions visible to visitors. The Great Plains Dinosaur Museum showcases specimens discovered in the nearby Judith River Formation.

Summer visitors can join actual paleontological digs through the museum’s field program. The museum’s intimate size allows for personal attention from knowledgeable staff who share fascinating stories about each fossil’s discovery and scientific significance.

27. Academy Of Natural Sciences – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

America’s oldest natural history museum houses a beloved dinosaur hall where visitors can touch real fossils and watch paleontologists prepare new specimens in the working lab. The Academy of Natural Sciences pioneered dinosaur displays in North America.

Today’s exhibits combine historic mounted skeletons with modern interactive elements. Kids particularly enjoy the “Big Dig” where they can uncover realistic fossil casts in a simulated excavation site. The museum’s central Philadelphia location makes it easily accessible for families exploring the city.

28. Dinosaurs Alive! – King’s Island, Ohio

Towering animatronic dinosaurs move and roar along woodland paths, creating an immersive prehistoric experience within this popular amusement park. Dinosaurs Alive! at King’s Island offers a peaceful break from thrill rides.

The walking trail features over 65 life-sized dinosaurs in natural settings, including several interactive models controlled by visitors. Educational signs explain each creature’s characteristics while fossil dig sites and a paleontological playground provide hands-on fun for younger dinosaur enthusiasts.

29. Tellus Science Museum – Cartersville, Georgia

Full-sized dinosaur skeletons tower over visitors in the fossil gallery where touchable specimens and interactive displays bring prehistoric science to life. The Tellus Science Museum’s fossil gallery walks visitors through Earth’s history with specimens from each major time period.

Kids love the fossil dig area where they can uncover replica bones in a simulated excavation site. The museum’s planetarium and gem mining experience provide additional scientific adventures to complement your dinosaur explorations.

30. Dinosaur Discovery Museum – Kenosha, Wisconsin

Focusing exclusively on meat-eating theropod dinosaurs, this unique museum highlights the evolutionary connection between prehistoric predators and modern birds. The Dinosaur Discovery Museum houses the largest collection of theropod dinosaur replicas in the United States.

The main hall dramatically displays these fearsome creatures in evolutionary sequence. Downstairs, visitors can watch paleontologists from the Carthage Institute of Paleontology working on actual dinosaur fossils in the laboratory viewing area.