Dino-mite Weekend

Imagine: you can walk among giant, life-size dinosaurs in a natural lush setting…right here in Kentucky! If you’ve traveled I-65 near Cave City, you’ve probably seen the large dinosaur standing near Exit 53 inviting you to visit.

On September 11 and 12, you’ll have a special reason to stop by and check out these ancient creatures of the past. Dinosaur World is celebrating with an event called Dino-Mite Weekend. During this weekend, residents from Barren County and the surrounding counties of Allen, Edmondson, Hart, Metcalfe, Monroe, and Warren can visit the park for $1 as a “thank you” for support during the park’s first year.

Since opening in June 2003, the park has had more than 42,000 visitors. The park consists of an open-air museum and Dinosaur Walk of 100 life-size dinosaurs (some models up to 80 feet in length), and an indoor, air-conditioned Prehistoric Museum that opened this June, featuring 30 exhibits of prehistoric artifacts.

The park is very kid-friendly, but adults will find it interesting and educational as well. In addition to visiting the museum and walking among the life-size dinosaurs in natural tree settings with pathways and interpretive signs, you can also participate in a Fossil Dig, where you can search for authentic fossils in a paleontological setting, spend some time in the Video Cave to watch a video about dinosaurs, and visit the dinosaur-themed playground and gift shop.

No food service is available on the premises, so you are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch or bring your own grill to the picnic area, which also has a covered area.

If you’re not a Barren or surrounding county resident, the admission this weekend is the normal rate of $9.75 adult, $8.75 seniors, and $7.75 for children ages 3-12. Special pricing for school groups and other groups of 12 or more is available when arranged in advance.

Dinosaur World is open all year, except Christmas Day, from 8:30 a.m. until sunset. For more information, call (270) 773-4345, or go online to www.dinoworld.net.