The Dinosaur National Monument is a significant paleontological site that was established in the year 1915. It holds the status of a national monument in the United States. This site is a testament to the rich history of the prehistoric era, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the world of dinosaurs and other ancient creatures.
The Dinosaur National Monument spans an area located at the border between the states of Colorado and Utah. It is situated at the confluence of the Green River and the Yampa River. This geographical location adds to the uniqueness of the site, providing a picturesque backdrop for the exploration of the ancient world.
The fossils at the Dinosaur National Monument are surrounded by a rock layer known as the "Morrison Formation". This is a bed of sandstone and conglomerate of alluvial or fluvial origin, dating back to the Jurassic period, approximately 150 million years ago. This geological feature provides a fascinating insight into the environment in which these ancient creatures once lived.
The dinosaur bone deposits at the Dinosaur National Monument were discovered in the year 1909 by Earl Douglass. Douglass was a paleontologist working for the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. His discovery has since opened up a world of knowledge about the prehistoric era and the creatures that inhabited it.
Nature & Natural History Animals Geology
Monday | 9:00 – 16:00 |
Tuesday | 9:00 – 16:00 |
Wednesday | 9:00 – 16:00 |
Thursday | 9:00 – 16:00 |
Friday | 9:00 – 16:00 |
Saturday | 9:00 – 16:00 |
Sunday | 9:00 – 16:00 |
The Quarry Visitor Center is open year-round with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. Our Standard Hours, effective daily in Spring and Fall, are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. These hours change seasonally in Summer and Winter (see the seasonal exceptions below for specific dates).
11625 E 1500 S, Jensen
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Quarry Visitor Center - Dinosaur National Monument has 1 rating.
The Quarry Visitor Center at Dinosaur National Monument in Jensen, United States, offers an impressive and educational experience for dinosaur enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The center's main attraction is the quarry exhibit hall, which houses a large wall of exposed dinosaur fossils in situ. Visitors can observe over 1,500 dinosaur bones still embedded in the rock, providing a rare opportunity to see these prehistoric remains in their original setting.
The museum effectively combines informative displays with interactive elements, making it engaging for both adults and children. Knowledgeable rangers are often available to answer questions and provide additional insights about the fossils and the area's geological history. The air-conditioned building offers a comfortable environment for viewing the exhibits, which is especially appreciated during hot summer months.
While the center itself is relatively compact, it serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the wider Dinosaur National Monument. Some visitors note that the experience can be somewhat brief if you're only visiting the center, but it's generally seen as well worth the trip, especially when combined with other activities in the park.
On the downside, accessibility can be an issue for some visitors, as reaching certain viewpoints may require climbing stairs. Additionally, some guests mention that the gift shop is rather small with a limited selection of souvenirs.
Overall, the Quarry Visitor Center provides a solid educational experience and a unique opportunity to view dinosaur fossils in their original location. It's particularly recommended for families with children interested in paleontology and natural history.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.