The Royal Tyrrell Museum is a world-famous gem that caters to the curiosity of young and old alike. Whether you’re a child fascinated by the age of dinosaurs, a parent looking to educate and entertain, or a couple in search of an extraordinary date destination, this museum has something for everyone. Must-see exhibits include Dinosaur Hall, home to one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaur skeletons, including the iconic T. Rex. The Cretaceous Garden, which is an exhibit showcasing plant species from the Cretaceous period. Fossils in Focus features some of the museum’s most remarkable and scientifically significant fossils, and the Burgess Shale with its displays of fossils from one of the most important fossil sites.
Let’s dive into why this museum should be your next adventure and uncover 10 surprising facts you might not know about this paleontological paradise.
Why You Should Visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum
- For Kids: Imagine the look on your child’s face as they stand next to a towering T. rex skeleton. The Royal Tyrrell Museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that make learning about dinosaurs a thrilling journey through time.
- For Adults: Step back into the prehistoric era and marvel at the scientific wonders displayed. From intricate fossil displays to detailed reconstructions, the museum provides an enriching experience that’s both educational and riveting.
- For Families: Perfect for a family outing, the museum offers activities that everyone can enjoy. Explore the galleries together, participate in fossil casting workshops, or take a scenic hike through the Badlands.
- For Date Night: Skip the usual dinner and movie routine and opt for an enchanting evening at the museum. Imagine discussing ancient life forms under the stars of the badlands sky – now that’s a date night to remember!
Top 10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Royal Tyrrell Museum
- Dinosaur Graveyard: The museum is built near one of the richest dinosaur fossil locales in the world.
- Fossil Prep Lab: Visitors can watch real paleontologists at work in the museum’s fossil preparation lab.
- Diverse Collection: Home to over 160,000 fossils, the collection spans 3.9 billion years of earth’s history.
- World Renowned Research: The museum is a leading institution in paleontological research and discovery.
- Interactive Exhibits: From a simulated dig site to digital exhibit interactives, the museum encourages hands-on learning.
- Badlands Interpretive Trail: Visitors can take a guided tour through the Badlands to see fossils in their natural setting.
- Changing Exhibits: With frequently rotating exhibits, there’s always something new to see.
- Educational Programs: Offers distance learning programs and educational resources for schools and groups.
- Fossil Casting: Guests can create their own fossil replica in unique casting workshops.
- Souvenir Shop: The museum’s gift shop features unique merchandise and replica fossils.
Exploring Drumheller
While the Royal Tyrrell Museum is the star attraction, Drumheller offers a treasure trove of activities to round out your visit. Take a stroll through the Hoodoos, unique rock formations that look like they belong on another planet. Visit the World’s Largest Dinosaur, a towering T. rex statue that you can climb for panoramic views of the town. For those who love a bit of history, the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site offers a glimpse into the area’s mining past.
Plan Your Adventure
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a unique date, or simply looking to indulge your curiosity about the prehistoric world, this museum offers an experience like no other.
Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
