It
was back in 1884 that Joseph Burr Tyrrell discovered the skull
of Albertosaurus near Drumheller, Alberta. His find sparked
international interest among paleontologists, and the area
has attracted dinosaur aficionados ever since. The Tyrrell
Museum of Paleontology opened in 1985 to instant acclaim,
and in 1990, Queen Elizabeth granted it "Royal"
status. The building, which encompasses 11,200 square meters,
has 35 complete dinosaur skeletons on display, the largest
such assemblage in the world. The Museum offers far more than
bones, however. It's packed with state-of-the-art multi-media
displays and computer terminals where visitors can design
their own dinosaurs or play simulation games. There are even
a few live animals on display, including an unforgettable
flock of giant tropical cockroaches and an unbelievably large
millipede.
The
Museum's programs extend far beyond its walls. As of 10/1/07,
the museum provides over 20 hours each day of educational
programming during the summer months as well as day and residential
science camps offering fossil casting, hikes, prospecting
and much more. During the winter months, the museum sponsors
sleepovers in their Dinosaur Hall giving dinosaur enthusiasts
the chance to catch some Zs with their favorite large critters.
For
anyone who ever had an unrequited crush on a T. Rex, the Royal
Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology is a dream come true!
Royal
Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology
Box 7500
Drumheller, Alberta T0J 0Y0
(403) 823-7707
Visit the Museum's Web site at: www.tyrrellmuseum.com
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