We’ve frolicked through the dinosaur wing at the American Museum of Natural History so many times that we practically have a photographic memory of the place–including the recently unveiled 150-million-year-old Stegosaurus skeleton–so we were certainly excited to hear that a brand new world-class museum is opening this March that opens a window to the final days of the dinosaur era, and it’s not too far from NYC!
Led by renowned paleontologist Dr. Kenneth Lacovara–who has unearthed some of the largest dinosaurs ever to walk the earth, including the massive 65-ton Dreadnoughtus–the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum will serve as a premier hub for education, adventure, and discovery. Named one of the most anticipated museums, the museum will give visitors a rare opportunity to explore real fossil beds and connect with Earth’s ancient past.
Across 44,000 square feet and 123 acres–four of which are a fossil-rich quarry–visitors will step back in time 66 million years ago to unearth a prehistoric world like never before! Alongside exhibits, the world-class institution will include the following:
- Dinosaur Coast Gallery: An interactive environment depicting the authentic lives of East Coast dinosaurs from 66 million years ago
- Monstrous Seas Gallery: An immersive underwater journey through the primitive depths of the Cretaceous ocean, featuring a massive 55-foot mosasaur
- Hall of Extinction & Hope: An exhibit that explores the catastrophic moment an asteroid impact ended the reign of the dinosaurs
- Discovery Forest: A nature-themed adventure that explores the Earth’s history and evolution
- Critter Cove: An opportunity to meet the modern-day relatives of your favorite Cretaceous creatures
- Virtual Reality: A free-roam VR journey that follows an Expedition Voyager mission to collect scientific samples and come face-to-face with dinosaurs and Cretaceous creatures
Beyond the above, the museum will also be home to the Quarry Grounds Cafe, Darwin & Co. Retail Store, Outdoor Nature Trails, Cretaceous Gardens, a dinosaur-themed playground, and much more! EFM’s quarry dig experience, the mega-popular attraction that inspired the creation of the museum itself, will also be open seasonally from May to October. Here, guests can dig for real fossils and unearth clues to the ancient past.
Dr. Kenneth Lacovara, founding executive director of the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, stated:
Our goal with the museum is to bring back that childlike sense of wonder and help people feel a deeper connection to the incredible history of our planet. We’ve preserved millions of years of history in stunning detail, with each fossil telling its own unique story. We want visitors to feel like they’re stepping into the world of dinosaurs and walk away feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to make a difference for the future.
Tickets start at $29 for adults and $24 for children aged 3-12. Admission is free for kids aged 2 and under, and additional benefits are also available for members. Learn more on EFM’s website.
📍 66 Million Mosasaur Way, Mantua, NJ 08080
🗓 Opens March 29th, 2025