Dinosaur World Florida: A Prehistoric Fun Adventure Awaits You in Beautiful and Sunny Plant City

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Explore the wonders of prehistoric times at Dinosaur World Florida, a unique attraction nestled in Plant City. Here, you can wander among over 200 life-sized dinosaur models set in a beautiful garden environment. This place offers a great mix of fun and education, perfect for families and dinosaur enthusiasts alike.

At Dinosaur World, you will find an indoor museum filled with fascinating exhibits and animatronics that bring these ancient creatures to life. You can also enjoy interactive activities such as fossil digs and a playground, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking to learn more about the history and evolution of dinosaurs or simply enjoy a day outdoors, Dinosaur World Florida provides an immersive experience. Located conveniently between Orlando and Tampa, it stands out as Central Florida’s only attraction dedicated to these giants of the past. Click here to purchase tickets!

History of Dinosaur World

Dinosaur World in Florida began with fossil discoveries that ignited a passion for prehistoric life and eventually led to the construction of a vibrant theme park.

Discovery of Florida Fossils

The history of Dinosaur World in Florida is closely tied to significant fossil discoveries made in the state. Fossils have been uncovered across Florida, revealing layers of prehistoric life. These discoveries include ancient sea creatures and dinosaur remains, providing a glimpse into the region’s distant past.

Florida’s rich fossil record inspired the creation of Dinosaur World. By showcasing replicas and real fossils, the park pays homage to the state’s geological history. Today, the Prehistoric Museum within Dinosaur World displays many of these finds, helping visitors connect with ancient Florida.

Evolution of the Park

Dinosaur World aims to blend education and entertainment, opening its doors in Plant City in November 1998. The park features over 200 life-size dinosaur sculptures, meticulously crafted to mirror their prehistoric counterparts. Sculptor Christer Svensson created these impressive models, which are located throughout the 20-acre jungle landscape.

From its beginnings, Dinosaur World has grown substantially. New exhibits and attractions have been added, making it an interactive experience. Activities like fossil sifting and dino digging invite you to become amateur paleontologists. This blend of education and fun has solidified Dinosaur World as a top destination in Florida, attracting families and enthusiasts alike.

Exhibits Overview

Dinosaur World Florida offers an unforgettable experience with its outdoor museum attractions, indoor exhibits, and life-size dinosaur displays, featuring a mix of animatronic dinosaurs, statues, and real artifacts.

Outdoor Museum Attractions

The outdoor museum at Dinosaur World features over 200 life-size dinosaur statues set in a natural environment. You can explore different dinosaur species and learn about their habitats through informative plaques and guided tours.

Interactive activities like the Fossil Dig let you uncover replica fossils, while the Boneyard allows you to unearth a full dinosaur skeleton from the sand. At the Dino Gem Mine, you can pan for real minerals and gemstones. The Exploration Cave offers guided tours led by a paleontologist, providing deeper insights into dinosaur history.

Indoor Museum Exhibits

The indoor exhibits showcase an array of real artifacts, including genuine fossils and ancient bones. Detailed displays provide a deep dive into paleontology, illustrating how dinosaurs lived, hunted, and survived.

Animatronic dinosaurs add a dynamic touch, giving you a chance to see lifelike dinosaur movements up close. Informative videos and interactive screens make the learning experience engaging. You can also interact with exhibits that reveal the process of fossilization and the tools used by paleontologists.

Life-Size Dinosaur Displays

Life-size dinosaur displays form the heart of Dinosaur World. Spread throughout the park are meticulously crafted statues representing various species, each positioned in realistic settings.

The sheer scale and detail of these statues make for a dramatic display, capturing the imagination of visitors of all ages. You’ll encounter famous dinosaurs like the Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, and Brachiosaurus, making it feel like you’re stepping back in time. These exhibits are perfect for photos and offer a tangible connection to the prehistoric world.

Experiences for Children

Dinosaur World Florida offers a range of fun and educational experiences for children. From looking for gems to digging for fossils, your kids will have a blast while learning about dinosaurs.

Dino Gem Mine Adventure

Your children can participate in the Dino Gem Mine Adventure, a hands-on activity where they sift through sand to find gemstones. Kids are given a bag of mining rough to wash through the water to reveal hidden treasures. This activity is especially fun because it combines elements of play with the discovery of minerals like amethyst, rose quartz, and pyrite.

