The Royal Tyrrell Museum Is A Must-Visit Spot In Alberta

If you’re wondering if a road trip to Drumheller’s Royal Tyrell Museum is worth the drive, I’m here to tell you – yes! Go! If you’re visiting Calgary and have already added the Canadian Rocky Mountains (and the National Parks) to your must-see list, be sure to add this dinosaur museum, too!

As someone who grew up in Calgary, visiting this treasure has always been an adventure filled with awe and discovery. During my childhood, family and friends often took weekend trips to Drumheller. I vividly remember my cousin’s wide-eyed fascination with the towering dinosaur skeletons and my mom’s favourite section being the life-sized dinosaur display near the end of the museum.

Whether you’re a lifelong learner like me or simply seeking an unforgettable family outing, the Royal Tyrrell Museum offers something truly extraordinary.

So, shall we go on a journey through time?

Key Takeaways

Royal Tyrell Museum: Drumheller Dinosaur History at its Best

With its vast collection of fossils and life-size dinosaur models, it has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the most important museums dedicated to paleontology. Every visit feels like stepping into a time machine, surrounded by artifacts from millions of years ago.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum doesn’t just display fossils; it brings them to life, allowing visitors to step into a world millions of years old. This immersive experience is what makes its palaeontological exhibits truly world-class.

The Royal Tyrell Museum - Dinosaur bones

What You Can Expect

1. Immerse Yourself in Prehistoric Wonders at the Royal Tyrrell Museum

Imagine stepping into a world where dinosaurs roamed the earth. The Royal Tyrrell Museum is a paleontology lover’s dream come true. It’s not just another museum—this place brings ancient history to life with its incredible fossil displays and interactive exhibits.

Family Fun: Whether you’re with kids or just young at heart, the museum offers plenty of hands-on activities that make learning fun. While I visited the museum at least five times between the ages of 12 and 18, I’ve also been back maybe another five times as an adult.

See the “Black Beauty” T. rex: One of the most famous exhibits, this T. rex skeleton is a stunning symbol of Alberta’s rich prehistoric past.

Interactive Displays: There are VR experiences that let you walk with dinosaurs to fossil dig workshops where you can channel your inner paleontologist.

Getting excited yet? Why not go back in time at the Royal Tyrrell Museum and see what all the fuss is about? From families on weekend getaways to solo travellers looking for an educational retreat, this place has something for those who want to both get out in nature and learn something in an immersive environment.

Although the dinosaurs are trapped in time, the museum isn’t. Ever-evolving exhibits allow scientists to research, bring new discoveries to light, and keep up with the latest information out there. The Preparation Lab allows you to view scientists at work behind glass.

2. Connection to Local History: Joseph Burr Tyrrell

When you walk into the Royal Tyrrell Museum, you can feel the lasting impact of Joseph Burr Tyrrell, a key figure in Canadian paleontology. In 1884, while working for the Geological Survey of Canada, Tyrrell made an incredible discovery in Alberta’s Badlands: a dinosaur skull that would later be known as the Albertosaurus sarcophagus. This finding marked a significant moment in North American paleontology.

3. Scenic Location in the Canadian Badlands

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is located in the stunning Canadian Badlands, where you’ll find some of Alberta’s most beautiful landscapes. Imagine this: expansive, rugged land with layers of sedimentary rock formations painted in shades of red, brown, and gold. It’s like entering a different world.

Explore the Fascinating Hoodoos

One remarkable feature of this area is the Hoodoos—tall, slender pillars of rock that have been shaped over thousands of years by wind and water erosion. These natural wonders are not only captivating to see but also provide a dramatic backdrop for your museum visit. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or simply enjoy taking pictures on your phone, the Hoodoos offer endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking images.

Discover Midland Provincial Park

If you love spending time outdoors, make sure to check out Midland Provincial Park, which is right next to the museum. Picture yourself going on a leisurely hike along trails that wind through ancient riverbeds and areas rich in fossils. The park has:

Guided nature walks: Discover the geological history and unique plants and animals of the region.
Scenic viewpoints: Perfect spots for quiet moments of reflection or awe-inspiring photos.
Picnic areas: Great places to enjoy a packed vegan lunch surrounded by nature.

The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal location for mindfulness practices like meditation or simply appreciating the beauty of nature. There’s something incredibly grounding about connecting with the Earth’s history in such an intimate way.

Explore the Majestic Dinosaur Provincial Park

A visit to Dinosaur Provincial Park is like travelling back millions of years. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only breathtakingly beautiful but also one of the richest dinosaur fossil fields in the world.

