Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center
Discover life-sized dinosaurs, fossils, and unique plants at this Jurupa Valley gem. A fun, educational weekend escape!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover life-sized dinosaurs, fossils, and unique plants at this Jurupa Valley gem. A fun, educational weekend escape!
"A fantastic place to come with kiddos for a little Dino adventure!"
🚗 Parking Fee & Rebate
Pay $10 for parking, get $10 back if you spend $40 in the gift shop/nursery.
🚶♀️ Hike for Full Experience
Prepare for a hike to see all exhibits, especially the exclusive dino sculptures on tours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Sculptures
Outdoor exhibits
Encounter life-sized dinosaur sculptures, including the famous 'Eddie' the mammoth, set in a natural landscape.
Earth Science Museum
Indoor museum
Explore fascinating fossils, unique stones, and learn about California's ancient geological past.
Cactus Garden & Nursery
Outdoor gardens
Wander through a diverse collection of cacti and rare plants, with options to purchase from the nursery.
Live Critters
Indoor exhibits
See a variety of live reptiles and other fascinating creatures housed within the center.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekend Wonders: Plan Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Ants
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fee & Rebate
Pay $10 for parking, get $10 back if you spend $40 in the gift shop/nursery.
🚶♀️ Hike for Full Experience
Prepare for a hike to see all exhibits, especially the exclusive dino sculptures on tours.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen and hats, as much of the center is outdoors and can get very hot.
🧺 Picnic Friendly
No food or drinks provided, but picnic tables are available for outside food.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fee & Rebate
Pay $10 for parking, get $10 back if you spend $40 in the gift shop/nursery.
🚶♀️ Hike for Full Experience
Prepare for a hike to see all exhibits, especially the exclusive dino sculptures on tours.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Bring sunscreen and hats, as much of the center is outdoors and can get very hot.
🧺 Picnic Friendly
No food or drinks provided, but picnic tables are available for outside food.
🐜 Ant Alert!
Watch out for red ants on trails, especially near the turtle pond.
👶 Stroller Recommended
An all-terrain stroller is helpful, especially for young children in warm weather.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center for its unique dinosaur exhibits and engaging Earth Science museum, making it a fun and educational outing for families. The free admission with a reasonable parking fee is a significant draw, and the option to bring your own food adds to its appeal. Some visitors noted the presence of ants on trails and the need for sun protection, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and enjoyable experience.
"If you got a kid under 5 years old, you gonna need the rider stroller for a better experience. At 80 degrees nobody wants to be carrying a child and have no stroller lol. A rider stroller is all terrain and useful at this place. Alot of red ants in the trails especially near the turtle pond. So be alert if you got kids. Prepare to hike if you want to see everything. Bring some sunscreen. I gave it four stars because they didnt have magnets at the gift shop. But overall great experience and would come back to get the guided tour because they have exclusive dino sculptures at the top for tour only."
Melystikal
"It a fantastic place to come with kiddos for a little Dino adventure! They are a non profit so donations are greatly appreciated they ask for a $10 parking fee but after that it's free to explore. They are closed Monday through Friday for schools but are open from 9am - 3:00 pm Saturday and Sunday. They have a gift shop and some reptiles to see inside and a museum thats really cool as well. They do not provide drinks or food but they have picnic tables so you can bring your own items . They do provide a guided tour which is $9 per person. And the bathrooms are clean and have a couple wheelchair accessible bathrooms."
Desiree Alonso
"Very Nice. They dont have a café but allow outside food. Very nice walk and 10 dollar parking for the day is a steal. They have outdoor seating that is shaded and nice"
Aaron
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center is located at 7621 Granite Hill Drive, Jurupa Valley, CA 92509. It's easily accessible from the 60 Freeway.
Information on public transportation is limited, but driving is the most common method. Parking is available for a fee.
From Riverside, take the 60 Freeway east towards Jurupa Valley. The center is visible from the freeway.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark, often recognized by the large dinosaur sculptures visible from the 60 Freeway.
