Families in Milwaukee are in for a prehistoric treat this summer! From May 21 through October 5, 2025, the Milwaukee County Zoo invites visitors to explore Exploration Dinosaur, an outdoor exhibit that brings the ancient world of dinosaurs to life through more than 20 life-size animatronic creatures and interactive learning stations.
Discover Life-Size Dinosaurs
Located behind the Small Mammals Building, Exploration Dinosaur offers guests a chance to walk among scientifically accurate, animatronic dinosaurs. These impressive displays include fan favorites like the fierce T. Rex, the armor-clad Euoplocephalus, and the plate-backed Stegosaurus. Each dinosaur is accompanied by fascinating facts that will spark curiosity in kids and adults alike.
Some highlights:
- T. Rex: Weighing over 9 tons and stretching up to 42 feet long, the T. Rex lives up to its title as king of the dinosaurs.
- Stegosaurus: Known for its distinctive diamond-shaped back plates, some of which reached 2 feet tall.
- Euoplocephalus: This tank-like plant-eater was covered in armor and wielded a heavy, club-like tail for defense.
Hands-On Learning and Activities
Beyond the impressive animatronic displays, families can dive deeper into discovery at four interactive stations that bring science and imagination together. Whether your child wants to be a paleontologist or simply loves dinosaurs, these activities offer something fun and educational for everyone.
Roar & Explore Wednesdays
For an even more immersive experience, plan your visit on a Wednesday between Memorial Day and Labor Day. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Roar & Explore Wednesdays feature special hands-on activities designed to connect prehistoric life with modern-day animal conservation.
Roar & Explore activities include:
- Dino Detective Dig: Kids use a grid system to uncover “fossils” and document their discoveries.
- Dino Delight: Match dinosaur teeth with their diets and learn about carnivores, omnivores, and herbivores.
- Scavenger Hunt with Eggs: Search for hidden dinosaur eggs and track them on a map.
- Protecting the Present: Learn how we can protect animal habitats in Wisconsin today and take home a conservation action.
- All Roar & Explore activities are included in the $4 exhibit admission.
Admission and Hours
Access to Exploration Dinosaur is just $4 per person in addition to regular Zoo admission. Tickets can be purchased on-site.
Exhibit hours follow Zoo hours:
- May 21–23: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- May 24 – Sept. 1: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Sept. 2 – Oct. 5: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Make It a Summer to Remember
Exploration Dinosaur is the perfect family outing for dino fans of all ages. Whether you’re hunting for fossils, walking beside a towering T. Rex, or learning how to protect modern species, this seasonal exhibit promises fun, learning, and plenty of memories. Don’t miss your chance to dig into the past at the Milwaukee County Zoo this summer!
*Exhibit provided by Billings Productions
