Dinosaur Adventures at Morrison Natural History Museum, CO - Denver

Dinosaur Adventures at Morrison Natural History Museum, CO

Denvereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; light walking required outside.

Overview

Uncover Colorado’s ancient dinosaur past at Morrison Natural History Museum. Hands-on fossil experiences and live digs await just west of Denver.

Details

Situated in Morrison, Colorado, the Morrison Natural History Museum offers a unique gateway into the ancient past of North America’s dinosaur heritage. This small but compelling institution commands attention by focusing on fossils and prehistoric life specifically tied to the local landscape — creatures that once roamed the very soil beneath your feet. Situated just outside Denver, the museum connects visitors intimately with the story of dinosaurs and the geological forces that shaped the region.

The museum's offerings include the General Admission experience, which provides a well-curated journey through three distinct dinosaur eras, supplemented by hands-on fossil displays that invite visitors to touch authentic fossils — a rarity in museums. The Morrison Dino Pass deepens this experience with special access opportunities and behind-the-scenes insights into ongoing paleontological projects. The Triceratops Gulch Project stands out as a hands-on excavation site where trained volunteers and visitors collaborate with staff to recover fossils, uncovering remains that have lain undiscovered for millions of years.

What sets the Morrison Natural History Museum apart is not its size but the depth of its engagement, supported by passionate, knowledgeable guides who offer a relaxed, approachable style. Guests frequently mention guides by name, noting the casual enthusiasm and approachable tone that bring prehistoric creatures to life without the usual museum stiffness. Outside, a short hike leads to a fossil site, with interpretive signs and spectacular views of Red Rocks Amphitheater reminding visitors of the deep geological roots beneath this iconic landmark.

For those with a passion for natural history and a curiosity about Colorado’s paleo past, this museum offers an immersive but accessible experience that balances educational rigor with genuine fun. Whether you're volunteering to assist in fossil preparation or simply enjoying an afternoon of discovery, Morrison Natural History Museum is a rare gem within Colorado’s outdoor and educational landscape.

Adventure Tips

Book Guided Tours Early

Reserve your spot on the guided tours in advance to ensure availability, especially on weekends and holidays.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The museum features a small outdoor trail to fossil sites; sturdy shoes will make the hike more enjoyable.

Prepare for Touch-Friendly Displays

Fossils are hands-on here — bring clean hands and be ready to get up close with ancient bones.

Volunteering Requires Training

If you want to join excavation projects like the Triceratops Gulch, plan for a brief training session beforehand.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The short hike behind the museum with interpretive signs about local fossils
  • The view of Red Rocks Amphitheater from the museum’s outdoor trail

Wildlife

  • Mule deer frequent the nearby foothills
  • Red-tailed hawks soar above the mesa

History

Morrison is renowned for its rich Jurassic fossil beds, which have contributed significantly to paleontology since the late 19th century.

Conservation

The museum promotes sustainable paleontology by involving visitors in responsible fossil excavation and education on protecting fossil sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late morning
Overcast days for even lighting

Best Viewpoints

  • Outdoor fossil site trail
  • Museum lab windows
  • Overlook toward Red Rocks Amphitheater

What to Photograph

Fossil displays
Volunteers at work
Scenic canyon landscapes

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Essential for hiking the outdoor fossil site and museum trails.

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during outdoor activities in warm weather.

summer specific

Sun Protection

Hat and sunscreen are recommended for exposed outdoor areas.

summer specific

Layered Clothing

Be prepared for temperature changes, especially in cooler seasons.

fall|spring|winter specific

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