Step into a world where colossal creatures once roamed the Earth at Fernbank Museum's groundbreaking "Ultimate Dinosaurs" exhibit. This extraordinary exhibition brings together rare fossils, cutting-edge technology, and immersive experiences to tell the fascinating story of dinosaur evolution in the Southern Hemisphere. From massive predators to gentle giants, discover how these remarkable animals adapted and thrived in ancient Gondwana. With Atlanta CityPASS® tickets, you can experience this and other top Atlanta attractions while enjoying significant savings on admission.
Exhibit Overview
The Ultimate Dinosaurs traveling exhibition transforms Fernbank Museum into a prehistoric playground where you can encounter some of the most unusual and remarkable dinosaur species ever discovered. Unlike traditional dinosaur exhibits that focus on familiar North American species, this innovative showcase highlights the creatures that evolved in isolation in the Southern Hemisphere after the supercontinent Pangaea split apart.
What To Expect at the Ultimate Dinosaurs Exhibit
Following the breakup of Pangaea, dinosaurs in the Southern Hemisphere evolved differently from their northern counterparts, resulting in fascinating adaptations and entirely new species. The exhibit features numerous specimens that you may not have encountered before, including the massive Giganotosaurus, which was the larger, worse cousin of the T. Rex, and the bizarre-looking Carnotaurus with its distinctive horns and tiny arms.
The Experience
The Ultimate Dinosaurs exhibition, available from February 8 to May 4, 2025, offers you an unprecedented journey through prehistoric times. Every aspect of the Ultimate Dinosaurs experience has been carefully crafted to educate, engage, and inspire visitors of all ages, creating memorable encounters with some of Earth's most extraordinary creatures.
Interactive Installations
The Ultimate Dinosaurs exhibit goes beyond traditional fossil displays by incorporating augmented reality technology and interactive digital experiences. You can use specially designed iPads to watch these prehistoric giants come to life before your eyes. Through innovative projection mapping technology, you can see how the dinosaurs' flesh, muscles, and skin would have appeared over their skeletal structure, providing an unprecedented look at these ancient beings.
Fossil Displays
At the heart of the exhibition are the meticulously preserved and reconstructed fossils that tell the story of dinosaur evolution. Marvel at full-scale skeletal casts, authentic fossil specimens, and detailed reconstructions of these fascinating creatures. The exhibit includes several standout specimens:
- The enormous Giganotosaurus, a fearsome predator that dominated South America
- The horned Carnotaurus, with its unique adaptations for high-speed pursuit
- The long-necked Amargasaurus, featuring distinctive neural spines along its neck
- The heavily armored Saltasaurus, one of the last surviving sauropods
Educational Programs and Workshops
The exhibit features regular educational programming designed for visitors of all ages. Expert paleontologists lead engaging workshops that explore topics such as fossil preparation, dinosaur biology, and the latest discoveries in paleontology. These programs provide hands-on learning experiences and the opportunity to interact with real scientists working in the field.
Integration With the Museum
Connection to WildWoods and Fernbank Forest
The Ultimate Dinosaurs exhibit seamlessly integrates with Fernbank's other natural history offerings, including the immersive Fernbank Museum of Natural History experience. You can extend your prehistoric journey by exploring the museum's WildWoods and Fernbank Forest, where you can discover how the landscape has changed since the age of dinosaurs and observe modern-day descendants of these ancient creatures.
Giant Screen Theater Offerings
Complement your exhibition visit with an incredible prehistoric adventure in Fernbank's Giant Screen Theater. Special dinosaur-themed documentaries bring these magnificent creatures to life in stunning detail, offering a perfect enhancement to the exhibit experience. The theater's state-of-the-art technology provides an unparalleled immersive understanding that makes you feel as if you're walking alongside these prehistoric creatures.
Special Events and Nighttime Experiences
The exhibit takes on a different character after hours during Fernbank after dark events. These adults-only evenings offer a unique perspective on the exhibition, featuring special programming, themed cocktails, and expert-led tours that provide in-depth insights into the world of dinosaurs.
Why You Should Visit
The Ultimate Dinosaurs exhibit at Fernbank Museum represents a rare opportunity to explore some of the most extraordinary creatures that ever walked the Earth. This world-class exhibition combines scientific accuracy with engaging presentation to create an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Fernbank Museum offers an educational adventure that brings natural history to life:
- Exclusive access to rare and unusual dinosaur species: Encounter extraordinary creatures like the Giganotosaurus and Carnotaurus that evolved in isolation in the Southern Hemisphere, offering a unique perspective on dinosaur diversity beyond familiar species.
- Cutting-edge augmented reality experiences: Through state-of-the-art technology, watch as ancient skeletons transform into fully fleshed creatures, complete with detailed skin textures and natural movements.
- Expert-led educational programs and workshops: Learn directly from paleontologists and researchers who share their latest discoveries and insights through engaging presentations and hands-on activities suitable for all ages.
- Integration with Fernbank's other world-class exhibits and facilities: Extend your prehistoric journey into the museum's other attractions, including the immersive WildWoods experience and the breathtaking Giant Screen Theater presentations.
- Special events and programming for both families and adults: From daytime family adventures to sophisticated evening events like Fernbank After Dark, the exhibition offers unique experiences tailored to every audience.
Roar Into Prehistory: Your Jurassic Journey Awaits at Fernbank
Don't miss this opportunity to explore the fascinating world of Ultimate Dinosaurs at Fernbank Museum. This limited-time exhibition offers a unique window into Earth's prehistoric past and the remarkable creatures that once ruled the Southern Hemisphere.
Make the most of your visit by purchasing Atlanta CityPASS® tickets, which include admission to Fernbank Museum along with other top things to do in Atlanta at significant savings. Plan your prehistoric adventure today and step into a world where giants once roamed.
Visitor Information:
- Location: Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Atlanta
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Admission: Included with general museum admission
- Special Events: Check the museum's calendar for after-hours events and special programming
- Accessibility: Full wheelchair access and accommodations are available
Lodging in Atlanta
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Booking.comHeader image Courtesy of Fernbank Museum of Natural History