Wyoming Dinosaur Center Travel Guide — Wyoming

Our Wyoming Dinosaur Center guide covers practical planning for Wyoming Dinosaur Center Wyoming — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground. Home to over 30 mounted dinosaur skeletons and thousands of artifacts, this museum also offers incredible dig programs for aspiring paleontologists and curious travelers alike. Our team has compiled the essential facts and insider tips to ensure your visit to this world-class paleontological complex is nothing short of spectacular.

Why Visit Wyoming Dinosaur Center

If you're wondering, "is Wyoming Dinosaur Center worth visiting?", our resounding answer is an enthusiastic yes. This isn't just another museum with dusty exhibits; it's an immersive journey back to the Late Jurassic Period, offering a unique blend of education and hands-on adventure that few other institutions can match. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center in Thermopolis stands out for its extensive collection of nearly 20,000 fossils, many discovered right here in Wyoming. We're talking about towering dinosaur skeletons, including the formidable 35-foot-tall T-Rex named Stan, the massive 106-foot-long Supersaurus "Jimbo," and the only Archaeopteryx fossil found outside of Europe, known as the "Thermopolis Specimen."

What truly sets the Wyoming Dinosaur Center apart and makes it so incredibly worth visiting are its active dig sites. Unlike many museums where you only see the finished product, here you can witness paleontology in action, and even participate in it. Imagine the thrill of uncovering a 150-million-year-old dinosaur bone yourself! The museum's dedication to both scientific research and public engagement creates an unparalleled experience for all ages. It's a place where history isn't just observed; it's unearthed.

Who It's Best For

The Wyoming Dinosaur Center caters to a surprisingly broad audience, making it an ideal stop for many types of travelers. Naturally, it's a dream destination for **dinosaur enthusiasts and aspiring paleontologists** of all ages. The sheer volume and quality of the mounted skeletons and artifacts are enough to captivate anyone with an interest in prehistoric life.

However, we've found it's particularly well-suited for **families with children**. The interactive exhibits, the preparation lab where visitors can watch technicians at work, and especially the various dig programs, transform a museum visit into an exciting, educational adventure. Kids as young as three can participate in the "Shovel-Ready" program, and there's a dedicated "Kids' Dig" for ages 6-13, ensuring that even the youngest explorers can get their hands dirty.

**Educators and students** will find the Wyoming Dinosaur Center an invaluable resource for learning about geology, natural history, and paleontological techniques. The professional development workshops and the opportunity to work alongside real paleontologists offer unique learning opportunities.

Finally, **curious travelers and road-trippers** seeking a unique and engaging experience will find the Wyoming Dinosaur Center a refreshing change of pace. It's an excellent addition to any Wyoming itinerary, especially for those traveling between major national parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton, offering a deep dive into the region's ancient past.

Getting There & Parking

Understanding how to get to Wyoming Dinosaur Center is straightforward, as Thermopolis is strategically located in central Wyoming. The easiest and most recommended way to reach the museum is by car. Thermopolis sits at the junction of Highways 120 and 20, making it accessible from various directions. For instance, it's approximately a two-hour drive from Casper, offering scenic landscapes along US-20.

If you're coming from the popular national parks, the drive is manageable: it's about a 4-hour, 14-minute drive (approximately 202 miles) from Yellowstone National Park, and around a 4-hour, 30-minute drive (approximately 194 miles) from Grand Teton National Park. From Cody, Wyoming, it's an even shorter trip, roughly 1 hour and 24 minutes (about 84 miles) via State Highway 120.

For those already in Thermopolis, the Wyoming Dinosaur Center is easily accessible. It's just a few kilometers from the town center, meaning a short 5-10 minute taxi ride or even a pleasant bike ride. Public transportation options in this part of Wyoming are limited, so we highly recommend having your own vehicle or renting one for the most flexibility.

Parking at Wyoming Dinosaur Center

When you arrive at the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, you'll find ample parking available directly on the museum grounds. This makes visiting convenient, especially if you're traveling with family or carrying gear for a dig program. There are no specific fees mentioned for parking, suggesting it is complimentary for visitors.

Top Things to Do

The Wyoming Dinosaur Center offers a wealth of activities, both within its walls and out in the field. Beyond the museum, Thermopolis itself provides a charming array of attractions, ensuring there are plenty of things to do at Wyoming Dinosaur Center and in the surrounding area.

