The Royal Tyrrell Museum is a premier center for paleontological research and a top attraction for those interested in dinosaurs and prehistoric life. Located in Drumheller, Alberta, it’s nestled in an area rich in fossil-bearing strata.
Key Information about the Museum
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Midland Provincial Park, 6 km northwest of Drumheller, AB, on Hwy. 838. |
| Contact | For North America (outside Alberta): 1-888-440-4240; In Alberta: 310-0000 then 403-823-7707; Outside North America: 1-403-823-7707. |
| General Inquiries – [email protected]; Bookings – [email protected]. | |
| Parking | Available onsite. |
| Accessibility | Facilities are designed to be accessible. |
| Website | Royal Tyrrell Museum |
Opening Hours and Admission Fees
For your convenience, here are the opening hours and admission fees for the Royal Tyrrell Museum:
Opening Hours
For the convenience of visitors, the museum operates under distinct hours throughout the year:
| Period | Days | Hours | Last Entry | Final Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 15 – August 31 | Daily | 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | 7:30 p.m. | 8:00 p.m. |
| September 1 – May 14 | Tuesday – Sunday | 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. | 3:30 p.m. | 4:00 p.m. |
The museum is closed on Mondays, except for holiday Mondays, during the September 1 to May 14 period. This schedule allows for ample exploration time, ensuring visitors can delve into the exhibits at their leisure. While advance booking isn’t mandatory, it’s advisable, particularly during peak seasons, as walk-up admissions are subject to availability.
Admission Fees
The Royal Tyrrell Museum offers various admission categories tailored to different age groups:
- Adults (18 – 64 years): $21.00;
- Seniors (65+ years): $14.00;
- Youth (7 – 17 years): $10.00;
- Children (6 and under): Free (ticket required);
- Family Rate (2 adults & their children 7 – 17 years, up to 8 people): $50.00;
- Members: Free admission.
All prices are inclusive of tax, ensuring transparency and ease of payment for visitors. Families can benefit from the discounted Family Rate, automatically applied during online checkout when purchasing tickets.
Additional Information
In addition to standard admission, the museum offers discounts for specific pass holders, including the CFOne card, Canoo participants, and EAHP pass holders. However, individuals eligible for these discounts must purchase full-price tickets online in advance and present their pass/card at the entrance on the day of their visit to receive the applicable refund.
Brief History and Features
The Royal Tyrrell Museum traces its origins back to 1884, when Joseph Burr Tyrrell unearthed a remarkable 70-million-year-old carnivorous dinosaur skull, sparking the foundation of this esteemed institution. Officially opened on September 25, 1985, the museum was later bestowed with the prestigious “royal” designation in 1990, a testament to its significant contributions to the field of paleontology.
Originally established as a scientific facility, it has since transformed into a comprehensive institution featuring a vast public gallery, captivating visitors with its extensive collection of fossils and immersive exhibits. With an annual attendance exceeding 430,000 visitors, the Royal Tyrrell Museum continues to serve as a beacon of scientific discovery and public education, showcasing the rich history and wonders of prehistoric life to audiences from around the globe.
Exhibits and Collections
Special Features
Our museum offers a range of special features aimed at providing visitors with an immersive and educational experience. From interactive displays to live demonstrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn from.
Interactive Displays and Educational Exhibits
The Royal Tyrrell Museum offers an impressive range of interactive displays and educational exhibits. These exhibits allow visitors to engage in hands-on activities that explore paleontology and dinosaur science. For example, the ‘Create your own dinosaur’ exhibit lets visitors design their own dinosaur species, fostering a deeper understanding of dinosaur anatomy, behavior, and adaptation. This interactive approach entertains while also educating visitors about prehistoric life and fossil study processes.
Paleontology Demonstrations
In addition to interactive exhibits, the Royal Tyrrell Museum offers live demonstrations by paleontology staff members. These demonstrations provide visitors with a firsthand look at fossil excavation techniques and the scientific methods used to uncover and study ancient remains. By observing experts in action, visitors gain insight into the fascinating world of paleontological research and the challenges involved in piecing together the mysteries of the past.
Facilities for Visitors’ Convenience
The Royal Tyrrell Museum prioritizes visitor comfort and convenience by providing a range of facilities on-site. These amenities ensure that visitors can fully enjoy their experience at the museum without any inconvenience.
- Café: Provides a variety of food and beverage options catering to different tastes and dietary preferences;
- Picnic Area: Ideal for those bringing their own food, allowing for outdoor dining amidst scenic surroundings;
- Playground (Cenovus Paleo Play Park): Designed for children, featuring dinosaur-themed structures and activities;
- Restrooms: Clean and accessible facilities, including restrooms for individuals with disabilities.
Visit Planning
Royal Tyrrell Museum is suitable for families and educational trips alike. With interactive and informative exhibits catering to all ages, visitors can expect an enriching experience. Additionally, keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts that the museum may offer, providing added value to your visit. For those unable to visit in person, virtual tours offer a convenient alternative, ensuring access to the museum’s treasures from anywhere in the world.
Prohibited Items
While the Royal Tyrrell Museum may not have an exhaustive list of prohibited items, visitors should be aware of certain items that are typically discouraged or restricted in museums:
| Prohibited Item | Reason | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Large Bags and Backpacks | Prevent accidental damage to exhibits and ensure visitor safety | Use coat check facilities if available |
| Tripods and Selfie Sticks | Pose hazard to exhibits and visitors | Use may be restricted within museum premises |
| Pets | Hygiene and safety concerns | Only service animals allowed |
| Sharp Objects | Prevent accidental harm to exhibits and visitors | Prohibited |
| Chemicals and Hazardous Materials | Risk of damage to exhibits and safety hazards | Refrain from bringing into the museum |
| Laser Pointers | Disruptive to visitors and potential harm to artifacts | Discouraged within museum premises |
| Large Umbrellas | Obstruct view of exhibits and pose tripping hazards | Use compact umbrellas or raincoats in inclement weather |