Dinosaur State Park
Explore ancient history at Dinosaur State Park, featuring 500 fossilized tracks and engaging exhibits. A must-visit for dino lovers!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better track viewing
Dinosaur State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better track viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient history at Dinosaur State Park, featuring 500 fossilized tracks and engaging exhibits. A must-visit for dino lovers!
"A cool and interesting stop with a wonderful exhibit of fossil tracks and interactive elements for kids."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for walking on trails and in the riverbed to see dinosaur tracks. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and water are crucial for outdoor exploration. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Preserved Dinosaur Tracks
Riverbed
Walk in the footsteps of giants! See real 113-million-year-old dinosaur footprints etched into the riverbed.
Geodome Exhibit
Indoor Exhibit Hall
Marvel at over 500 fossilized dinosaur tracks displayed under a protective geodome, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life.
Animal Encounters
Indoor Exhibit Area
Get up close with live reptiles and insects, including snakes and lizards, with interactive sessions led by knowledgeable staff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Dinosaur Tracks
Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for walking on trails and in the riverbed to see dinosaur tracks. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and water are crucial for outdoor exploration. :sunwithface:
🦟 Bring Insect Repellent
Especially important for outdoor trails to ward off bugs. :bug:
💧 Check River Levels
Tracks are best seen when the Paluxy River is low. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Essential for walking on trails and in the riverbed to see dinosaur tracks. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and water are crucial for outdoor exploration. :sunwithface:
🦟 Bring Insect Repellent
Especially important for outdoor trails to ward off bugs. :bug:
💧 Check River Levels
Tracks are best seen when the Paluxy River is low. :water_wave:
👨👩👧👦 Great for Kids
Interactive exhibits and animal encounters make it fun for families. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Dinosaur State Park to be a charming and educational stop, particularly for families with young children. The affordable admission and engaging exhibits, especially the fossil tracks and live animal encounters, are frequently praised. Some reviews mention that the animal housing could be cleaner and that the indoor exhibits, while informative, can be a bit repetitive.
"This is mostly geared towards kids, but has some interesting dino prints, some snakes, and an iguana. We stopped here to break up a long drive and enjoyed walking the trails. It does seem like the animal's housing could be cleaner. Overall we enjoyed the stop and it was cool to see the prints. Would be a great place for kids who are into dinosaurs!"
Tracy Torry
"Very cute place for kids or young adults. This is a very short attraction site. The tickets are $6 per person and also have a trail outside of the building.
They also have a schedule for movie or activities when you first enter. Very entertaining for children and informational. Also have some reptiles and insect exhibits. They had snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and roaches. Definitely go to the animal encounter if you have the chance, your little ones will absolutely love it. The spoke person tells you facts about the animals they bring. We saw 2 lizards and a snake where they let you pet them. It was also short, around 30 minutes including an interactive q&a.
I enjoyed their short exhibit to learn about the fossils, although a little repetitive about the facts. They have a wonderful exhibit of fossil tracks as seen in the video. Once you finish there, there is a room filled with fossils, rocks etc where the kids can interact with them as well as see the minerals behind the glass. Very cool and interesting.
They also have a gift shop at the front when you circle through the attraction. Make sure to donate what you can given the chance!"
Theresa
"Absolutely amazing state park in Connecticut, never been to that state before so it was such a good experience and introduction to the area. Tickets were very reasonable, don't quote me on it but I think $6 for adults and kids range from $3 to zero. We got to see and pet snakes and geckos, the exhibits were filled with reptiles and insects, the staff was incredible. I could have stayed all day and would still want to come back again. Awesome job!"
David R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dinosaur State Park is located in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. For those traveling from nearby cities like Hartford, it's a relatively short drive. Some visitors mention it's a good stop for a family day trip from the surrounding New England area.
Absolutely! Many visitors find it to be a perfect destination for a day trip, especially for families. The park offers walking trails and indoor exhibits that can be enjoyed within a few hours.
Public transportation options to Dinosaur State Park are limited. It is primarily a destination best reached by car. Visitors often combine a trip here with other attractions in the Connecticut area.
From Hartford, CT, take I-91 South to Exit 23 for West Street. Turn right onto West Street and follow signs for Dinosaur State Park. If coming from other parts of New England, consult your GPS for the most direct route to Rocky Hill, CT.
