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.
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.
Book with Morrison Natural History Museum
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Morrison Natural History Museum · Morrison, Colorado
Step into the fascinating world of dinosaurs and paleontology at the Morrison Natural History Museum in Colorado. Located just 25 minutes from Denver, this museum offers an immersive experience that highlights Colorado's prehistoric past through expertly curated fossil exhibits and ongoing scientific research. Guided by knowledgeable experts, visitors get a deeper appreciation of the ancient creatures that once roamed the region and the groundbreaking discoveries made at nearby excavation sites. Included with general admission is a complimentary audio tour, allowing you to explore at your own pace, soaking in captivating stories and intriguing facts about the fossils on display. This family-friendly outing is perfect for anyone interested in natural history, science, or simply seeking an educational adventure close to a major city. With interactive displays and a variety of specimens, it's an engaging way to spend a few hours away from the usual outdoor hikes and mountain activities Colorado is known for. Whether you're a local looking for a unique day trip or a traveler wanting to explore outside Denver’s urban limits, the Morrison Natural History Museum offers a rewarding and memorable experience.
easy.
1–2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; mainly walking indoors with short periods standing.
Yes, the museum offers exhibits and programs that appeal to visitors of all ages, including children.
Guided tours are offered at specific times, but the general admission includes a free audio tour for self-guided exploration.
Most guests spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits and audio content.
Yes, there is free parking available onsite for visitors.
Pets are not permitted inside the museum, except for service animals.
Yes, the museum has a gift shop featuring books, educational items, and local gifts.
The museum showcases fossils from the Jurassic period, discovered in nearby Morrison quarries that have contributed greatly to paleontology.
The museum promotes sustainable practices in its operations and educates visitors on protecting Colorado's natural heritage.
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.
Book with Morrison Natural History Museum