Glowing lights, festive décor, and…dinosaurs?!?! You might think the three have nothing in common, but that’s not entirely true. Dino Lites 2023 combines all three. This amazing dinosaur-themed wonderland has the best Christmas lights in Arkansas and it's as magical as you'd expect!
This adventure begins at the Mid-America Science Museum.
The museum is located in Hot Springs and is home to over 100 exhibits, including Dino Trek.
Dino Trek was the state’s first exhibit of its kind.
You'll really feel as if you're embarking upon a stand-alone hiking trail, because Dino Trek winds through 21 beautiful wooded acres surrounding the museum.
Dino Trek is a great place to visit all year long.
But it's even better during the Christmas season in Arkansas, though, when it's set aglow for the museum’s yearly light show, Dino Lites.
The display made its debut in 2018.
Ever since then, it's quickly grown into a favorite place to spend Christmas in Arkansas, which isn't surprising. It really is a truly unique event!
Folks come from all around the region and further afield to enjoy this magical light display.
It's easy to get here too. Hot Springs is only about an hour away from Little Rock, the state capital.
Putting a spin on classic Christmas displays, Dino Lites is centered around decked-out dinosaurs.
Once here, you'll see why it is arguably one of the, if not THE, best Christmas light displays in Arkansas!
Local groups, clubs, and business owners do all the decorating.
For locals, it is a favorite annual community activity that really brings people closer together.
Participants here start by "adopting" a dinosaur.
Then they use lights and festive décor to create glowing yuletide scenes.
This is such a great place for a special date night or fun with friends.
Many people prefer drive-through holiday light displays, but here it's worth braving the chilly weather to get up close and personal with these amazing creatures.
For a special treat, visit Dino Lites on opening night for the Grand Lighting Ceremony.
Who can think of a better little family getaway in Arkansas?
So, how much is it to attend Dino Lites?
Well, that's one of the best parts. It's included with general museum admission, so you can explore both the display AND the museum for one price. (Side note: overall it is one of the best museums in the state).
It's no exaggeration when we say Dino Lites is Jurassic Park meets Christmas Vacation!
As far as holiday traditions in Arkansas go, this one is widely known and much loved.
So, did you know about this holiday event? Have you ever been to see the dinosaurs at the Mid-America Science Museum at any time of the year? If so, when? And how was it? We’d love for you to share your experiences and your prehistoric photos with us!
If you want to know more about Dino Lites, you can visit the official website of the Mid-America Science Museum or the Facebook page of the Mid-America Science Museum.
This isn’t the only fun thing to do in the state. Check out some of these haunted spots that are enticing year-round! And for more fun in Arkansas, Airbnb Experiences has a lot of exciting options among their listings.
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