Milwaukee Public Museum's Dino Days Roars into Summer

Summer just got a whole lot more prehistoric! The Milwaukee Public Museum is transforming into a dinosaur wonderland from July 7-25, 2025, with their exciting "Dino Days of Summer" event. If you're looking for an educational adventure that will captivate kids while beating the summer heat, this three-week celebration of all things dinosaur is exactly what your family needs.

A Dino-mite Experience for Every Age

What makes Dino Days special is how it caters to different age groups and interests. Whether you have a curious preschooler or a budding young paleontologist, there's something to spark their imagination.

For the Little Ones (Ages 3-6): Saturday Storytime Series on July 12 and 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. brings dinosaurs to life in the Early Learning classroom. These hands-on activities and story sessions are perfect for introducing younger children to the world of paleontology in an age-appropriate, engaging way.

For School-Age Kids: The weekday Education Stations offer fascinating learning opportunities where museum educators guide children through interactive experiences. Kids can test their paleontology skills with the Fossil Challenge, learn what actually makes a dinosaur a dinosaur in "Dino or Di-NO?", discover how scientists name species in "Name-a-Saurus," and explore the groundbreaking work of Mary Anning, a pioneering 19th-century paleontologist.

For Dino Experts (Ages 6+): The Family Dino Trivia Night on July 24 from 6-8 p.m. promises friendly competition and ultimate bragging rights. At $15 per person, it's an affordable way to put your family's dino knowledge to the test.

Beyond the Activities: World-Class Exhibits

While the special programming is exciting, don't miss MPM's permanent dinosaur treasures. The museum houses some truly remarkable specimens, including a massive Torosaurus skull that's nearly nine feet long and eight feet wide—one of the largest dinosaur skulls ever discovered. This particular specimen is special because it was found by a Milwaukee Public Museum expedition in Montana and includes rare post-cranial remains.

The life-size Hell Creek recreation immerses visitors in a prehistoric Montana floodplain, complete with a T. rex, Triceratops, and atmospheric lighting and sounds that simulate a thunderstorm. It's an experience that makes learning feel like time travel.

Daily Planetarium Magic

Every day during Dino Days, the Daniel M. Soref Dome Theater and Planetarium presents "Dino SOARS!" at 12:10 p.m. This show explores the fascinating evolutionary connections between birds and dinosaurs—perfect for kids who love both creatures.

Making It Work for Your Budget

Here's the best news for frequent museum visitors: Dino Days activities are FREE with MPM membership. For families who love regular museum adventures, this makes membership an excellent investment. Even if you're not a member, the individual activity costs are reasonable, and general admission gives you access to the museum's extensive permanent collections.

Planning Your Visit

Remember that the museum is closed on Tuesdays, and Education Station days and times may vary, so check the current schedule before your visit. With three full weeks of programming, you have plenty of flexibility to find times that work for your family's summer schedule.

Milwaukee families are fortunate to have such a world-class natural history museum right in their backyard. Dino Days of Summer combines the excitement of discovery with serious scientific learning, creating memories that will last long after the summer ends. Whether your kids are dinosaur devotees or just beginning to explore the prehistoric world, this event offers the perfect blend of education and adventure that makes summer learning both fun and meaningful.

Ready to embark on your prehistoric adventure? Visit the Milwaukee Public Museum's website for the most current schedule and to learn more about membership options. Your family's journey through deep time awaits!