Is prior experience necessary?

No prior paleontology experience is needed; all skill levels are welcome.

What should I bring on the day?

Dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and follow the museum's guidelines for excavation tools.

Are children allowed to participate?

Yes, children ages 8 and up can join, but adult supervision is recommended.

Is the fossil site safe?

Yes, the site is carefully managed, with safety protocols in place for all visitors.

Can I keep the fossils I find?

Fossils are typically retained by the museum for further study and exhibition.

What if the weather is bad?

In case of severe weather, activities may be rescheduled or moved indoors; check with the museum in advance.

Paleontology Adventure at Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum

Situated in the heart of the rich fossil beds of Alberta, the Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum offers an unparalleled journey into the prehistoric world. The 'Palaeontologist for a Day' program transforms visitors into real researchers, allowing them to uncover ancient secrets amid the rugged beauty of Pipestone Creek’s renowned bonebed. This hands-on excavation experience is a standout for outdoor enthusiasts craving a blend of adventure, history, and science. As you join the museum's expert paleontologists, you'll sift through sediment layers, identify fossil fragments, and help piece together the story of dinosaurs that roamed this land millions of years ago. The landscape around the museum features striking fossil outcrops and sprawling grasslands that shape the unique terrain of the region. Participants will then enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum’s extensive collections, gaining insight into fossil preservation and compositional techniques, making this a comprehensive and immersive adventure. Perfect for families, school groups, or curious travelers, this experience emphasizes conservation and scientific discovery, showcasing how modern excavations contribute to our understanding of prehistoric life. The site’s proximity to profound geological formations and vibrant fossil history ensures each outing feels like an expedition to another era. Why is this adventure so special? It's one of the rare opportunities to engage directly with authentic dinosaur conservation efforts, and the landscape's rugged appeal makes each dig feel like unearthing treasures from a lost world. Whether you're an amateur paleontologist or just seeking an inspiring outdoor activity, the Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum provides a compelling mix of education, adventure, and discovery that stands out in Alberta’s rich landscape.

About Philip J Currie Dinosaur Museum

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.