Follow signs for Granite Hill Drive off the 60 Freeway. The entrance is clearly marked.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is free! There is a $10 parking fee per car, which can be rebated if you spend $40 in the nursery or gift shop.
The center is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. They are closed weekdays for school groups.
No advance booking is required for general admission. You pay the parking fee upon arrival.
While admission is free, the parking fee can be offset by purchases in the gift shop or nursery. Guided tours have a separate fee.
The center is primarily closed to the public on weekdays as it hosts school field trips. Weekend visits are recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore life-sized dinosaur sculptures, an Earth Science museum with fossils and rocks, a cactus garden, and see live reptiles.
Yes, guided tours are available for an additional fee per person and offer access to exclusive dino sculptures at the top.
Yes, there are walking trails, but be prepared for some hiking to see everything. An all-terrain stroller is recommended for younger children.
Wander through the outdoor exhibits to see the impressive dinosaur sculptures. A guided tour provides access to special exhibits.
Yes, it is stroller-friendly, though an all-terrain stroller is recommended due to the trails.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, the center does not provide food or drinks. It's a non-profit organization that encourages visitors to bring their own.
Absolutely! There are picnic tables available, making it a great spot to enjoy a packed meal. +1
There are various dining options in Jurupa Valley and Riverside, a short drive from the center.
The center has shaded outdoor seating and picnic tables, perfect for a family lunch.
While food isn't sold, the gift shop might have small items. It's best to bring your own snacks and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the life-sized dinosaur sculptures, unique cacti, and the diverse rock and fossil displays.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
Professional photography or commercial use may require prior permission. Always check with staff if unsure.
Morning light can be ideal for capturing the exhibits without harsh shadows, especially for the outdoor sculptures.
Yes, you can photograph the reptiles and other critters, but avoid using flash photography that might disturb them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The Earth Science Museum offers engaging exhibits on fossils and rocks that can captivate curious young minds. Remember to bring an all-terrain stroller for easier navigation of the trails and to keep little ones comfortable, especially in warmer weather. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
This fee can be effectively waived if you plan to make a purchase from the gift shop or nursery, turning a necessary expense into a potential discount. Bringing your own food and drinks for a picnic lunch further minimizes on-site spending. 📚 Educational Groups & Field Trips
Guided tours are available and are highly praised for their ability to engage children with fascinating facts about dinosaurs, fossils, and the natural world. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: Dinosaurs and Fossils
+1 Beyond the giants of the past, the center's Earth Science Museum offers a deep dive into geology, showcasing a variety of fossils, rocks, and minerals. These exhibits provide a tangible connection to California's ancient history, revealing that the region was once submerged or vastly different. +1Many visitors, especially families with children, find the dinosaur exhibits to be the highlight of their visit. The outdoor setting allows for an immersive experience, making it feel like a true adventure.
+1 The museum section complements this by offering educational insights into the geological processes that formed these ancient treasures. It's a fantastic way to spark curiosity about paleontology and earth sciences in both kids and adults. Gardens and Nature Exploration
This green space offers a tranquil contrast to the more dynamic dinosaur exhibits, providing a moment of calm and appreciation for desert plant life. The nursery also presents an opportunity for visitors to take home a piece of the center's botanical collection. The center also features live critters, adding another layer of natural discovery. These exhibits often include a variety of reptiles, allowing visitors to observe and learn about these fascinating creatures up close.
+1 The combination of geological wonders, prehistoric giants, and diverse plant and animal life makes the Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center a comprehensive destination for nature and science enthusiasts of all ages. Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
While admission is free, there is a $10 parking fee per car. However, this fee can be fully rebated if you make a purchase of $40 or more in the gift shop or nursery, offering a great incentive for souvenir hunters. Visitors should be prepared for the Southern California heat, especially during summer months, as temperatures can soar. Bringing sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water is highly recommended.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit