Roam the Jurassic with Dinosaur Explore

There are many family friendly attractions around the Atlanta area, but Stone Mountain Park is one of our favorites. They frequently add new attractions, giving you reasons to return all year long. Their newest exhibit, Dinosaur Explore, is sure to be a hit with dinosaur fans young and old. My family and I were invited to the grand opening to help facilitate this review, but all opinions and photos are my own. Extinct from Earth for millions of years, 14 species of prehistoric dinosaurs have made their way to Stone Mountain Park. “Dinosaur Explore” is now open and will run throughout the 2017 season. Settled on the edge of the park, Dinosaur Explore has a walkable path that leads you past more than 20 life-sized dinosaurs. Their special effects allow them to move and roar, just like their ancient ancestors. Here are just a few of the dinosaurs you will see:

• the giant Tyrannosaurus Rex
• Ankylosaurus
• Brachiosaurus (towering above guests over 20 feet tall and 33 feet long)
• Triceratops
• a ferocious allosaurus
• a winged pteranodon
• and many more scientifically accurate species

At the end of the dinosaur trail, you will find a sandpit that doubles as a dino dig. Your little explorers can use shovels, rakes, and other tools to play and pretend to be paleontologists.   As a parent, my favorite part of Dinosaur Explore is that it is not only fun, but educational as well. We took mini notebooks and pencils for both kids to jot down notes and sketches while we walked around, and I was amazed at how much they learned. You can go just to see the dinosaurs, or you can go and make it a learning experience full of teachable moments. This is a great place for schools to take a class field trip!

The Dinotorium

Even the great barn has temporarily transformed and is now being called the "Dinotorium." After showing your wrist band at the door, you can enter and explore the Dinotorium, collecting balls to deposit into the Dino Generator. Kids and adults can climb, slide, and walk through the 3 different levels. *Dinosaur Explore is only available on "Attractions Open" days; but it is included in a daily Adventure Pass and an annual Mountain Membership.