At the Wyoming Dinosaur Center:

• Explore the Museum Galleries: Wander through halls showcasing over 30 mounted dinosaur skeletons and thousands of fossils and artifacts. Don't miss the "Thermopolis Specimen" Archaeopteryx, the massive Supersaurus "Jimbo," and the impressive T-Rex, Stan. The exhibits trace the origins of life on Earth, from single-cell organisms to the dominance of dinosaurs.
• Witness Paleontology in the Preparation Lab: Observe paleontologists and technicians meticulously cleaning and preserving newly discovered fossils. The lab often has viewing areas, offering a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the scientific process.
• Join a Dig Program: This is truly one of the top things to do at Wyoming Dinosaur Center. We highly recommend participating in one of their unique, hands-on excavation experiences:
  • Shovel-Ready Program: A half-day dig (9:00 AM-12:00 PM or 1:00 PM-4:00 PM) for ages 3 and up, running daily from May 25 to September 6, 2026. Participants learn proper digging techniques and work on active dig sites. The cost is $80.00 per person and includes museum admission. Advanced reservations are required, and closed-toe shoes are mandatory.
  • Dig for a Day Program: A full-day adventure (starting at 8:00 AM and ending at 3:00 PM) from May 25 to September 6, 2026, where you can dig for bones, search for marine fossils, and enjoy a guided museum tour. A sack lunch is provided. Ages 3 and up are welcome, with advanced reservations and mandatory closed-toe shoes.
  • Dino Expedition: Generations: A special 3-day "Exca-Vacation" for grandparents and grandchildren (age 5 and up) offered on select dates in June, July, and August 2026. This program involves excavating bones, lab work, and exploring for fossils. Lunches are provided, but lodging is not. Advanced registration is required.
  • Kids' Dig Program: A two-day program designed specifically for youth aged 6 to 13. Kids learn prospecting, digging, prepping, and molding/casting, taking home a souvenir. It's a kids-only program, limited to 20 children per session, with check-in at 8:30 AM and activities from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Closed-toe shoes and a water bottle are required.
  • Paleo Prep Program: A hands-on lab experience (11:00 AM-2:00 PM) from May 25 to September 6, 2026, where you learn fossil preparation techniques. Open to all ages, it includes museum admission. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory.
• Dino De-Tour: Take a guided tour into the surrounding hills to see active dig sites and the "Something Interesting" (SI) Dig Site, where many museum fossils were found. These tours operate from May 25 through September 2nd.

Things to Do in Thermopolis:

Beyond the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, Thermopolis is a vibrant town with plenty to explore. Here are some of our top recommendations for things to do in Thermopolis:

• Soak in Hot Springs State Park: This is Thermopolis's signature attraction. Enjoy the free public soaking pools at the State Bath House, or opt for the more amenity-rich Star Plunge or TePee Pools and Spa, which offer water slides and other features. Don't forget to spot the resident bison herd roaming the park!
• Walk the Swinging Bridge: Within Hot Springs State Park, take a leisurely stroll across the Swinging Bridge over the Bighorn River and admire the colorful Rainbow Terraces, a beautiful geological formation.
• Visit Legend Rock Petroglyph Site: About 20 miles west of Thermopolis, this historic site features over 283 petroglyphs on 92 sandstone panels, some nearly 2,000 years old. Be sure to check access details, as it may require a key depending on the season.
• Explore the Hot Springs County Museum & Cultural Center: Dive into Wyoming's pioneer history, Native American culture, and local natural history with original artifacts and displays.
• Drive the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway: South of Thermopolis, this stunning byway offers breathtaking views of the Big Horn Basin and the Wind River winding through dramatic canyon landscapes.
• Visit Wyoming Whiskey: Take a short trip north to Kirby to tour the highly-ranked Wyoming Whiskey distillery.
• Outdoor Adventures: The Bighorn River is a blue-ribbon trout fishery, perfect for fishing or rafting. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are also popular in the surrounding mountains.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Wyoming Dinosaur Center and Thermopolis largely depends on your priorities, especially if you plan to participate in a dig program. Our team generally recommends the **late spring through early fall (May to early September)** for the most complete experience.

• Summer (May 16 - September 15): This is peak season for a reason. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center extends its hours from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and all dig programs (Shovel-Ready, Dig for a Day, Dino Expedition: Generations, Kids' Dig, and Paleo Prep) are fully operational. The weather is typically warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities like digging and exploring Hot Springs State Park. However, this is also when Thermopolis sees the most visitors, so expect larger crowds and book accommodations and dig programs well in advance.
• Fall (Mid-September to October): As the summer crowds thin, the weather remains pleasant, though cooler. The museum's winter hours (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) begin on September 16. While the major dig programs conclude by early September, the Dino De-Tour might still be available until September 2nd. This can be a lovely time for those who prefer a quieter visit and still want to enjoy the outdoor attractions without the intense summer heat.
• Spring (April to Mid-May): Similar to fall, spring offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds before the summer rush. The museum operates on winter hours (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) until May 15. Dig programs typically start around May 25th. This can be a great time to visit if you're primarily interested in the museum and the hot springs, with the added benefit of potentially seeing spring wildlife.
• Winter (November to March): The museum maintains its 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. hours, but dig programs are not available. Thermopolis's hot springs remain a draw year-round, offering a warm escape from the cold. If your focus is purely on the indoor museum exhibits and a relaxing soak, winter can be a peaceful time to visit, with minimal crowds. Remember, the museum is closed on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Easter Sunday.

Our expert verdict: For the full, immersive experience, including the popular dig programs, aim for June, July, or August. For a quieter visit with pleasant weather, late May or early September are excellent choices.

Where to Stay Nearby

Finding comfortable Wyoming Dinosaur Center lodging is easy, with several excellent options in Thermopolis to suit various budgets and preferences. Many hotels are conveniently located close to both the museum and Hot Springs State Park, allowing you to maximize your time exploring.

Here are some of the best hotels near Wyoming Dinosaur Center, many within a short drive or even walking distance:

• Hot Springs Hotel and Spa: A popular choice, often praised for its location within Hot Springs State Park and access to mineral hot tubs. It's approximately 0.5 miles from the Wyoming Dinosaur Center.
• Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel: This hotel is also highly rated and offers amenities like free breakfast and free WiFi. It's about 0.5 miles from the museum.
• Quality Inn Thermopolis Near Hot Springs: A pet-friendly option offering free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. It's located about 1.3 miles from the Wyoming Dinosaur Center.
• Elk Antler Inn: This motel is approximately 0.5 miles from the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, offering clean and quiet stays.
• Roundtop Mountain Vista - Cabins and Motel: Located about 0.7 miles from the museum, offering cabins and motel rooms.
• El Rancho Motel: Situated about 1 mile from the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, this motel is well-regarded.
• Rainbow Motel: Another option within 0.7 miles of the museum.
• Two Rivers Inn: Located about 0.7 miles from the Wyoming Dinosaur Center.
• Super 8 Thermopolis: A budget-friendly option that often offers pet-friendly rooms and pool facilities.

When considering Wyoming Dinosaur Center lodging, we recommend booking in advance, especially during the peak summer months, to secure your preferred accommodation. Many of these hotels are also close to other Thermopolis attractions, making them convenient bases for your entire trip.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you plan your adventure to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center and the charming town of Thermopolis, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary. This plan balances immersive dinosaur experiences with local attractions and relaxation.

Day 1: Dinosaur Discovery & Hot Springs Relaxation

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Full-Day Dig Experience. Kick off your trip with the "Dig for a Day" program at the Wyoming Dinosaur Center. Arrive at 8:00 AM for orientation, then head to the active dig sites. You'll spend the morning working alongside paleontologists, learning excavation techniques, and searching for real dinosaur bones. Remember to wear closed-toe shoes and bring a refillable water bottle.
• Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Picnic at the Dig Site. A sack lunch is provided as part of the "Dig for a Day" program, allowing you to enjoy a meal in the field.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Continue Digging & Museum Tour. Resume your excavation efforts. After the dig concludes at 3:00 PM, you'll return to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center for a guided tour of the museum, exploring its impressive collection of mounted skeletons and artifacts.
• Late Afternoon (3:30 PM - 5:30 PM): Hot Springs State Park. Head to Hot Springs State Park for a relaxing soak. Enjoy the free public bath house or opt for the family-friendly Star Plunge or TePee Pools and Spa. Take a leisurely stroll across the Swinging Bridge and admire the Rainbow Terraces.
• Evening: Dinner in Thermopolis. Enjoy a meal at one of Thermopolis's local restaurants. Options range from casual comfort food to more diverse cuisines.

Day 2: Local History, Petroglyphs & Scenic Drives

• Morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Hot Springs County Museum & Cultural Center. Start your day with a deep dive into local history at the Hot Springs County Museum. Learn about Wyoming's pioneer past, Native American heritage, and the region's geological significance.
• Late Morning (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Legend Rock Petroglyph Site. Drive about 20 miles west of Thermopolis to the Legend Rock Petroglyph Site. Allow ample time to explore the ancient rock art. Remember to check if you need a key for access, depending on the season.
• Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Picnic or Local Eatery. Pack a picnic to enjoy near Legend Rock, or head back towards Thermopolis for lunch.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway. Embark on a scenic drive through the breathtaking Wind River Canyon south of Thermopolis. Marvel at the dramatic landscapes and keep an eye out for wildlife.
• Late Afternoon/Evening: Optional: Wyoming Whiskey Tasting or Departure. If time permits, consider a visit to the Wyoming Whiskey distillery in Kirby. Alternatively, begin your journey to your next destination, perhaps Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park, both within a few hours' drive.

This itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted based on your interests and the time of year you visit. Always check the latest operating hours and reservation requirements for all attractions, especially the dig programs at the Wyoming Dinosaur Center.

Last updated: 2026-07-08 by the Roam States team.