This Dinosaur Garden Adventure In Nebraska Is A Roaring Good Time
By Delana Lefevers|Published April 10, 2019
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
Did you know that no dinosaur bones have ever been discovered in Nebraska? That didn’t stop 20 life-size dinosaur sculptures from showing up in Omaha’s Lauritzen Gardens this year – but you’ll have to hurry if you want to see them before they go extinct once again.
Starting in the main building, you'll see some indications of the adventure you're about to experience.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Start out along the path and you'll soon encounter the first of the huge, impressive visitors.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
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While you're in the company of dinosaurs, you'll have to follow a few ground rules. Stay on the path so you won't be trampled...
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Don't attempt to ride the dinos...
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
And whatever you do, don't try to feed them. That's a good way to lose a hand.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
You'll have to keep your eyes open to spot them all. Some are rather little and easy to miss if you aren't paying attention.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Every dinosaur has an informational placard explaining its size and behaviors. It's informative as well as entertaining, just like most of the special exhibits here at Lauritzen Gardens.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
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Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
In addition to life-size dinosaurs, there are a few recreated bones and fossils throughout the gardens.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
You may also notice signs on some of the plants proclaiming "I have prehistoric roots." These plant species have been around for eons, and we can still enjoy them today.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Ask at the admissions desk and you can pick up a paper listing all of the dinosaur sculptures. Check them all off and feel like a real adventurer!
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Rumor has it that there's a Barbasol can hidden somewhere on the grounds. If you're a Jurassic Park fan, you'll understand the significance.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
The impressively realistic dinosaur sculptures were created by artist Guy Darrough and placed into jungle-like landscapes carefully created by garden staff.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
In addition to the prehistoric sculptures and plants, you'll also find dinosaur-related activities. Dig for "fossils," play a giant prehistoric game of Connect Four, and lots more.
Delana Lefevers for Only In Your State
The Dinosaur UpROAR event began on January 17 and goes through May 12, 2019. You can see it yourself at Lauritzen Gardens, located at 100 Bancroft St, Omaha, NE 68108. The display is included with regular garden admission. Go here for more information about the display and the artist responsible for the incredible sculptures.
