Johann Hunt
Planning a getaway with fewer crowds and way more claws? These dino-drenched spots serve up fossils, animatronics, and the occasional T. rex roar. Itâs part theme park, part time warpâand way more fun than your average selfie stop. Ready to stomp through the past like itâs no big deal?
Dinosaur World (Cave City, Kentucky)
Dinosaur World in Cave City brings prehistoric giants to life with over 150 full-sized dinosaur sculptures along a wooded trail. Kids get to dig up real fossils and keep them. You can even bring your dog along, even into the museum itself. After exploring, swing by the oversized gift shop, where shelves brim with dino-themed books, games, and souvenirs.
Dinosaurs (Leonia, New Jersey)
Located just under 10 minutes from New York City, this scenic park features over 30 lifelike animatronic dinosaurs. Visitors are invited to join fossil digs and watch live science shows. The park also offers a popular âDinosaur Dayâ sleepover, complete with games and storytelling for an overnight adventure thatâs both fun and educational.
Dinosaur Park (Ogden, Utah)
Plan a visit to Ogdenâs Dinosaur Park to explore more than 100 life-sized dinosaurs with sound and movement. A massive sandpit lets young explorers dig for fossils, while the indoor museum features skeletons and real fossils. For a special treat, visit during âDinoglow Nightsââa Halloween event with glowing lights and after-dark fun.
Prehistoric Gardens (Port Orford, Oregon)
Located near Port Orford, Prehistoric Gardens features more than 20 life-sized dinosaur models set in a rainforest environment. Built in 1955, it ranks among the oldest dinosaur parks in the United States. The sculptures, shaped by 1950s science, now stand beside rare coastal plantsâtogether capturing the eraâs unique blend of imagination and ecology.
The Dinosaur Place (Oakdale, Connecticut)
The Dinosaur Place in Oakdale is packed with prehistoric fun. A 1.5-mile trail winds through the woods with over 60 life-sized dinosaurs waiting around every corner. Kids can even cool off at Dino-Splash, the largest dinosaur-themed splash pad in New England. Thereâs also T-Rex Tower, a dinosaur maze, and mini-golf all in one spot.
Dinosaur Ridge (Morrison, Colorado)
Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison is home to real dinosaur footprints embedded in rock. The trail features over 300 tracks from the Cretaceous and Jurassic periods, making it a thrilling experience. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own, while the Discovery Center delivers hands-on activities focused on geology.
Cabazon Dinosaurs (Cabazon, California)
Visit Cabazon Dinosaurs to experience two giant sculptures, including one thatâs 150 feet long. The park features an interactive dinosaur museum and a fossil dig. Itâs perfect for learning and fun, with seasonal events like âDino Halloweenâ adding extra excitement to your trip. Add it to your road trip list if youâre into offbeat attractions with big photo ops.
Dino Don’s Dinosaur Safari (Bronx Zoo, New York)
If you’re looking for an exciting dinosaur adventure, Dino Don’s Dinosaur Safari at the Bronx Zoo is the place to be! With over 50 animatronic dinosaurs, some reaching 40 feet tall and 60 feet long, itâs a true dino lover’s dream. Created by âJurassic Parkâ consultant Don Lessem, this exhibit is full of movement and fun educational content.
Laurel Dinosaur Park (Laurel, Maryland)
At Laurel Dinosaur Park, youâre standing on a historic fossil site where Astrodon fossils were first discovered. You can even try digging for fossils yourself on select days, with real dinosaur bones found by previous visitors. The interpretive center also offers a hands-on look at every local fossil discovery.
Jurassic Quest (Nationwide Touring Exhibit)
Jurassic Quest is the largest traveling dinosaur event in North America. Over 80 animatronic dinosaurs move and roar, creating a lifelike prehistoric experience. Children can ride dinosaur-themed scooters, jump through bounce houses, and visit fossil stations where paleontologists help them identify real ancient specimens.