Yes, ample parking is available at Dinosaur State Park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally very reasonable. Adults typically pay around $6, while children's tickets range from $3 to free, depending on age. It's a great value for the experience.
Advance booking is usually not required for Dinosaur State Park, especially for general admission. However, for special events or programs, it's always a good idea to check their official website.
The park typically operates daily, often from 9 AM to 5 PM. However, it's best to verify the current hours on their official website before your visit, as they can vary seasonally or for special events.
While specific discounts may vary, the general admission prices are already quite affordable. Children often have reduced rates or free entry, making it a budget-friendly option for families.
Dinosaur State Park in Connecticut is a state park, but it operates with its own admission fees. A general Connecticut State Park pass may not cover entry here; it's best to confirm directly with the park.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The park's main draw is its impressive collection of over 500 fossilized dinosaur tracks preserved under a large geodome. Visitors can also explore outdoor walking trails and indoor exhibits featuring fossils and live reptiles.
The fossilized tracks within the geodome are visible year-round. However, if you are referring to sites like Dinosaur Valley State Park in Texas, the real tracks in the riverbed are best seen when the water levels are low, typically during dry periods. 
Children will love the interactive sand pit for 'digging' for fossils, the animal encounter sessions with live reptiles, and the educational exhibits. The walking trails are also stroller-friendly.
Yes, there are walking trails available, some of which are paved and stroller-friendly. These trails offer opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings and learn along the way.
Yes, the park features exhibits with live reptiles, including snakes, lizards, and turtles. They also host animal encounter sessions where you can learn about and sometimes pet these creatures.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Dinosaur State Park for personal use. Capturing the impressive fossil tracks and exhibits is encouraged.
The geodome housing the fossil tracks is a prime photo spot. The outdoor trails and the live animal exhibits also offer great opportunities for memorable pictures.
While personal photography is welcome, professional photography or videography may require special permits. Always check with park staff if you plan on extensive filming or professional shoots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by park management.
You can expect to capture images of ancient dinosaur footprints, fascinating fossils, diverse reptiles, and the natural beauty of the park's trails.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The park's stroller-friendly trails allow even the youngest explorers to enjoy the outdoors. The reasonable admission fees make it an affordable outing. Parents often rave about how their kids are captivated by the dinosaur tracks and the live animal presentations, making it a memorable educational experience.
Budget Travelers
Beyond the low entry cost, the park offers a lot of value with its educational exhibits, interactive activities, and outdoor trails. Packing a picnic lunch is also a great way to save money, as there are pleasant areas to enjoy your meal amidst nature.
Dinosaur Enthusiasts
While the Connecticut location focuses on Early Jurassic tracks, comparing it with sites like Dinosaur Valley State Park in Texas, which showcases Cretaceous tracks, offers a broader perspective on dinosaur history. The park's commitment to preservation and education makes it a valuable stop for serious enthusiasts.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Science Behind the Tracks
Beyond the geodome, the park features indoor exhibits that delve deeper into paleontology. These displays often include fossil casts, minerals, and information about dinosaur evolution. The park also hosts educational programs and animal encounters, making it a dynamic learning environment. The staff are frequently praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, enhancing the visitor experience.
For those interested in the broader context of dinosaur discoveries, it's worth noting that other locations, like Dinosaur Valley State Park in Texas, showcase tracks from different geological periods and species. The Texas park, for instance, features tracks from the Cretaceous period, primarily from the Acrocanthosaurus and Sauroposeidon. The discovery of these tracks in Texas has often been linked to drought conditions revealing them in the Paluxy River bed.
+2Exploring the Trails and Wildlife
As you explore the trails, keep an eye out for the local wildlife. While you won't find live dinosaurs, the park is home to various birds, small mammals, and insects. The surrounding natural environment provides a peaceful backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating hike. Remember to bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months, as the trails can be a bit buggy.
For those who enjoy a more hands-on experience, the park often includes interactive elements like a sand play area where children can simulate digging for fossils. This adds an element of fun and discovery, complementing the educational aspects of the visit. The combination of indoor learning and outdoor exploration makes for a well-rounded experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit