If you’re planning a trip to Alberta’s Dinosaur Capital, there’s one place that promises both fun and education for the whole family: the Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre in Drumheller. This interactive dinosaur museum is a hidden gem that offers hands-on activities, real fossils, and life-sized animatronic dinosaurs that will leave both kids and adults in awe.
Unlike traditional museums that ask you to look but not touch, Fossil World invites you to dig, explore, cast, mine, and interact with exhibits. It’s a place where science becomes play and prehistoric times come alive in vivid detail. Whether you’re a parent planning a fun family day, a teacher looking for an engaging field trip, or simply a dinosaur enthusiast, this museum is designed to spark wonder and excitement.
A Dinosaur Museum That Makes Learning Fun
The Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre is more than a museum—it’s an immersive learning environment that blends entertainment with education. The space is built with young families in mind, offering a child-friendly setting where kids are encouraged to touch, explore, and ask questions.
The museum houses over 200 real fossils, many of which are displayed in ways that encourage interaction and discovery. These fossils include dinosaur bones, claws, teeth, fish fossils, and more—each accompanied by information panels that simplify scientific facts into digestible bites for children and adults alike.
In addition to fossils, the museum features lifelike animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar, creating an exciting atmosphere that transports visitors back to the age of the dinosaurs. For younger children, these dinosaurs are a source of fascination, often inspiring further interest in paleontology and science.
You won’t find long rows of untouched displays here. Instead, expect vibrant, hands-on exhibits designed to ignite curiosity. Staff members are friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to answer questions, making the experience even more interactive and memorable.
Interactive Activities That Bring Science to Life
One of the standout features of the Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre is its array of interactive activities, each designed to make paleontology accessible and enjoyable. Instead of simply observing history, visitors are invited to become part of it.
Fossil Dig Experience
Perhaps the most popular activity is the fossil dig zone, where children (and adults) can uncover replica fossils buried beneath the sand. Equipped with brushes and tools, kids can experience what it’s like to be a real paleontologist, brushing away debris to reveal “hidden treasures.” This activity teaches patience, observation, and the excitement of scientific discovery—all in a fun and safe environment.
Fossil Casting
In the fossil casting station, visitors can create their own take-home fossil replicas. Using molds and plaster, kids can make casts of dinosaur teeth, claws, ammonites, and other prehistoric items. This hands-on process is both artistic and educational, offering insight into how fossils are formed and preserved over time.
Gemstone Mining
Another favorite is gemstone mining, where kids can sift through a sluice to uncover colorful gemstones, crystals, and fossils. It’s part science, part treasure hunt—and everyone gets to take home the gems they find. It’s an excellent way to teach geology in a way that feels more like play than a lesson.
These activities are not just extras—they are central to the museum’s mission to make science fun and approachable for kids. Every station is designed to support tactile learning, critical thinking, and genuine excitement for natural history.
Plan Your Visit: Location, Hours, and Admission
The Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre is located at:
1381 North Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, Alberta
This prime location places it just a few minutes from other key Drumheller attractions, such as the Royal Tyrrell Museum, the World’s Largest Dinosaur, and the Drumheller Hoodoos.
Operating Hours
The Centre is seasonally open, usually from spring through early fall (April to October). During the summer months (especially July and August), it’s best to visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get the best experience. Always check the official website or Google listing for updated hours before your trip.
Admission Fees
Entry fees are budget-friendly and vary depending on age. Family packages are available and provide excellent value, especially if you’re planning to participate in the special activities like fossil casting and gemstone mining.
- Children under 3: Free
- Children (3–12): Approx. $9–$12
- Adults: Approx. $12–$15
- Family Pass: Approx. $40–$50
Note: Activities like fossil casting and gemstone mining may require an additional small fee.
What Makes Fossil World a Must-Visit in Drumheller?
With so many things to do in Drumheller, you might be wondering what sets the Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre apart. Here’s why it should be at the top of your list:
Designed for Families
While the Royal Tyrrell Museum is exceptional for fossil displays and academic exhibits, Fossil World is tailored for younger children and families. It offers smaller crowds, a more relaxed pace, and plenty of hands-on fun, making it ideal for kids ages 3 to 12.
Unique Hands-On Activities
Most museums don’t let you touch the exhibits—Fossil World invites you to dig, pan, cast, and interact. This tactile learning helps children understand science in a real-world context, making the experience both fun and educational.
A Full Dinosaur Experience
Where else can you dig up fossils, mine for gems, make your own dinosaur tooth, and then stand next to a roaring animatronic T-Rex? Fossil World offers all this under one roof, giving visitors a complete, immersive prehistoric experience.
Nearby Attractions to Add to Your Trip
Make your visit to Fossil World part of a bigger adventure by exploring some of Drumheller’s best attractions located nearby:
Royal Tyrrell Museum
A world-renowned paleontology museum just 10 minutes away, featuring over 130,000 fossils, interactive labs, and a huge collection of full dinosaur skeletons.
World’s Largest Dinosaur
Climb inside this 26-meter-high T-Rex statue in downtown Drumheller for panoramic views of the city and surrounding Badlands.
Hoodoo Trail
Explore the unique rock formations known as hoodoos—towering stone pillars formed by erosion. It’s a short drive from Fossil World and great for scenic photos and short hikes.
Star Mine Suspension Bridge
Take a walk across this historic bridge and learn about Drumheller’s coal-mining past while enjoying views of the Red Deer River.
Final Thoughts: A Fun, Educational Day for Everyone
The Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre is a fantastic destination that proves science doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. It’s an ideal location for families with children, school field trips, or tourists wanting an engaging and memorable stop on their Drumheller itinerary.
With its blend of authentic fossils, life-sized dinosaurs, and hands-on activities, the centre provides a dynamic learning experience that kids will remember long after they leave. It’s fun, affordable, and full of prehistoric surprises—everything a great family adventure should be.
So, the next time you find yourself in Alberta’s Badlands, don’t miss your chance to step back in time at Fossil World. You’ll leave with not just souvenirs, but a deeper appreciation for the creatures that once ruled the Earth.