Dinosaurs have fascinated people ever since their skeletal remains were unearthed. Early discoveries fed legends about giants and other mythical creatures. The first scientifically described dinosaur was megalosaurus, in 1824. Florida museums have continued to create exhibits on dinosaurs and their lives as paleontologists and researchers uncover information. People of all ages enjoy visiting museums, where they have the opportunity to view replica structures and skeletons of this mysterious species, with some having hands-on exhibits.
Dinosaur World is located in Plant City, Florida, and claims to be the world's largest dinosaur attraction. It showcases more than 150 life-sized dinosaur recreations placed in an outdoor setting, the Skeleton Garden. Each dinosaur in the exhibit is clearly marked with information about the species, and a paleontologist work site allows visitors to obtain an up-close view of how dinosaur bones are extracted from the ground. Children can dig in their own sand work site. Other highlights of Dinosaur World include an indoor museum, theater, and outdoor picnic area. Dinosaur World is open daily. There is no food service available at the museum.
Dinosaur World
5145 Harvey Tew Rd.
Exit 17, Interstate 4
Plant City, FL
(813) 707-9776
dinoworld.net
The Florida Museum of Science and History in Jacksonville has an allosaurus dinosaur attraction. The dinosaur replica on exhibit is the main focus in the Prehistoric Park area of the museum. The predatory allosaurus lived in the late Jurassic period and has been a popular dinosaur type in many movies. The museum is open daily except for major holidays.
Florida Museum of Science and History
1025 Museum Circle
Jacksonville, FL
(904) 396-6674
themosh.org
The Museum of Science and Industry, located in Tampa, has a dinosaur collection that focuses on large-sized sauropod dinosaurs. The lobby of the museum displays several sauropod skeleton recreations in a life-sized exhibit that has a total combined length of approximately 150 feet. The museum offers children a chance to learn with dinosaur-themed birthday parties. Each guest of the party has the opportunity to make a dinosaur tooth fossil cast while learning more about fossil life spans. The party also teaches children the job duties of a paleontologist. The museum is open 365 days a year and is located one mile from Busch Gardens.
Museum of Science and Industry
4801 East Fowler Ave.
Tampa, FL
(813) 987-6300
mosi.org
