
Wyoming Dinosaur Center
Explore world-class fossils and dig for real dinosaur bones at this renowned Wyoming museum.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Wyoming Dinosaur Center
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore world-class fossils and dig for real dinosaur bones at this renowned Wyoming museum.
"A world class museum with fossils, the actual fossils, that I have only seen in books since I was a kid."

🎯 Book Digs in Advance
Popular 'dig for a day' tours sell out quickly. Book your spot online to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, especially if you opt for a dig tour. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hall of Dinosaurs
Main Exhibition Hall
Marvel at jaw-dropping dinosaur skeletons, including a rare Camarasaurus and impressive Triceratops.

Dinosaur Dig Experience
Nearby Fossil Sites
Unearth real fossils on a guided dig tour, a hands-on adventure for all ages.

Early Life Fossils
Early Life Exhibit
Explore mesmerizing fossils from ancient marine life and early terrestrial creatures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Dig Adventure
Timing is Key for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Digs in Advance
Popular 'dig for a day' tours sell out quickly. Book your spot online to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, especially if you opt for a dig tour. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Skeletons
The museum is a photographer's dream with incredible specimens. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! The museum is packed with details, and digs require significant time. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Digs in Advance
Popular 'dig for a day' tours sell out quickly. Book your spot online to avoid disappointment!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, especially if you opt for a dig tour. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Skeletons
The museum is a photographer's dream with incredible specimens. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! The museum is packed with details, and digs require significant time. :stopwatch:
💰 Military Discounts Available
Active and veteran military personnel can receive discounted admission. :military_medal:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Wyoming Dinosaur Center as a 'true gem' and a 'world-class museum' with 'jaw-dropping specimens.' The hands-on dig tours are a major highlight, offering an unforgettable educational adventure. While some find the museum exhibits can be explored in about an hour, many recommend allowing more time for a thorough experience.
"A true gem of a place to visit. Stop along the road trip and check out the cool fossils and learn something new. There is a small food court and store if you want to check that out. They have military discounts and also have an option to visit the dig site. Regular adult ticket was $12."
Tony Goebel
"What a great discovery in this quaint little town! The fossils were plentiful and incredible. The dinosaurs and mammal skeletons were so interesting. We could've spent half a day here, but were on a schedule. Don't miss this place!"
Beth Lowe
"World class museum with fossils, the actual fossils, that I have only seen in books since I was a kid. Absolutely jaw dropping specimens spanning the history of life. The early life fossils are mesmerizing and build toward the enchanting hall of dinosaurs. This is a museum where paleo-nerds will totally geek out and everyone else will be amazed by the beauty of life on Earth."
Jim Lane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Wyoming Dinosaur Center is located in Thermopolis, Wyoming. It's accessible by car, with major highways leading to the town. Many visitors stop here as part of a larger road trip through Wyoming.
Yes, Thermopolis is a quaint town with accommodations available. It's a convenient stop for exploring the Dinosaur Center and nearby attractions like Legend Rock petroglyphs.
The museum is centrally located in Thermopolis. Use GPS or a mapping app for precise directions upon arrival in town. It's a well-known landmark.
Public transportation options directly to the museum are limited. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle, especially those on road trips.
If coming from Yellowstone National Park, you'll typically drive south. The route offers scenic views and is a popular addition to a Wyoming itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Regular adult admission is around $12, with discounts available for military personnel. Check the official website for the most current pricing and any special offers.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to participate in the 'dig for a day' experience, as these tours are very popular and can sell out.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Wyoming Dinosaur Center website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
The museum likely offers group rates for educational institutions or larger parties. Contact the museum directly for details on group bookings and pricing.
The center occasionally hosts special events like 'Jurassic Fest'. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements about events and potential discounts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Exploring the museum exhibits typically takes about an hour, but you could easily spend half a day if you read all the information or participate in a dig tour.
The 'dinosaur dig sites in Wyoming' tours offer a hands-on opportunity to excavate real fossils under the guidance of knowledgeable interns. It's a highly recommended scientific and educational adventure for families.
Yes, guided journeys through time are offered, providing insights into the fossil beds and full skeletons. The dig tours are also guided experiences.
Absolutely! It's a kid-friendly educational display with impressive specimens that captivate young imaginations. The dig tours are particularly engaging for children.
You'll see world-class specimens, from early life fossils like trilobites to magnificent dinosaur skeletons, including a rare Camarasaurus and a Triceratops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small food court and a gift shop on-site where you can purchase snacks and souvenirs.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check the museum's policy on outside food and beverages. Picnic areas might be available outside the main building.
Thermopolis offers various local eateries, from casual diners to restaurants, providing a taste of local Wyoming cuisine.
The museum has a food court, which is a convenient option for a quick bite while visiting. It's not a full-service restaurant.
Food court options can vary. It's best to inquire directly at the food court upon arrival for specific dietary choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the museum for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography that could damage delicate exhibits.
The impressive dinosaur skeletons, especially the rearing Camarasaurus and the Triceratops, make for fantastic photo opportunities. The early life fossil displays are also visually striking.
Photography during the dig tour is usually permitted, allowing you to capture your fossil-finding moments. Your guide can often assist with photos.
Tripods might be restricted in certain areas to avoid obstruction. Always check for posted signs or ask staff if you're unsure about specific rules.
You can find many Wyoming Dinosaur Center photos on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, as well as through general image searches.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Allow ample time for exploration, as the exhibits are rich with information. The museum also has a small food court for convenient snacks. Consider visiting on a weekday afternoon to potentially avoid larger school groups and ensure a more relaxed experience for your family.
🚗 Road Trippers
For those with more time, the dinosaur dig tours offer an unforgettable adventure. It's a chance to break up the journey with a truly hands-on paleontological experience. The museum also has a gift shop for souvenirs, making it a memorable stop on any cross-country adventure.
🤓 Paleontology Enthusiasts
Engage with the world-class specimens, from the early life fossils to the magnificent dinosaur skeletons. The knowledgeable staff and interns are often passionate about sharing their expertise, making for an enriching experience. Don't miss the chance to see a real Camarasaurus skeleton collected locally.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Dinosaur Dig
Participants have the chance to uncover real vertebrae from sauropods or other significant fossil fragments. This immersive activity is perfect for families and individuals seeking a scientific and educational adventure. Booking in advance is crucial, as these popular tours fill up quickly, especially during the summer months.
This isn't just a museum visit; it's an opportunity to become a part of paleontological discovery. The experience provides a tangible connection to the past, making it a highlight for many visitors and a truly memorable part of any trip to Wyoming.
World-Class Fossil Collections
Highlights include a real Camarasaurus skeleton collected just minutes from the museum, displayed in a dynamic rearing pose. You'll also find a magnificent Triceratops skeleton, a crowd favorite, and other significant dinosaur and mammal skeletons. The museum's commitment to showcasing actual fossils, rather than just casts, makes the experience incredibly authentic and educational.
Beyond the giants of the Jurassic, the museum features a diverse array of prehistoric life, including marine reptiles and ancient mammals. Each exhibit is meticulously curated to educate and inspire, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in natural history and the ancient world.
Visiting Thermopolis, Wyoming
While the Dinosaur Center is the main draw for many, Thermopolis also offers other points of interest. Legend Rock petroglyphs provide a glimpse into the area's ancient human history, and the hot springs themselves are a popular spot for relaxation and recreation. The town has a friendly, welcoming vibe, making it a pleasant stop on a road trip.
For travelers planning a visit, Thermopolis provides essential amenities like lodging and dining options. Its location makes it an accessible detour for those traveling through Wyoming, offering a unique blend of natural wonders and paleontological treasures.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit