Kentucky has a plethora of fantastic national and state parks to choose from, but when most people think of our state’s parks, the first thing that comes to mind is trees, flowers, and chirping birds. What doesn’t come to mind is a place where life-size dinosaurs gaze at you while you eat. But you can have this unique experience and visit dinosaurs in Kentucky at this one-of-a-kind park. Dinosaur World in Cave City is a dinosaur park in Kentucky that blatantly breaks the “normal” view of parks in our state, and is the ultimate day trip in Kentucky for families and visitors of all ages.

When you visit Cave City many people are heading to our incredible national park...
Dinosaur World, Kentucky/Facebook
Mammoth Cave is a big attraction. But, before you get there you can see another pretty big attraction from Hwy 65. Life-size dinosaurs loom over the tree tops, a short distance away at Dinosaur World in Kentucky.
Dinosaur World was the dream of Christer Svensson, a Swedish businessman who moved to Florida in the early 90s. The first Dinosaur World was opened there, with all models made by park employees from fiberglass, concrete, and steel.
Dinosaur World, Kentucky/Facebook
Visitors have more than 20 acres of paved pathways and exhibits to explore.
Greg Spicer/GoogleReviews
The park appeals to all ages.
Dinosaur World, Kentucky/Facebook
You have some great trails that nature enthusiasts can hike around. You will run into dinosaurs, but also plenty of nature and "live" animals natural to the area. It is a very relaxing place with well-maintained flora and fauna, along with some elder trees.
Or, take advantage of the many photo ops!
Dinosaur World, Kentucky/Facebook
When it comes to interactive experiences, the park has oodles of fun activities, like a small theater.
Dinosaur World, Kentucky/Facebook

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You'll find a fun dino-themed playground for the little ones near a covered picnic area.
Veronica Johnson/GoogleReviews
There's also a fossil dig area that allows you to dig and see what you find. There are plenty of fossils to be uncovered, including shark teeth, shells, claws, and more.
Dinosaur World, Kentucky/Facebook
The Dino Gem dig is much the same. You can pan and try your own luck for natural stones and minerals, or buy a bag that already has some beauties in it.
Dinosaur World, Kentucky/Facebook
Dinosaur World is the only dinosaur museum of its kind in Kentucky.
Kathy Stilz/GoogleReviews
You can check out the inside museum to get out of the elements. They have a nice variety of both real and faux fossils that were cast from real bones. There is information beside each exhibit that explains what it was, where the fossils are normally found, and answers to standard questions.
You'll walk away feeling like a real paleontologist with all of your new-found knowledge!
Sandra Blackledge/GoogleReviews
And don't worry, if sharp teeth aren't your thing you'll still find plenty of other prehistoric surprises in store here.
LastStraw/GoogleReviews
Add this fantastic dinosaur park to your KY bucket list, and don't forget to bring a camera!
When paying a visit to Dinosaur World, tickets come in a few different packages and annual options, as well as day passes.
Dinosaur World/GoogleReivews
Some, like the Excavation tickets, include the park, museum, and one of the excavation experiences. Others only include the park and museum. For the most up-to-date pricing information, visit the Dinosaur World website.

Dinosaur World in Kentucky is quite possibly the most unusual park in the state! You’ll see numerous varieties of our prehistoric friends, and even get a chance for a rare gem or fossil souvenir. Please note that there is no food available for purchase, but there is an abundance of nice places to enjoy a picnic with friends or family. It’s even leashed dog friendly!

Have you ever visited this fantastic dinosaur park in Cave City?

For more opportunities to “discover” dinosaurs in Kentucky, check out our state’s treasured Big Bone Lick State Historic Site. Make a weekend of it by booking a local vacation rental nearby!

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Dinosaur Park in Kentucky

Chris Dodge | April 01, 2023

Where can you find dinosaurs in Kentucky?

Although they are extinct there are a few museums and attractions that feature dinosaurs:

 

What museum has the best dinosaur exhibit in Kentucky?

To see manmade dinosaurs and exhibits featuring these prehistoric giants, you really have two options in Kentucky. Dinosaur World, as explained above, has an incredible outdoor museum, and also offers more to see indoors. The other place is the Creation Museum in Petersburg. While dinosaurs are not the focus here, they do have an entire section dedicated to them.

Did dinosaurs live in Kentucky?

Scientists do believe that dinosaurs once roamed the Bluegrass State, which of course looked very different way back then. During the Jurassic Period, Kentucky was abundant with plant life, which made for a great habitat for dinosaurs of all sorts.

Are there dinosaur fossils in Kentucky?

There are dinosaur fossils in Kentucky, and many have been discovered. One of the best places to learn about this time period in Kentucky is at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site in Union. Here you'll find a small museum with many fossils and hiking trails that take you back through time.

What are the best dinosaur attractions in Kentucky?

The best dinosaur attractions in Kentucky include:

  • Dinosaur World
  • The Creation Museum
  • Big Bone Lick State Historic Site.

 

You might enjoy checking out some of the Bluegrass State's other renowned parks and adventures too.

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Dinosaur World, 711 Mammoth Cave Rd, Cave City, KY 42127, USA