ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
1 College St, Burlington, VT 05401
What to Expect
Dive into a world of scientific discovery at the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, an innovative science and nature museum on the beautiful Burlington waterfront. Explore over 100 interactive exhibits, meet fascinating live animals, and come face-to-face with a legend. It’s an inspiring and engaging experience for curious minds of all ages!
The Prehistoric Experience
The museum features a permanent exhibit, ‘Champ: America’s Lake Monster,’ which includes a 30-foot, life-sized sculpture of the legendary creature, whose appearance is modeled after a prehistoric plesiosaur, a marine reptile from the age of dinosaurs.
Hours: Open daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium
1302 Main St, St. Johnsbury, VT 05819
What to Expect
Step into a Victorian-era ‘cabinet of curiosities’ at the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, a stunning architectural gem packed with wonders of the natural world. From fascinating fossils and taxidermy to Vermont’s only public planetarium, this museum is a treasure trove of discovery. Prepare to be amazed by the vast collections and engaging exhibits that have captivated visitors for over a century.
The Prehistoric Experience
The museum’s Lyman Spitzer Jr. Planetarium offers immersive, guided tours of the cosmos, including presentations that can transport you back in time to the age of the dinosaurs. The museum also features a collection of shells and fossils.
Hours: Open daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Jurassic Quest x Brick Fest
105 Pearl St, Essex Junction, VT 05452
Dates: October 24, 2025 to October 26, 2025
What to Expect
Get ready for a colossal family adventure as two huge events combine for one unforgettable weekend! Roar with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs at Jurassic Quest, where you can ride your favorite dino, dig for fossils, and meet adorable baby dinosaurs. Then, unleash your creativity in the world of Brick Fest, with millions of LEGO bricks and incredible displays to inspire you.
The Prehistoric Experience
This traveling event features a large exhibit of life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs, including a 60-foot Spinosaurus and an 80-foot Apatosaurus. Activities include dinosaur rides, a fossil dig, and interactive shows with baby dinosaurs.
Hours: Friday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS)
149 Natures Way, Quechee, VT 05059
What to Expect
Connect with the natural world like never before at the VINS Nature Center! Soar to new heights on the amazing Forest Canopy Walk, meet majestic live raptors, and explore acres of beautiful nature trails. It’s an unforgettable adventure that inspires a love for the environment in visitors of all ages.
The Prehistoric Experience
The ‘Birds Are Dinosaurs’ exhibit explores the evolutionary link between dinosaurs and modern birds. It features skeletons, life-sized replicas, and hands-on activities to illustrate the adaptations acquired over 250 million years.
Hours: Open daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Vermontasaurus
104 Robinson Hill Rd, Post Mills, VT 05058
What to Expect
Discover the quirky and beloved Vermontasaurus, a magnificent roadside sculpture that sparks the imagination of all who visit! This towering folk-art dinosaur, crafted entirely from reclaimed wood, offers a fantastic and free photo opportunity in a beautiful rural setting. It’s a testament to community spirit and creative recycling that will leave you smiling.
The Prehistoric Experience
The Vermontasaurus is a 122-foot-long and 25-foot-tall sculpture of a dinosaur made from scrap wood. A smaller ‘baby’ version stands alongside the main structure.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Event and attraction details are provided for informational purposes only. Please verify dates, hours, locations, and availability directly with the hosting venue or official event organizer. Listings may change or be canceled without notice. We are not responsible for outdated or incorrect information, as all events are managed by independent third parties.