Excavation Activities

The Fossil Dig is another big hit. Here, kids can dig through a sand pit with brushes and tools to uncover replica fossils. They get to keep three real fossils, which include shark teeth, trilobites, and gastropods. This activity is designed to make them feel like real Paleontologists. The Triviasaurus Rex Game Show is an interactive trivia game where children learn fun and interesting facts about dinosaurs while participating in a family-friendly competition.

Interactive Learning Opportunities

There are many interactive learning opportunities at Dinosaur World Florida. The Playground offers dinosaur-themed structures where younger children can climb and slide. Play Areas are scattered across the park, giving kids plenty of space to let out their energy. There’s also an area specifically for toddlers. Interpretive signs and displays provide interesting facts and stories about the prehistoric creatures they are seeing. There are also scheduled shows and presentations that cover a wide array of dinosaur-related topics.

Here, play meets education, ensuring your children can have a wonderful day surrounded by the fascinating world of dinosaurs.

Visitor Information

Discover key details about visiting Dinosaur World Florida, including ticket prices, operating hours, additional activities, and available amenities to make your visit enjoyable and convenient.

Daily Passes and Discounts

General admission tickets for Dinosaur World Florida are priced as follows:

Adult (13-59): $23.95 plus tax
Senior (60+): $21.95 plus tax

Children (3 – 12): $18.95 plus tax
Children (2 and under): Free

Special discounts are available. Seniors receive a discount, and local hotels like Hampton Inn offer 15% off room rates if you mention Dinosaur World. Check for combo tickets that might include a lucky strike bag at the Dino Gem store.

Annual Passes

Annual passes are good for one year and don’t include additional activities.

Adult (13-59): $59.95 plus tax
Senior (60+): $54.95 plus tax

Children (3 – 12): $49.95 plus tax
Children (2 and under): Free

Excavation Passes

These include Admission, Fossil Dig, Lucky Strike Bag at the Dino Gem Excavation, & Train tickets.

Adult (13+): $38.95 plus tax
Children (3-12): $33.95 plus tax

Additional Activities

Tickets are included in the Excavation Pass. Admission into the park is required to redeem.

Fossil Dig: $3.00 plus tax
Dino Gem Excavation: ranges from $11.00 to $129.00 plus tax
Dino Express Train: $5.00 plus tax

Operating Hours and Best Times to Visit

Dinosaur World operates daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. To avoid crowds, the best times to visit are weekdays during early mornings. This allows you to explore at a leisurely pace. Summertime can be hot, so consider visiting during cooler months or on cloudy days. Always check the weather forecast to ensure a comfortable visit.

Facilities and Accessibility

Dinosaur World offers a variety of facilities to make your visit pleasant:

Parking: Free and spacious, accommodating cars, buses, and RVs.

Food and Drinks: Bring your snacks. There are picnic tables available.
Children’s Activities: Fossil digs, playgrounds, and interactive exhibits.

Additionally, Dinosaur World is autism-friendly with support from the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of South Florida, ensuring a welcoming experience for all visitors.

Educational Programs

Dinosaur World Florida offers various educational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages. These programs provide unique learning opportunities through hands-on activities and guided experiences led by experts in paleontology.

Workshops with Paleontologists

At Dinosaur World Florida, you can attend workshops presented by experienced paleontologists. These sessions allow you to learn directly from experts who study ancient life.

In these workshops, paleontologists explain fossil excavation techniques, discuss different dinosaur species, and share recent discoveries. Kids and adults can ask questions, handle real fossils, and even participate in mock digs.

Workshops are ideal for school trips, offering students an engaging science lesson outside the classroom. These workshops align with educational standards, making them a valuable experience for educational groups. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

Interactive Educational Tours

Dinosaur World Florida also features interactive educational tours. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who take you on a journey through prehistoric times.

During the tours, you will explore life-sized dinosaur models, visit the “Doom of the Dinosaurs” exhibit, and participate in interactive displays. Guides provide detailed explanations about each dinosaur, their habitats, and the extinction events that affected them.

Tours are perfect for school trips and family visits, offering an engaging way to learn about ancient creatures. Groups of 12 or more can benefit from special field trip rates. These tours offer a hands-on learning experience that combines fun with education.

Activities and Events

Dinosaur World Florida offers a variety of engaging activities and special events for visitors of all ages. Highlights include hands-on gemstone and geode cracking activities, as well as seasonal events that bring an extra layer of excitement.

Crack Your Own Geode

One of the most popular activities at Dinosaur World Florida is the chance to crack open your geode. A special Geode Cracker is used to safely break open these fascinating natural formations. Once cracked, you can marvel at the sparkling crystals inside. This activity is both educational and exciting, allowing you to take home a unique souvenir from your visit.

