Residents of Connecticut often take for granted that we have a state park solely devoted to dinosaurs. But when you think about it, the park and what it has preserved is truly astonishing. The location where dinosaurs roamed 200 million years ago is right here in the Nutmeg State and we have the footprints to prove it.
Dinosaur State Park and Arboretum is located in Rocky Hill on 80 acres. Its geodesic dome covers the site of over 500 fossil dinosaur tracks, one of the largest in North America.
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A bulldozer operator unearthed the tracks in 1966 when excavating the site for new construction. The park officially opened in 1968 and the trackway was declared a Registered National Landmark.
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Under the dome, visitors may see the tracks from the early Jurassic period. Made over 200 million years ago, these fossilized footprints are awe-inspiring.
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A walkway leads over the track site, so the exposed portion remains intact showcasing these unbelievable pieces of history. Another 1500 tracks remain buried for preservation purposes.
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The educational exhibit center will aid you in learning about the geology of the area. The descriptive signs are well-written and very helpful.
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You will also see a life sized model of the creature that created these footprints back when dinosaurs roamed the area.
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Make your own cast of a dinosaur track outside. This is a souvenir of epic proportions to take home.
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The state park also has a variety of trails to explore. Stroll over 2 miles to check out the plant families that lived during the days of the dinosaurs.
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The swamp trail has a boardwalk to keep your feet clean and dry. Imagine what the landscape must have looked like when the dinosaurs were here.
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Enjoy the enchanting butterfly garden at the park, although it is a bit out of place, the colorful flowers and insects are delightful.
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Dinosaur State Park exhibit center is open Tuesday - Sunday from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The grounds and trails are open Tuesday - Sunday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. The park is closed to visitors on Mondays. Admission is $6 for anyone 13-years-old and older, $2 for youth ages 6-12, and children 5-years-old and under are free.
Google Maps You can find the park at 400 West St., Rocky Hill, CT 06067. For more information about Dinosaur State Park, visit their website.
Have you ever been to this spot in Connecticut where dinosaurs roamed freely long, long ago? Share your experiences and pictures if you have them in the comments section below.
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Google Maps
You can find the park at 400 West St., Rocky Hill, CT 06067. For more information about Dinosaur State Park, visit their website.
You should also plan a visit to this park that is home to the state’s largest tree or this captivating wildlife park that the whole family will enjoy.
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