Discover Dino Fossils at Museum of Natural History

Calling all dinosaur lovers! The newest exhibit at University of Michigan Museum of Natural History is tons of dino-mite fun for the entire family. 

Dinosaur Discoveries: Ancient Fossils, New Ideas is a traveling exhibition from the American Museum of Natural History. The exhibit will be in Ann Arbor through Sept. 15, 2024. 

Quick details about Dinosaur Discoveries

• Feb. 17-Sept. 15, 2024

• Address: 1105 N University Ave., Ann Arbor

• Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday
• Cost: Free 
• Parking: The museum recommends parking in the Palmer Parking Structure. The parking rate is $2.20 per hour. This fee is credit card only and applies from 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Sunday. The Forest Avenue Parking Structure is also available. 

Dinosaur Discoveries explores the latest dinosaur science from the past two decades. Fossils, computer simulations and life-like models will allow guests to discover how dinos looked, moved, behaved and became extinct, based on the newest interpretations of ancient fossils.

Exhibit highlights include a full-size cast skeleton leg of a Tyrannosaurus rex; a model of an Apatosaurus skeleton neck; jurassic dioramas and more interactive features that display the innovative ways that scientists are reinterpreting old fossil evidence using the latest nanotechnology. 

Before you grab your little dino lovers and head to the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, read up on these tips for visiting the museum with kids and find more kid-approved attractions and restaurants to visit while you’re in Ann Arbor. 

Tips for visiting University of Michigan Museum of Natural History in Ann Arbor

• To plan your visit, check out this museum map or download the museum app. The app includes self-guided tour ideas, more exhibit information and an events calendar.
• Family restrooms are available on the lower level and second floor. 
• Food and drinks are not permitted, so plan on eating before or after your visit. Water is permitted.
• Changing tables are available in all multiple-toilet restrooms. 
• Strollers are allowed. The entire museum is stroller accessible. 
• Private spaces to nurse or feed are available by the lower level family restroom.
• A quiet space is available on the Lower Level for guests who need a break from stimulation.
• Wheelchair rentals are available. There are dedicated wheelchair spots in the planetarium, and all bathrooms and water fountains are wheelchair accessible.  

Other things to do with kids in Ann Arbor

• After a museum visit, get your wiggles out at these great outdoor playgrounds or indoor play places in Ann Arbor. 
• For more nature fun, visit Leslie Science & Nature Center. This nature center is interesting for visitors of all ages and it’s free! 
• Get curious and make hands-on discoveries at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. 
• End the day with something sweet! We can’t get enough of these over-the-top desserts in Ann Arbor, including XL stuffed cookies and loaded cinnamon rolls.
• Looking for more places to eat, play and shop with kids? Check out our family guide to Ann Arbor.  

Follow Metro Parent on Instagram.