Explore Colorado's dinosaur history with expert guides and fossil exhibits just minutes from Denver. Enjoy a free audio tour for a memorable adventure into paleontology.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mainly walking indoors with short periods standing.
Wildlife
History
The museum showcases fossils from the Jurassic period, discovered in nearby Morrison quarries that have contributed greatly to paleontology.
Conservation
The museum promotes sustainable practices in its operations and educates visitors on protecting Colorado's natural heritage.
Morrison Natural History Museum
Explore Colorado's dinosaur history with expert guides and fossil exhibits just minutes from Denver. Enjoy a free audio tour for a memorable adventure into paleontology.
Morrison Natural History Museum, located in Morrison, Colorado, preserves and interprets local and regional paleontology through exhibits, public programs, and field research. The museum offers general admission access to fossil exhibits and ongoing research displays, with expert guides leading visitors through curated specimens and explaining the scientific context.
General admission includes a complimentary audio tour that guides guests through highlights and research stories, and the museum is approximately 25 minutes from downtown Denver, making it accessible for day visitors. Beyond the museum floor, the institution supports hands‑on fieldwork opportunities. One notable program is the Triceratops Gulch Project, a three‑day fossil expedition based in Wyoming that invites participants to engage in active excavation, learn field techniques, and contribute to real paleontological research under professional supervision.
The project emphasizes safety, practical skills, and scientific methods used in digging and documenting fossil finds. The museum collaborates with trained staff and volunteers to maintain exhibits and to run educational programs aimed at a wide audience, from casual visitors to aspiring paleontologists. Programming focuses on clear, evidence-based interpretation of fossils and the processes that preserve them, ensuring visitors encounter accurate scientific information. Accessibility from Denver and the combination of museum exhibits with active field projects make the Morrison Natural History Museum a practical option for visitors seeking both educational exhibits and immersive fossil dig experiences. Educational resources include interpretive signage, specimen labels, and rotating displays that reflect ongoing discoveries and research collaborations. Programs welcome families, students, and adult learners of all experience levels regularly.
Location
Morrison, CO
About 25 minutes from Denver
Triceratops Project
3 days
Hands-on fossil expedition in Wyoming
Guided Tours
Expert Guides
Leads through exhibits and research
Audio Tour
Complimentary
Included with general admission
Reserve general admission for museum exhibits and the complimentary audio tour, or apply for the Triceratops Gulch Project three-day fossil expedition in Wyoming—details and tickets available online.
Book Tickets in Advance
Reserve your general admission tickets online to ensure entry, especially during weekends and holidays.
Arrive Early to Avoid Crowds
Plan to visit during morning hours for a quieter experience and better access to guided tours.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The museum has multiple exhibits spread out, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Use the Complimentary Audio Tour
Make sure to pick up or download the audio guide to maximize your understanding of the exhibits.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for walking through the multiple indoor exhibit areas comfortably.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Useful during cooler spring days and air-conditioned museum spaces.
spring
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while exploring, especially if combining your visit with nearby outdoor activities.
Smartphone or Audio Device
Necessary to enjoy the complimentary audio tour available for enhanced storytelling.