When you think of Iowa history, you probably think of the pioneers, Native Americans, and earliest settlers here on the prairie. There’s one place in Iowa City that will take you even farther back in time, to the days before dinosaurs even roamed the earth. Visit this incredible slice of history to step back in time nearly 400 million years and see what it was like on the bottom of the ocean floor.

The Devonian Fossil Gorge in Iowa City is one of the most unique places in the Hawkeye State.
TripAdvisor / Retired_Parrothead
You can find this incredible piece of history at 2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd. NE, Iowa City, IA 52240
The story behind the gorge is fascinating - it wasn't until the Flood of 1993 that this fossil bed was discovered.
Facebook / Devonian Fossil Gorge
In 2008, when water in Coralville flooded over the emergency spillway, more of the 375 million year old fossil bed was unearthed.
Flickr / Alan Light
Now, Iowans can walk across this ancient ocean floor and discover thousands of fossils preserved at their feet!
TripAdvisor / Carolyn H.

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At the entrance, you'll find tidbits and stories behind the history of these ancient creatures.
TripAdvisor / Amit V.
Be sure to bring a guide with you, or take a photo of the one at the entrance. The numbers will tell you what each fossil once was!
TripAdvisor / Amit V.
It's incredible to imagine that our own Iowa was once the bottom of the ocean, and that after 400 million years, these fossils are still here.
TripAdvisor / sjsjedi
Fossilized coral is probably the easiest to spot, and it's beautiful. Can you picture what this scene once looked like?
TripAdvisor / Poprox21
The Devonian Fossil Gorge is a great place for a day trip, and both kids and adults will be mesmerized by the history you can experience first-hand.
Google Local / Brag Beggs

The Devonian Fossil Gorge is free to visit, and everyone in the family will enjoy exploring this incredible park. For more fossil hunting in Iowa, visit the Fossil and Prairie Center in Rockford, where you’ll find fossils that are over 300 million years old lying around in the sand!

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