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Uncover fossils and learn from paleontologists at the Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum's Bonebed Tour. A truly immersive prehistoric adventure for all ages awaits.
Uncover fossils and learn from paleontologists at the Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum's Bonebed Tour. A truly immersive prehistoric adventure for all ages awaits.
Book with Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum
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Operated by Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum · Wembley, Alberta
Located in the heart of Canada’s fossil-rich region, the Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum offers an immersive glimpse into prehistoric life. The Bonebed Tour: Palaeo Palooza is a weekend event that transforms ordinary visits into a hands-on expedition into the deep past. Visitors hop aboard the Dino Bus, a specially equipped vehicle that transports them directly to the impressive Pipestone Creek Bonebed, renowned for its extraordinary collection of dinosaur fossils. Here, the real magic begins: a dedicated team of paleontologists guides guests through active excavation sites, unveiling the bones of prehistoric giants such as Pachyrhinosaurus, including the famed Big Sam skull. This site is not just a display; it’s a working laboratory where history is unearthed, and stories are told through remarkable fossil discoveries. The experience is designed to engage all ages, making it perfect for families eager to connect with the ancient world. The site itself features outstanding geological formations of sedimentary rock, which have preserved thousands of fossils over millions of years. Amidst the rugged landscape of northern Alberta, the Bonebed offers a rare chance to witness the tangible remnants of creatures that roamed the Earth during the Cretaceous period. The museum complements the excavation with detailed exhibits, providing context about the area's rich paleontological history, which dates back to the late Cretaceous—more than 70 million years ago. Visitors will gain appreciation for ongoing conservation efforts that protect this fossil hotspot for future generations and scientific study. This tour is an unmatched opportunity to see history in the making and learn from experts dedicated to preserving and understanding our planet’s ancient past.
moderate.
3-4 hours.
Participants should be in moderate physical condition, comfortable walking and standing for periods.
Yes, children are welcome and supervised during fossil digs and activities.
No, all expertise is provided on-site, making it suitable for beginners.
Typically 3 to 4 hours, including travel and excavation time.
Most activities happen outdoors at the excavation site, with museum visits indoors.
Yes, advance booking is recommended to secure your spot.
Yes, though weather conditions vary; dress accordingly.
The Pipestone Creek Bonebed has been a focus of paleontological research since the early 2000s, revealing one of the most significant Late Cretaceous dinosaur assemblages in North America.
The site is protected to ensure fossils are preserved responsibly, supporting ongoing scientific discovery.
Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum in Wembley, Alberta is a regional centre for palaeontology and public education. The museum preserves and interprets local fossil heritage and operates research-led public programs that connect families, students and researchers to Alberta’s deep past. Exhibits highlight mounted skeletons, interactive displays and rotating collections that showcase discoveries from the Pipestone Creek bonebed and the Wapiti Formation. The museum runs guided field experiences and seasonal events led by trained palaeo-professionals, including the Pipestone Creek excavation visits, “Palaeontologist for a Day” digs, and the Bonebed Tour featuring the Pachyrhinosaurus skull known as BIG SAM. River-based outings such as the “Secrets of the Wapiti” float focus on regional geology, fossils and safe outdoor interpretation. Family-focused programs include Night at the Museum sleepovers, birthday parties with gallery access, Nesting Grounds early childhood sessions, and School’s Out PD Camps for ages 5–13. Educational offerings extend to Homeschool Days and annual Science Festivals like Palaeo Palooza, providing hands-on activities, maker spaces, and film screenings. Admission options include full-day General Admission tickets with no re-entry. The museum partners with researchers, community groups and volunteers to conduct fieldwork and curate findings, following accepted conservation and documentation standards. Accessibility, safety and evidence-based interpretation are priorities. Visitors can expect guided learning, tangible fossil encounters, and professionally run events that support palaeontology, local heritage tourism and science education. Curatorial staff maintain research-grade collections, publish findings in peer-reviewed outlets when appropriate, and collaborate with universities to ensure scientific rigour and long-term preservation of specimens for future generations.
Book with Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum