Full dinosaur skeleton
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University of Wyoming Geological Museum

4.8
·339 reviews·Laramie, United States

Discover 'Big Al' and Wyoming's geological wonders at this free museum on the University of Wyoming campus.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Full dinosaur skeleton

University of Wyoming Geological Museum

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover 'Big Al' and Wyoming's geological wonders at this free museum on the University of Wyoming campus.

4.8
(339 reviews)

"LOVE this museum. We used to come at least once a week when we lived in Laramie over 16 years ago!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Admission Alert! :money_with_wings:

Enjoy this incredible museum without spending a dime! Perfect for families and budget travelers.

Parking Puzzle :parking:

Campus parking can be tricky. Arrive early or research visitor parking options beforehand.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Big Al the Allosaurus

Big Al the Allosaurus

Main Hall

Marvel at the impressive skeleton of 'Big Al,' a nearly complete Allosaurus fossil. A true highlight for any dinosaur lover!

T-Rex Statue Fun

T-Rex Statue Fun

Museum Entrance

Test your aim by tossing a pine cone into the mouth of the iconic 45-foot copper Tyrannosaurus Rex statue.

Wyoming's Geological Wonders

Wyoming's Geological Wonders

Exhibition Halls

Explore a diverse collection of minerals, fossils, and exhibits showcasing the rich geological history of Wyoming.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Big Discoveries

This gem offers free entry, making it a fantastic budget-friendly stop. While it's a smaller museum, it packs a punch with impressive exhibits, especially for dinosaur enthusiasts. Plan for a visit of about 45 minutes to an hour to fully appreciate the displays.

Parking Pointers

Finding parking near the University of Wyoming campus can be a challenge, as many spots are reserved for students or require permits. Consider arriving early or exploring nearby city parking options, though these may also have restrictions. Check campus visitor parking information before your visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday Mornings
Why
Special events often held
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Exploring a geological museum isn’t just about rocks and fossils - it’s about sparking curiosity.☺️ When kids see the wonders of our planet up close, they start asking questions.🤔👏 How do mountains form? What stories do minerals tell?💚 Moments like this encourage children to see science in the world that we all live in. Learning becomes an adventure - and every stone, every crystal, every fossil ...
amysintonbaranowskacoaching
898 likes • 53.4K views

Free Admission Alert! :money_with_wings:

Enjoy this incredible museum without spending a dime! Perfect for families and budget travelers. Instagram

Parking Puzzle :parking:

Campus parking can be tricky. Arrive early or research visitor parking options beforehand. Reddit

University of Wyoming (Laramie) Geological Museum (8/7/25)
dliencos
3 likes • 166 views
Did you know about this FREE dinosaur museum? This is the Geological Museum on the University of Wyoming campus in Laramie, WY. Special roadschool win for us! Be sure to watch till the end. ———————————————————————We are a fulltime traveling family exploring the US since 2019. Join our adventures where we provide rv and boondocking tips and tricks, talk about rv life, and take you on some epic hik...
planbrv
1 likes • 81 views

Don't Miss Big Al! :dinosaur:

The star attraction! Get up close with the impressive Allosaurus skeleton. Instagram

T-Rex Toss Challenge :game_die:

Have fun trying to toss a pine cone into the T-Rex statue's mouth. A unique photo op! Instagram

Looking for something to do tomorrow?? Come to the our Wyoming Rocks! Outreach event where you can build a kit to take home and grow your own mineral at home just like this one! What: Wyoming Rocks! Free and Open to Anyone! Kid-Friendly Where: University of Wyoming Geological Museum When: Saturday, October 11th, 9am-12pm
uwgeolmus
11 likes • 424 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Admission Alert! :money_with_wings:

Enjoy this incredible museum without spending a dime! Perfect for families and budget travelers. Instagram

Parking Puzzle :parking:

Campus parking can be tricky. Arrive early or research visitor parking options beforehand. Reddit

Don't Miss Big Al! :dinosaur:

The star attraction! Get up close with the impressive Allosaurus skeleton. Instagram

T-Rex Toss Challenge :game_die:

Have fun trying to toss a pine cone into the T-Rex statue's mouth. A unique photo op! Instagram

Kid-Friendly Fun :child:

Spark curiosity in children with interactive displays and fascinating fossils. TikTok

Combine with Insect Museum :bug:

Just a few buildings away, the Insect Museum is also worth a visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(339 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the University of Wyoming Geological Museum for its impressive collection, especially the 'Big Al' dinosaur skeleton, and its free admission. Many highlight it as a great, quick stop for families and dinosaur enthusiasts. The main drawback mentioned is the difficulty in finding convenient parking on the university campus.

"Small museum but very good. Less than 45 min to see. Biggest problem is finding parking. Most places on campus are taken and city parking requires permit."

david lukens

"LOVE this museum. We used to come at least once a week when we lived in Laramie over 16 years ago and we were so excited to see all the improvements and changes that have been made since then. While visiting here, hop over to the Insect Museum a few buildings down and check it out too."

Ashley Roberts

"Really cool , it’s small but don’t judge it by its appearance it has so many cool things and it’s free . It’s on campus which is convenient and it’s very clean . Kiddos really welcome"

Erin Aills

What People Like

Free admission
Big Al dinosaur skeleton
Great for kids

What People Dislike

Parking challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located on the University of Wyoming campus in Laramie, WY. You can find it within the Geological Sciences Building. If you're driving, be aware that campus parking can be limited and may require permits. Check the university's visitor parking information for the most up-to-date details. Reddit

Information on public transportation directly to the museum's vicinity can vary. It's best to check local Laramie transit schedules for routes that serve the University of Wyoming campus. Reddit

Parking is often the biggest challenge. Many spots on campus are reserved. Your best bet is to arrive early, look for designated visitor parking areas, or be prepared to use city parking which might also have restrictions. Reddit

Yes, it's about a 45-minute drive from Cheyenne to Laramie. Many visitors find the detour worthwhile to explore the museum. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible, being located within a university building. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility questions regarding ramps or elevators if needed. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The best part? Admission to the University of Wyoming Geological Museum is completely FREE! This makes it an excellent option for families and budget-conscious travelers. Instagram

Museum hours can vary, especially around holidays or during academic breaks. It's highly recommended to check the official University of Wyoming Geological Museum website or their social media for the most current operating hours before your visit. Instagram

No, advance booking is not required as the museum offers free admission. You can typically walk in during their operating hours. Instagram

The museum occasionally hosts outreach events, like the 'Wyoming Rocks!' event mentioned, which can be great for families. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements about special activities. Instagram

The museum is often open on Saturdays, but hours can differ from weekdays. Always verify weekend hours on their official channels before planning your visit. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The absolute highlight is the impressive skeleton of 'Big Al,' an Allosaurus. Don't miss the iconic copper T-Rex statue outside, where you can try tossing a pine cone into its mouth. The museum also features a wide array of minerals and fossils showcasing Wyoming's geological past. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The museum is very popular with kids and families. The dinosaur exhibits, like Big Al, and the T-Rex statue are particularly engaging for younger visitors, sparking curiosity about science. TikTokInstagram

Most visitors find that a visit to the University of Wyoming Geological Museum takes around 45 minutes to an hour. It's a compact museum, but rich with interesting displays. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, it's always a good practice to check for any posted signage regarding photography restrictions, especially for flash photography, which can sometimes be prohibited to protect exhibits. Instagram

While specific interactive exhibits can change, the museum aims to spark curiosity. Events like 'Wyoming Rocks!' offer hands-on activities, and the overall presentation of fossils and minerals is designed to be engaging for all ages. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, being on the University of Wyoming campus, there are usually student dining options or nearby eateries in Laramie. It's best to explore the surrounding area for food. Reddit

It's generally advised not to consume food or drinks inside museums to protect the exhibits. There might be designated areas on campus or nearby parks where you can enjoy a picnic. Reddit

Laramie offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes and pizza places to more traditional American cuisine. You'll find options to suit different tastes and budgets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo op is with the large copper T-Rex statue outside the entrance, especially if you can capture someone tossing a pine cone into its mouth. Inside, the 'Big Al' Allosaurus skeleton is a must-photograph subject. Instagram+1

While personal photography is usually permitted, flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited in museums to prevent damage to delicate exhibits. Always look for signs or ask staff if unsure. Instagram

Generally, personal social media sharing is welcomed. However, professional photography or videography might require special permission. Tagging the museum in your posts is always appreciated! Instagram

For the T-Rex statue, morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful. Inside, the museum lighting is designed for viewing exhibits, so any time during operating hours should be fine for capturing the displays. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The University of Wyoming Geological Museum is a fantastic, free destination for families. The star attraction, 'Big Al' the Allosaurus skeleton, is sure to captivate children's imaginations. The T-Rex statue outside offers a fun, interactive challenge with the pine cone toss, making for great photo opportunities and memorable moments. Instagram+2

