Dinosaurs have always captivated the imagination of people, especially families. For an unforgettable family adventure into the world of dinosaurs, look no further than the National Dinosaur Museum Canberra.
With its extensive fossil collection and life-size dinosaur skeletons, this museum offers a remarkable and educational experience that will thrill both children and adults.
A Museum for All Ages
Located in Nicholls, the National Dinosaur Museum houses one of Australia’s largest and most diverse collections of dinosaur fossils. With over 200 dinosaur skeletons and fossils, including a permanent display of dinosaur eggs, the museum offers a journey through time that will fascinate both the young and the young at heart.
Its interactive exhibits and hands-on activities turn learning into a thrilling adventure for children of all ages. The Museum houses over 150 dinosaur models, 23 complete skeletons, and over 300 displays of individual fossils in its multi-level indoor gallery, as well as a garden space featuring a 20-metre animatronic T. rex.
The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs tailored to school groups, making it an excellent destination for a field trip that combines education and excitement.
Fossil Adventures
The museum’s fossil collection is a definite highlight for families. It showcases the history of life on Earth, from the Triassic period to the Ice Age. The fossils in its collection range from 700-million-year-old marine fauna through to fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals: many of which, as you may have realised, are not dinosaurs.
The museum’s collection provides a unique opportunity for children and parents alike to uncover the wonders of the ancient world. By weaving a chronological and easy-to-follow story of habitation, change, and extinction, the Museum’s goal is to foster a sense of environmental stewardship among its visitors, both great and small.
The Dinosaur Garden
National Dinosaur Museum features a landscaped dinosaur garden, complete with lifelike fibreglass models. Encounter Stan, Canberra’s larger-than-life T. rex who is 20 metres long (half the length of our building!) and towers above our entrance at a lofty six metres tall.
Opening Hours and Admission
The Museum is open everyday, from 10 am to 5pm. Admission costs are waived for children 3 years and younger. Included in admission prices is entry to the Dinosaur Garden, the Museum’s upper gallery, and the Interactive Area on the bottom level.
There is no admission fee for visitors who would only like to explore the gift shop and will not be entering the museum galleries.
Beyond the Museum Doors
The National Dinosaur Museum is just one of the many things to do in Canberra with kids. After an exciting day exploring the museum, families can continue their adventure by visiting nearby attractions such as the Cockington Green Gardens, Canberra Reptile Zoo or the Canberra Walk-in Aviary.
Canberra’s beautiful parks and gardens also provide the perfect setting for a picnic or outdoor exploration with the kids. With so much to see and do, Canberra guarantees an unforgettable family experience.
