About three hours south of Indianapolis, Cave City is home to Dinosaur World, a must-visit attraction for families and dinosaur enthusiasts alike. If you’re traveling along I-65, you can’t miss it—a towering Tyrannosaurus rex stands guard at the entrance, welcoming visitors with its sharp teeth and tiny arms. But don’t worry—Dinosaur World is all about fun, not fright!
Whether you’re looking for an engaging educational experience, a break from a long road trip, or just a fun day trip, Dinosaur World offers something for everyone.
Explore the self-guided tours
Dinosaur World features self-guided tours that take visitors on a journey through wooded trails lined with life-sized dinosaur replicas. As we walked along the paved path, we spotted various prehistoric creatures, from packs of Stegosaurus to adorable Woolly Mammoth babies.
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Hands-on activities
Dinosaur World offers several hands-on, interactive activities, making it a fantastic place for kids to learn and play.
Fossil Dig
One of the most popular activities is the fossil dig, where kids can sift through sand to uncover real fossils. My children found shark teeth and fossilized crinoids—which, according to the attendant, are known as “Indian money” in Kentucky. Each child gets to keep five fossils as souvenirs.
Gemstone Panning
Another fun activity is panning for gemstones at the assay station. Similar to the fossil dig, this activity involves using a screen box and sluice to wash away soil, revealing beautiful gems hidden beneath the mud. Watching the gems emerge is an exciting experience for kids and adults alike!
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Dinosaur-themed playground
The dinosaur-themed playground, with slides and swings, was a hit with kids of all ages. This area also has lots of shaded picnic tables, where you can sit, relax and enjoy a snack or lunch. Bringing your own food is encouraged (coolers are welcome, too!).
Museum
When you’re ready to slow down, step into the Dinosaur World museum, where you will see real and cast prehistoric fossils, dinosaur artifacts, and informational panels along the walls. This is where some of your (or your kid’s) dinosaur questions might be answered.
Your Dog will Love Dinosaur World
One of the unique aspects of Dinosaur World is its dog-friendly policy. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome throughout the park, and water stations are provided for your furry companions.
More Info about Dinosaur World:
Dinosaur World is located at 711 Mammoth Cave Road in Cave City, Kentucky. It is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST). For more information, visit www.dinosaurworld.com
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