Beyond the big dinosaurs, the museum's collection of minerals and fossils provides ample opportunity to spark curiosity about science and the natural world. It's a relatively compact museum, making it manageable for younger attention spans, and the free admission means you can enjoy a substantial outing without breaking the bank. Consider checking for any special kid-friendly events the museum might host. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For those watching their wallets, the University of Wyoming Geological Museum is an absolute must-visit. Its free admission policy makes it one of the best value attractions in Laramie. You can experience impressive dinosaur fossils, unique geological displays, and even a fun outdoor statue without spending a penny on entry. Instagram

The main consideration for budget travelers will be parking. While the museum itself is free, you might encounter parking fees or restrictions on campus. Planning your visit to coincide with times when parking is easier or exploring nearby city parking options can help keep your overall trip costs down. Reddit

📚 Students & Academics

Located on the University of Wyoming campus, the Geological Museum offers a valuable educational resource for students. It provides a tangible connection to the geology and paleontology courses offered at the university, allowing students to see specimens and exhibits firsthand. The presence of 'Big Al' and the diverse mineral collections offer excellent study material. Instagram

For those interested in research, the museum's collections may offer insights into Wyoming's geological history. While direct access to collections might be restricted, the public exhibits serve as an excellent introduction to the field. The museum's location also makes it convenient for students to visit during breaks between classes, provided parking is managed effectively. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Star of the Show: Big Al

The University of Wyoming Geological Museum is home to a truly spectacular specimen: the skeleton of 'Big Al,' an Allosaurus fragilis. This nearly complete fossil is a major draw for visitors, offering a tangible connection to the prehistoric world. The sheer scale and preservation of Big Al are awe-inspiring, making it a highlight for both dinosaur enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Instagram

Seeing Big Al up close provides a profound sense of history and the immense power of nature. It’s a reminder of the millions of years of Earth's history that have unfolded, and the incredible scientific work that goes into uncovering and preserving these ancient giants. The museum's presentation ensures that visitors can appreciate the details of the skeleton, from its formidable skull to its powerful limbs. Instagram

For many, Big Al is the primary reason for visiting the museum, and it rarely disappoints. It’s a fantastic educational tool, sparking questions about dinosaur behavior, diet, and the environment they inhabited. The museum's commitment to showcasing such significant paleontological finds makes it a valuable resource for learning and discovery. Instagram

Beyond the Bones: Wyoming's Geological Heritage

While Big Al often steals the spotlight, the University of Wyoming Geological Museum offers a comprehensive look at Wyoming's rich geological heritage. The museum houses an impressive collection of minerals, showcasing the diverse and often beautiful crystalline structures formed deep within the Earth. These exhibits highlight the state's mineral wealth and the scientific processes behind their formation. Instagram

Beyond minerals, the museum delves into paleontology with a variety of fossils, providing context for the ancient life that once thrived in the region. Visitors can learn about different geological eras and the types of organisms that inhabited Wyoming millions of years ago. This broader scope ensures that the museum appeals to a wide range of interests, from geology buffs to those simply curious about the natural world. Instagram

The museum also features exhibits that explain geological processes such as mountain formation and erosion, helping visitors understand the dynamic forces that have shaped Wyoming's iconic landscapes. This educational approach makes the museum more than just a display of objects; it's a gateway to understanding the very ground beneath our feet and the long, fascinating history of the state. Instagram

The Iconic T-Rex Statue: A Campus Landmark

Standing guard outside the museum is a striking 45-foot-tall copper statue of a Tyrannosaurus Rex. This impressive sculpture, created by retired UW Professor Samuel H. Knight, has become a beloved campus landmark and a unique photo opportunity for visitors. Instagram

A fun tradition associated with the statue is the pine cone toss. Visitors are encouraged to try their hand at tossing a pine cone into the T-Rex's mouth. It's a playful challenge that adds an element of interactive fun to the museum visit, and you can often spot pine cones that have successfully hit their mark. Instagram

This statue not only serves as a welcoming beacon for the museum but also embodies the spirit of discovery and a touch of whimsy that makes the University of Wyoming Geological Museum a memorable destination. It's a perfect spot for a quick, memorable photo that captures the essence of the museum's theme. Instagram

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