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...

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.

Visitors have more than 20 acres of paved pathways and exhibits to explore.

The park appeals to all ages.

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!

When it comes to interactive experiences, the park has oodles of fun activities, like a small theater.

You'll find a fun dino-themed playground for the little ones near a covered picnic area.

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.

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 is the only dinosaur museum of its kind in Kentucky.

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!

And don't worry, if sharp teeth aren't your thing you'll still find plenty of other prehistoric surprises in store here.

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.

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!