The geode cracking station is designed to be safe and accessible for visitors of all ages. Staff members are always on hand to assist you with the process and to explain more about how geodes are formed. It’s a fantastic way to engage with geology in a hands-on manner.

Special Seasonal Events

Dinosaur World Florida also hosts a variety of special seasonal events throughout the year. These events add an extra layer of fun and often include holiday-themed activities, unique attractions, and special workshops.

For instance, during the Christmas season, you might find holiday decorations and themed events that make the experience even more magical. There’s something different happening each season, so it’s worth checking the event calendar before you plan your visit. These events can provide a new experience even if you’ve visited Dinosaur World before.

In summary, activities like geode cracking and special seasonal events make Dinosaur World Florida a dynamic and ever-changing attraction. Your visit can always offer something new and exciting.

Visitor Tips and Suggestions

Visiting Dinosaur World Florida can be a fun and educational experience. To make the most of your trip, consider the following tips regarding weather and shopping.

Weather Considerations

Florida’s weather can be unpredictable. Summers are hot and humid, with frequent rain and lightning. Bring sunscreen and water to stay hydrated. Check the forecast before your visit and bring a poncho or umbrella for sudden showers.

Strollers are welcome, and it’s best to use one since the park is large. Many walkways are shaded, but plan breaks to rest and cool off. If severe weather hits, temporary shelters are available within the park.

Souvenirs and Memorabilia

Dinosaur World has a well-stocked souvenir shop where you can find everything from T-shirts to dinosaur toys. Save some extra cash for souvenirs as they make great keepsakes.

Consider purchasing a lucky strike bag at the Dino Gem shop, which includes general admission and gem mining experiences. These bags are popular and offer a unique memento. Remember, you might find items specific to the park that aren’t available elsewhere, making your visit even more special.

Planning Your Visit

Dinosaur World Florida offers visitors a unique experience, from family-friendly activities to convenient amenities. Knowing where to stay and where to eat can make your trip even more enjoyable.

Accommodations and Nearby Attractions

Dinosaur World is located in Plant City, Florida. Several nearby hotels and inns offer comfortable lodging options. The Hampton Inn Plant City and Fairfield Inn & Suites are within a short driving distance. If you prefer something more rustic, consider staying at a campsite in the nearby Hillsborough River State Park.

Close to Dinosaur World, you will find other attractions like Edward Medard Park and downtown Plant City, known for its historic charm. Exploring these local spots can add more variety to your trip. Traveling by car is the most convenient option, but ride-sharing services are also available.

Dining and Rest Areas

Within Dinosaur World, several picnic spots and rest areas provide a perfect place for a meal or break. Bringing your food is encouraged here, as the park features designated picnic tables shaded by trees. If you prefer nearby dining, you can explore local eateries in Plant City. Options include Fred’s Market Restaurant for classic Southern food and Hole in One Donuts for a quick snack.

Restrooms are conveniently located throughout the park, ensuring a comfortable visit. Remember to stay hydrated, especially in Florida’s warm climate. Water fountains and vending machines with beverages are also available on-site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find useful information about ticket prices, opening hours, rides, and reviews of Dinosaur World in Florida.

What are the ticket prices for Dinosaur World in Florida?

Ticket prices for Dinosaur World in Florida are as follows: Adults aged 13-59 pay $23.95 plus tax. Seniors aged 60 and above pay $21.95 plus tax. Children between 3 to 12 years old pay $18.95 plus tax. Kids under 2 years old can enter for free.

Can you provide information on the rides available at Dinosaur World Florida?

Dinosaur World in Florida focuses more on educational exhibits and life-size dinosaur models. It does not feature traditional theme park rides. You can expect interactive displays and fossil digs that engage kids and adults alike.

What are the opening hours of Dinosaur World Florida?

Dinosaur World in Florida is generally open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day of the week. These hours may change on holidays and special occasions, so it’s best to check their official website for the most accurate information.

Is the Dinosaur World in Florida appealing to adult visitors?

Dinosaur World is not just for children. Adults who are interested in natural history and paleontology will find the interactive exhibits, life-size dinosaurs, and educational content engaging and enjoyable.

How much time is typically needed to explore Dinosaur World in Florida?

Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring Dinosaur World in Florida. This allows enough time to see the exhibits, participate in interactive activities, and walk through the park.

Are there any reviews available for Dinosaur World Florida?

Dinosaur World in Florida has numerous reviews on sites like Tripadvisor. It is highly rated as the top attraction in Plant City. Visitors often praise the educational value and the impressive dinosaur displays.