EVOLUTION of Discovery
Imagine in the awe and wonder as people move through an exhibit where ancient giants come to life through scientifically accurate, state-of-the-art displays and interactive learning experiences.
Our collective fascination with dinosaurs continues, as do new discoveries and understanding of paleontology. Today, scientists know much more about dinosaurs and the prehistoric era. Sadly, the Museums’ Dinosaur Hall is no longer accurate. The Springfield Science Museum has a responsibility to present current science and we intend to do so!
Our goal is to offer a dinosaur experience and learning destination that is unmatched in all of New England. The renovated and upgraded Dinosaur Hall at the Springfield Museums will draw visitors, dinosaur enthusiasts, and students from near and far.
New England’s Hub for dinosaur education
With your support, we will create the most significant and comprehensive dinosaur exhibit in the Northeast. We will expand STEM and STEAM learning, create a more inclusive and accessible environment, and positively impact the Museums, our community, and the region.
Upon Arrival at the Museums
A brand-new experience begins with the building’s facade. Welcoming, thrilling, and non-threatening sculptures will delight visitors of all ages.
Dinosaur Hall Transformed
Immersive, interactive, and more accurate are the hallmarks of this transformation. Visitors will make connections between these prehistoric creatures and today’s geology, ecology, and climatology realities.
Panoramic Views
Visitors will regain a fresh new perspective on dinosaurs from our new, second-level observation deck. Its placement between Earth and Astronomy Halls will allow visitors to make connections between extinction and geology.
Students Abound
Interactive exhibits will advance clear learning objectives aligned with Massachusetts’ Curriculum Frameworks. Inspired children may imagine themselves as scientists. STEM and STEAM education will expand beyond the Museums through concrete learning opportunities. Luminaries from diverse backgrounds in the field of paleontology will be featured throughout.
Sensitivity to Littles
Positioning the new animatronic Tyrannosaurus rex toward the back of the gallery will encourage deeper exploration, and reduce any initial fears of small children. With their trusted caregivers, children will be able to express and regulate the emotions inspired by the dinosaur experience.
Vibrant Multi-Use Space
Tolman Auditorium will be transformed into a bright, immersive, gallery-like environment, creating dynamic space ideal for school groups, club meetings, board meetings, and other gatherings.
Science uncovers new evidence each day. The Springfield Museums is committed to evolving our exhibits, keeping them as accurate and up to date as possible, as new information is discovered. In fact, our adaptable dinosaur exhibit design will be make it future proof.
Dinosaurs Roamed Here
Our western Massachusetts region is rich in paleontological significance. We’ll tell local stories through our collections, and become the hub and starting point to visit real fossils, in situ dinosaur footprints, and other dinosaur attractions and destinations in the region. Significant fossils will get more visibility and the attention they richly deserve.
The reimagined Dinosaur Experience will bring significant returns including:
Elevated Credibility and Reputation
of the Science Museum through accurate and palaeontologic representation and education
3x More School Group Visits
furthering our goal to triple the number of students who visit the Science Museum each year
25% Increase in Overall Visitation
to the Springfield Museums
$26 Million in Economic Impact
furthering our goal to triple the number of students who visit the Science Museum each year