The Grand Rapids Public Museum is now showing an exhibit exploring the mysterious world of dinosaurs. Featuring a variety of visual aids including giant animatronic dinosaurs and rare fossils, Dinosaurs Unearthed lets visitors learn why dinosaurs are now thought to be the ancestors of modern birds, even though they had previously been assumed to be the ancestors of today’s reptiles. As part of the discussion of the relationship between dinosaurs and birds, there is a particular emphasis on feathered fossils.

Dinosaurs Unearthed is a sizable exhibit with numerous stations to entertain and inform visitors of all ages. A pair of interactive controllers allow guests to adjust the positions of some of the animatronic dinosaurs, learning about the ways in which the ancient creatures are thought to have moved. Other stations allow people to learn about particular aspects of dinosaurs, such as their anatomy and digestive processes. A dig site allows children to experience the thrill of hunting for fossils. All in all, there are 15 animatronic dinosaurs and dozens of fossils.

Tickets & Dates

Dinosaurs Unearthed is showing in the Grand Rapids Public Museum until April 27, 2014. Tickets cost $12 for adults, $11 for seniors and $7 for children. Adults with memberships at the museum can buy tickets for $2 each, while child members can enter for free. General admission to the museum is included in the ticket price. Tickets can be ordered by phone at 616-456-3977 or online at http://grmuseum.org. A $3 fee is added for any online or phone purchases. Other related events at the museum include Dino Late Nights, in which the museum will be open until 8 p.m. on selected dates with meal deals available at the museum’s cafe, and a gala fundraiser called “A Jurassic Affair” being held on Nov. 14. The museum opens at 9 a.m. every day except Sunday, when it opens at 12 p.m. It normally closes at 5 p.m. every day except Tuesday, when it closes at 8 p.m.

Dinosaurs Unearthed offers an impressive range of experiences for anyone interested in learning more about dinosaurs and the latest findings regarding their relationship with modern wildlife.