Today, I had the exciting opportunity to explore the much-anticipated Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, which is set to welcome visitors starting March 29th. Trust me, you’re in for an incredible experience!
As you step into the parking area, the first thing that captures your attention is the breathtaking architecture. The structure is a testament to sustainability, seamlessly integrating eco-friendly elements throughout its design. With features like reclaimed carbon concrete, mass timber, and responsibly sourced materials, Edelman Fossil Park not only educates visitors about environmental conservation but embodies it in every aspect.
The windows are crafted from bird-safe glass. While they appear transparent to us, they resemble spider webs in the ultraviolet spectrum, which birds can perceive. This innovative design helps prevent collisions, tackling a major issue that leads to approximately one billion bird fatalities each year in the United States alone!
Before heading into the museum, keep an eye out for a playground inspired by the prehistoric era. Shaped like a Pteranodon, this unique play area is made from sustainable Accoya Wood. Behind the playground, a sandbox invites young explorers to unearth dinosaur fossils, which the staff will cover up each night, ready for the next day's discoveries.
This museum transports you back 66 million years to the age of the dinosaurs. Every dinosaur on display is one that would have roamed the landscapes of South Jersey, allowing you to encounter your ancient neighbors in stunning life-sized replicas.
The museum unfolds like a captivating narrative, beginning with the tale of our planet and leading to the moment humans entered the picture. From there, you embark on a journey back 66 million years to discover the dinosaurs that once inhabited this region! As you stroll through the Dinosaur Coast Gallery, you'll be surrounded by life-sized models that seem to spring to life, accompanied by prehistoric sounds that echo from all directions.
Next, you'll plunge beneath the waves to discover the fascinating ancient creatures of the Cretaceous period that once roamed the waters off the East Coast, including the impressive 55-foot mosasaur and some recognizable species like the Sand-Tiger Shark.
After that, you'll discover the fate of the dinosaurs through a poignant video showcasing the final three days of these magnificent creatures on Earth, just before an asteroid brought their reign to an end. Following this, you'll step into the Age of Mammals, a period when mammals rose to prominence, giving rise to the beloved animals we recognize today.
Lastly, you'll uncover the effects of human activity on the Earth and find out what steps you can take to help protect and sustain our planet for those who come after us as you exit the main part of the museum.
After leaving the gallery section of the museum, we headed downstairs to explore Discovery Forest. This area invites children to embark on an exciting nature-themed adventure that explores the history and evolution of our planet. The journey culminates in the lively TED-Ed theater, where animated films vividly illustrate scientific concepts. Additionally, there are interactive stations where kids can discover the reasons behind fossils and tackle other intriguing questions.
Edelman Fossil Park & Museum is making a concerted effort to engage visitors of all ages by offering an exciting interactive VR experience. It has a thrilling atmosphere reminiscent of a blend between Jurassic Park and an escape room. Tweens, teens, and adults alike will enjoy this adventure as you start in a small room where you can strategize with your group before venturing into a larger space for a VR exploration. The storyline involves your team traveling back in time to gather data and specimens from the age of dinosaurs, all while racing against the clock to complete your mission before the asteroid strikes. Please note that this experience comes with an additional fee and is separate from the general admission to the museum.
What sets Edelman's apart from other museums in the region is its unique fossil quarry. This active site is continuously being excavated, revealing fossils that lie just beneath the surface. Visitors will have the exciting opportunity to dig for fossils themselves, and any treasures they uncover can be taken home! If you happen to discover something particularly rare, the museum will ensure that your name is associated with the find. Over the past two decades, this quarry has yielded more than one hundred thousand fossils, so you're sure to make a discovery! The quarry will be open from May 1 through October, so lace up your sneakers and prepare to get a little messy!
A fantastic museum wouldn't be complete without a gift shop, where guests can purchase memorable souvenirs like books, cuddly dinosaurs, and other fun items. Edelman's gift shop stands out with its warm and welcoming play area for children, allowing them to have a blast while their parents shop. And believe me, when I say cozy, I truly mean it! Check out the photo below.
The Edelman Fossil Park & Museum is set to welcome visitors starting March 29! Tickets for adults are available for $29, while children between the ages of 3 and 12 can join the fun for only $24. Little ones under 2 can come in for free, and members enjoy additional benefits. Don’t miss out—click the button below to secure your tickets now!
CHECK OUT THE INSTAGRAM VIDEO
Macaroni KID Cherry Hill strives to enrich the community and keep families active by providing a FREE Kid-friendly events calendar on our website. You can become an insider and receive our calendar along with craft ideas, recipes and enter giveaways by subscribing to our FREE weekly e-newsletter. Macaroni KID Cherry Hill is published by a local mom who lives, works and raises her children in the community. If you would like to join our network of family-friendly businesses and connect your brand with local parents in Camden County and the Southern New Jersey region, please email the Publisherand learn how you can share your business/services with our readers.
