Finding fun, unique activities for kids that won’t cost you an arm and a leg is not easy. I was invited to a media preview of Jurassic Quest in Birmingham, Alabama, and I also ended up taking my kids on my dime. My Jurassic Quest reviews are honest, regardless of whether I paid for my ticket or not. I hope this review helps you determine if Jurassic Quest is worth it for you, too.
What is Jurassic Quest?
First, you may be wondering what Jurassic Quest is. It is, at its core, an interactive exhibit for dinosaur fans of all ages. It features animatronic dinosaurs, ridable dinosaurs, a fossil dig, and more.
Your admission ticket includes a secondary exhibit called Ancient Oceans. It features animatronic sea creatures that are now extinct. This exhibit is not part of the 2024 tour, but the event planners are hoping it will return soon.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit? What About Souvenirs?
Cost is everything these days. Thankfully, this exhibit isn’t overly priced, but do be aware that there are lots of opportunities to add to your bottom line. Children under 2 are free. Basic admission begins at $22 per ticket and goes up from there. Discounted tickets are available for seniors (aged 65+), military personnel, first responders, police officers, and medical personnel.
What is included in admission? Entrance to the two animatronic exhibits, Jurassic Quest and Ancient Oceans. Everything else requires an activity ticket ($6 per activity) or a Kids: Ultimate Ticket, which is a combination of general admission plus activities (except for face painting and green screen photo keepsakes). Souvenirs are available to purchase and include t-shirts, light-up toys, dinosaurs (plastic and plush), stickers, hats, and more.
Ancient Oceans is not part of the 2024 tour experience. The website will update guests when that part of the exhibit returns.
What Can You Do on Your Visit?
The indoor event has multiple activities; there is so much more than just audio animatronic dinosaurs! My kids particularly enjoyed the Fossil Dig, inflatables, and Dino Crafts. My two-year-old son also loved the Tricera-Tots play area, specifically for children under the age of 3.
The Raptor Training Experience offers visitors the chance to capture up-close photos with a “real” raptor. Although portrayed by a costumed actor, this interactive encounter is a big hit with little ones. Additionally, you have the unique opportunity to engage with a fossil expert who shares insights into paleontology and showcases authentic dinosaur bones and fossils. This hands-on experience not only entertains but also educates visitors about prehistoric creatures and the science of paleontology.
How Long Does the Dinosaur Experience Take?
After the media preview, I was asked a few times how long a family should expect to spend at the event. My opinion is that it depends on your party’s size and age range. School-aged children who are passionate about dinosaurs will enjoy everything they see (and I do mean everything). However, my youngest finished his visit after only one hour, but that was partly due to his age. Saturday will most likely be the busiest day of the exhibit, and there may be a long wait time for certain experiences, so pack your patience.
Once you enter Jurassic Quest, you can stay as long as you like. The length of visit is completely up to you. You can even go back through the animatronics to view them again. Rides and play areas may be subject to time limits to allow everyone at the event to have a turn.
Is Jurassic Quest Worth the Price of Tickets?
Finally, let’s discuss whether Jurassic Quest is “worth it.” I often get this question when it comes to spending money on just about any kind of travel or experience. If it is something your kid(s) would love, I think it’s worth the cost. It doesn’t matter if other Jurassic Quest reviews say it’s worth it or overrated. Only you know what your kid(s) will enjoy.
The indoor events are climate-controlled, and we were able to take our time with each activity. Restrooms were also nearby for anyone who needed them. My only caveat is that you should consider your child’s temperament. If you don’t think your child will be brave enough to ride the dinosaurs or climb in an inflatable, consider saving cash by buying individual activity tickets on-site.
Where to Visit the Exhibit This Year
Finally, where can you visit the exhibit? It’s probably a lot closer than you think! Jurassic Quest is a traveling event that moves around the US from city to city regularly. Birmingham residents, it’s coming to the BJCC from August 9th through August 11th. Families in Huntsville, Alabama can see the event from September 6th through September 8th.
Check the Jurassic Quest website for the most updated location information on pricing, location, souvenirs, and more.
I’m Sarah, and you’ve landed on my website, On the Road with Sarah. This is where I share travel stories, tips, and so much more!
