10 Awesome Dino-mite Dinosaur Places in Orlando for Kids
Young children tend to go through periods of being obsessed with a particular thing or interest. The most common fascinations are vehicles (car, truck, bugs,etc.), with dinosaurs a close second. A few years back, my eldest son was in his ‘everything-must-be dinosaur’ phase. This mommy blogger isn’t claiming to be a paleontologist or anything like that. However, I am kind of a parental expert when it comes to family-friendly dinosaur-themed. So, here are the best dinosaur places in Orlando.
And summer is the perfect time to sink your teeth into dinosaur activities and attractions. International Dinosaur Day is May 21 and National Dinosaur Day is June 1. Here’s where to celebrate both dino-mite holidays with your darling dinos in Orlando.
In Case You’re Interested:
>> Super Fun Family Restaurants
>> Cheap Family Fun
>> Orlando Hotels with Waterparks
Best Dinosaur Places in Orlando
1. Florida Museum of Natural History
3215 Hull Rd., Powell Hall, UF Cultural Plaza, Gainesville, FL 32611
Thanks to its iconic mascot, gators come to mind when one thinks about the University of Florida. But this college town’s museum is known for other creatures too. The Florida Museum of Natural History has tons of dinosaur fossils that date back 65 million years. Plan a dino daytrip!
2. Orlando Science Center
777 E. Princeton St., Orlando, FL 32803
There is so much for families to explore at the Orlando Science Center. One of the most popular exhibits is called Dino Digs. This extraordinary showcase features authentic fossils as well as life-like replicas, making it among the coolest dinosaur places in Orlando.
Hands-on learners will especially love the sensory-stimulating Dig Pit. Imaginations are sure to rawr and soar in this immersive space. Also, the Orlando Science Center is a fun birthday party venue for dinosaur fans since one of the four theme choices is “Fantastic Jurassic.”
3. The Dinosaur Store
250 W. SR 520, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Don’t let the name fool you. The Dinosaur Store is more than a souvenir shop. It’s home to the Museum of Dinosaurs. Prepare to brave three areas on your visit. It’s definiately a must-do in Cocoa Beach.
First, explore the second and third floors of the museum, totaling 20,000 square feet of prehistoric dinosaur stuff, plus ancient cultural relics. This includes fossils, cast skeletons, a mineral cave and more.
Next, pop over to the Adventure Zone. In this interactive space, find arcade games, science stations and live reptile exhibits. Lastly, check out the gift shop. Because, why not? Everyone needs another stuffy….
4. Dinosaur World
5145 Harvey Tew Rd., Plant City, FL 33565
Beyond Orlando’s theme park district, venture a bit south on I-4 to Dinosaur World. This destination features a winding path amidst assorted plants. Do keep your eyes peeled to spot the prehistoric sculptures.
Dinosaur World also has a fossil dig, gem dig and super fun dino-themed playground. Pack a picnic lunch and bring Fido on a leash.
5. Jurassic Quest
Traveling convention – multiple Florida locations
Jurassic Quest claims to be the “#1 dinosaur experience in North America.” Aside from well-made animatronic dinosaurs, this traveling family-friendly convention has unique things for kids to do. This includes riding a dinosaur!
There’s also a live show featuring baby dinosaurs and their human trainers. Cute! Plus, crafts, bounce houses and digs.
Jurassic Quest has several Florida stops schedule for the summer 2024. The closest option is Daytona Beach (at the Ocean Center). Or travel to Fort Meyers, Jacksonville, Tampa, Miami or West Palm Beach.
6. LuminoCity Dino Safari
Florida Mall, 8001 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32809
Another traveling experience, LuminoCity Dino Safari is another temporary attraction featuring animatronic dinosaurs, as well as interactive exhibits. LuminoCity’s Dino Safari is scheduled to be at the Florida Mall starting May 17 through June 16, 2024.
The attraction will feature two exhibition areas, Dino Safari and Ice Age Adventure. In the latter, visitors will be up-close to animated dinosaurs as well as lit ice age animal sculptures.
Like other dinosaur places in Orlando, this attraction will be outdoors so do plan (for heat) accordingly.
7. Jurassic World Suites at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
6300 Hollywood Way, Orlando, FL 32819
Orlando has endless possibilities when it comes to amazing hotels and rentals. For your next staycation, consider booking the Jurassic World Suites at Loews Royal Pacific Resort.
The theme is executed perfectly. From the giant dino footprints on the floor to the wall mural to the bold bedding. Slumber like a stegosaurus here!
8. T-Rex Cafe
1676 E. Buena Vista Dr., Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Perhaps among the most fun restaurants at Disney Springs, T-Rex Café is worth battling the tourist crowds. Sure, the menu is standard. But the engaging atmosphere is anything but.
It’s wise to book reservations. Still, if you must wait, there are plenty of ways to pass the time. There’s a free fossil dig, a stocked gift shop and an abundance of dinosaur sculptures to appreciate around the large dining room.
Dinosaurs Places in Orlando within the Theme Parks
Not surprisingly, both Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Studios weave dinosaur themes into their parks. When visiting these destinations, check out:
9. DinoLand U.S.A. at Animal Kingdom
This includes the Dinosaur thrill ride, The Boneyard Playground, Cretaceous Trail, Dino-Sue, Chester and Hester’s Dino-Rama, TriceraTop Spin and Fossil Fun Games.
Sadly there portion of the park will be closing in the future to prepare for a new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
10. Jurassic World at Islands of Adventure
The attractions include Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Jurassic Park River Adventure, Pteranodon Flyers and Camp Jurassic. Plus, there are dino-themed quick-serves and stores.
Have a dino-mite time visiting the dinosaur places on our list. And enjoy celebrating International Dinosaur Day and National Dinosaur Day.
