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The best places to visit all around the U.S. plus ways to learn about paleontology right at home!
Are your kids crazy about dinosaurs? Are they always roaring with excitement at the idea of learning more about these prehistoric creatures?
Well, you're in luck! There are plenty of places in the U.S. where your little paleontologists-in-training can get up close and personal with fossils, bones, and exhibits dedicated to dinosaurs. Here are some of the best places to stomp, chomp, and learn about dinos:
Jurassic Quest: If you're looking for a larger-than-life dino experience, Jurassic Quest is the place to be. This traveling dinosaur exhibit is like a prehistoric theme park, with animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar, dino-themed rides, and interactive exhibits. Your kids will feel like they've traveled back in time to the Jurassic era.
Dinosaur National Monument: This national park spans across Colorado and Utah and is home to some of the best-preserved dinosaur fossils in the world. Your kids can see full dinosaur skeletons and learn about the creatures that roamed this area millions of years ago. Plus, the park has plenty of hiking trails and outdoor activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Museum of the Rockies: Located in Bozeman, Montana, the Museum of the Rockies has one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world. Your kids can see the famous T. rex skeleton, "Big Mike," and learn about the dinosaur species that once lived in Montana. The museum also has hands-on exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.
American Museum of Natural History: Located in New York City, the American Museum of Natural History is one of the most famous museums in the world. It has a massive dinosaur exhibit with full-scale models of T. rex and other species, as well as interactive exhibits that let kids explore dinosaur habitats and learn about their behaviors.
Field Museum: Located in Chicago, the Field Museum has an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils and exhibits that showcase the diversity of these prehistoric creatures. Your kids can learn about the evolution of dinosaurs and see how scientists piece together clues from fossils to understand their behavior.
Burke Museum: Located in Seattle, the Burke Museum has an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils and interactive exhibits that teach kids about paleontology and the natural history of the Pacific Northwest. The museum also hosts events and activities that allow kids to participate in hands-on learning experiences.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: Located in Washington D.C., the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a must-visit for any dino-loving family. The museum has one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, including a full-size T. rex skeleton. Kids can also explore interactive exhibits that teach them about the different periods of Earth's history and the creatures that lived during those times.
These are just a few of the best places in the U.S. for kids to learn about dinosaurs. With so many exciting exhibits and activities to choose from, your little dino lovers are sure to have a roaring good time.
Gear up and get ready for your dino adventure with my Dinosaur books suggestions in my Amazon Storefront.
Learning about dinosaurs doesn't have to be limited to museums and exhibits though. There are plenty of ways to explore the prehistoric world right from the comfort of your own home. Here are some fun and educational activities for kids who are dinosaur enthusiasts:
1. Virtual Tours: Many museums and exhibits now offer virtual tours that allow visitors to explore their dinosaur collections from home. Check out the virtual tour options on museum websites, and let your kids take a guided tour through exhibits and see dinosaur fossils up close.
2. Dino-Dig: Create your own dinosaur dig site in your backyard or a nearby park. You can bury toy dinosaurs and have your kids dig them up using small shovels and brushes. It's a fun and interactive way to learn about the process of excavation and the different parts of a dinosaur skeleton.
3. Arts and Crafts: Get creative with dinosaur-themed arts and crafts. You can make your own dinosaur fossils using salt dough or clay, create dinosaur-themed paintings or drawings, or even make your own dinosaur costumes. Grab my recipe cards freebie to easily make up some salt dough or other dino themed sensory bin:
4. Dino-Books and Documentaries: There are plenty of books and documentaries available that are focused on dinosaurs. Reading books or watching documentaries with your kids can be a great way to learn about different dinosaur species and their behaviors.
5. Science Kits: Many companies offer science kits that allow kids to conduct their own dinosaur-themed experiments. These kits often include activities like making your own dinosaur slime, hatching your own dinosaur egg, or creating a volcanic eruption simulation. You can also create many of these experiences on your own using everyday materials you already have. Check out my Dinosaur activity pages, filled with instructions on making fizzy dino eggs, dino mud tracks and more:
Learning about dinosaurs at home can be just as fun and educational as visiting a museum. It's a great way to keep your little ones engaged and interested in the prehistoric world, and who knows, you might just inspire the next great paleontologist!
