The Gray Fossil Site, located at Hands On! Discovery Center, is a place where visitors can get up close with an active fossil dig site. Scientists believe that the site was formed by an underground limestone cave that collapsed and created a sinkhole, leaving a vast fossil deposit that dates back 5 million years. Hundreds of plant and animal fossils have been unearthed, including saber tooth cat, alligator, tapir, rhinoceros, short-faced bear, red panda, and a 10-ton mastodon. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities, including dioramas, labs, and interactive displays. While the majority of the museum is geared towards children, adults without kids can also enjoy the history and fossil exhibits. The site also offers guided tours that provide explanations about the site's history and the work of the paleontologists. Visitors have described the Gray Fossil Site as a fun and educational day trip, with something for all ages. The museum is well-worth a visit for those interested in ancient North American natural history, and it offers a unique opportunity to see an active fossil dig site up close.
Awesome place that both young and old will enjoy. Tons of cool exhibits, activities, tours and videos to learn about dinosaurs and our region. The staff is super nice, educated and always willing to answer questions.
April 2026
This place was fantastic! Great place to bring kids and family to go check out they had this whole section that you could do science work and build and then they had a really cool sandpit that you could build topography. Highly recommend! And you can even see the dig site from the upstairs and see people digging from more... read full comment
March 2026
This is a GREAT MUSEUM! My husband and I visited this wonderful place. Lots of prehistoric bones! We learned so much. If you like learning this is the perfect place to visit. Great for the whole family!
