Dinosaur Explorer

Event Information

•  Date & Time: Thursday-Monday, May 25-Sept. 2, 2024, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Members get early entry beginning at 8 a.m.
•  Location: Origen Museum
•  Admission: FREE for members or with paid general admission
•  RSVP: No reservations required.

Dinosaurs—they’re just like us: quirky, cool, and completely unique!

Dinosaur Explorer is an all-new traveling exhibition that explores the wildest, wackiest, and most wonderous dinosaurs, and examines human physiology through the lens of these magnificent creatures. Although they lived millions of years before us, dinosaurs—just like us—adapted to not only survive, but to thrive on planet earth. As such, paleontologists believe that dinosaurs shared many things in common with humankind, and, as astounding as it may seem, lived daily lives that may be quite familiar. Whether it be feeding or family dynamics, intelligence or interpersonal relationships, Dinosaur Explorer examines the ways that environmental, biological, and behavioral circumstances influenced dinosaur daily life, and asks: where do we see similarities in our world today?

Through a series of dynamic displays that feature advanced animatronic dinosaurs, authentic casts, and highly interactive hands-on activities, you will learn the science behind dinosaur adaptations and understand the connections humans share with our prehistoric predecessors. As you move through a series of vibrant vignettes, you will discover what modern paleontology knows about the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods—as well as what remains uncertain. You will be challenged to imagine how through small changes—such as tooth form or brain sizes—paleontologists have completely altered the world’s understanding of these incredible creatures’ success. And just like a scientist, you will be empowered to hypothesize about prehistoric life by piecing together paleontological and biological clues.

This exhibition utilizes the latest animatronic technology and features the most current dinosaur science, courtesy of content partner Dr. Gregory M. Erickson (one of only 150 full-time professional dinosaur paleontologists in the world). With Dinosaur Explorer, Imagine Exhibitions and the Springs Preserve invite you on an unforgettable adventure to explore the world through new eyes, compare yourself to the strangest and silliest dinosaurs, and create a whole new understanding of the most fascinating living organisms in known history. And, who knows—maybe ancient history won’t feel so far away.