Dig Through Tennessee History At The Gray Fossil Site & Museum, A Hands-On Children’s Museum In Tennessee

The state of Tennessee is known for its incredible natural history, and there's nothing like the Gray Fossil Site & Museum when it comes to ancient education. Here, you'll have the chance to experience the natural world of the state before humans were even a blip on the radar. Who knew that such a rich deposit of fossils existed in the Volunteer State? It's pretty incredible for folks of all ages. Learn more about it below, and perhaps plan a trip for yourself.

The Gray Fossil Site is located in Gray, Tennessee, and is known for its role as an active archeological dig site that puts ancient fossil finds on display.

The active dig site is perhaps one of the most well-known in the state. It's family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, which makes it easy to bring the whole family.

The vast fossil deposit in the area is considered to have been formed when a limestone cave deep beneath the ground collapsed. The sinkhole left in its place swallowed hundreds of plant and animal fossils.

The fossils of alligator, tapir, red panda, the 10-ton mastodon, and even a saber-tooth cat have been found at the site.

Did you know that visitors can experience the dig themselves? it's true! The Discovery Center allows folks an up-close experience on the dig from May to October during good weather.

You'll have the chance to watch workers in the lab where they're reconstructing fossil finds. It's neat to watch as scientists clean away the dirt of so many years ago, revealing ancient skeletal structures.

Have you ever been to the Gray Fossil Site? Will you be visiting?

You can learn more about the Gray Fossil Site with a visit to its official Facebook page or website.

Have you ever taken a carriage ride through the Tennessee mountains? You may just want to add it to your bucket list!