Scenic Hiking Trails: Wander through rugged badlands and marvel at the unique rock formations, like the famous Hoodoos.
Fossil Hunting: Join a guided tour and try your hand at finding your own piece of prehistoric history.
Camping Under the Stars: If you’re up for an adventure, spend the night in one of the park’s campgrounds. The clear, dark skies make it perfect for stargazing.

Dinosaur Provincial Park is located about 2 hours away from Drumheller. Take a look at the Drumheller to Dinosaur Provincial Park map:

4. Ideal Day Trip from Calgary

Planning a day trip from Calgary to the Royal Tyrrell Museum is easy, and it’s an adventure worth every moment. But why limit yourself to just one destination? Consider adding a visit to Heritage Park, a historical park that offers a glimpse into the past, before heading to Drumheller for the museum.

Be sure to ask about the distance from Edmonton to Drumheller or the distance from Drumheller to Calgary if you’re coming from out of town! The Perfect Drumheller and Dinosaur Provincial Park Itinerary

5. Weekend Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Start with the Royal Tyrrell Museum

Morning: Head to the museum as soon as it opens to beat the crowds. Take your time exploring the exhibits, and don’t miss the “Preparation Lab,” where you can see paleontologists at work.
Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab something in Drumheller. There are a few vegetarian and vegan-friendly spots if that’s your jam.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive through the Badlands, stopping at the Hoodoos and other local geological wonders.

Day 2: Adventure in Dinosaur Provincial Park

Morning: Get up early and hit the trails. Whether you’re hiking, fossil hunting, or just soaking in the views, the park is a feast for the senses.
Lunch: Picnic at one of the scenic spots in the park. Remember to leave no trace!
Afternoon: If you’re up for it, take a guided tour or join a fossil dig. It’s a hands-on experience that’s both educational and thrilling.
Evening: If you’re staying overnight, set up camp and enjoy a night under the stars. If not, head back to Calgary and unwind. The next day? Why not enjoy some time at Heritage Park?

Practical Tips

Getting There: Drumheller is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Calgary by car. The drive is straightforward and scenic.
What to Pack: Comfortable shoes, a camera for the stunning landscapes, and snacks—especially if you’re sticking to a plant-based diet, as the cafeteria in the Royal Tyrell Museum doesn’t have a big selection.
Best Time to Visit: Summer is peak season, but early fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

6. Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Getting There

The journey starts with a scenic drive from Calgary to Drumheller, where the museum is located. The drive is approximately 135 kilometres (around 84 miles) and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Here’s a suggested route:

Take Highway 2 North: From Calgary, head north on Highway 2.
Merge onto Highway 72: Follow signs towards Beiseker.
Continue onto Highway 9: This will take you straight into Drumheller.

Plan Your Visit: Practical Information For A Seamless Experience

Ready to Get Excited and go back in time at the Royal Tyrrell Museum? Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.

Visiting Hours

The museum is open year-round, with varied hours depending on the season:

Summer (May to September): 9 AM – 9 PM
Fall/Winter (October to April): 10 AM – 5 PM

Always check their official website for any changes, especially during holidays.

Check out the current exhibits and opening hours.

What to do Nearby

Midland Provincial Park is a sprawling outdoor space with hiking trails & geocaching, plus just a few minutes away from the Museum.

The Atlas Coal Mine Museum is about 25 minutes away by car.

The Atlas Coal Mine is one of the longest-running mines in Alberta and touts plenty of fresh and fascinating mining tours, all centred around specific themes and folklore. Live the life of a ’30s-era coal miner, handling artifacts in work clothes. You’ll learn plenty about our storied mining past while experiencing mine blowing history.
Atlas Mine Museum website

Dinosaur Provincial Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, has camping options, trails, and numerous adventure activities (like paddling, hiking, and biking.) It’s located at least a two-hour drive from the town of Drumheller and the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology.

Where to Eat

There is a cafeteria inside the Museum serving the usual things like pizza, hamburgers, and French fries. There is also a coffee station. If you’re looking for something more inspired, head to the town of Drumheller for fast food options, restaurants, and casual dining.

Where to Stay

Nearby Drumheller is a natural choice for where to stay the night when you visit The Royal Tyrrell Museum, which is about a 15-minute drive away.

Canalta Jurassic is a fun hotel for the whole family. There is free breakfast, a hot tub, a sauna, and a microwave and fridge in the rooms.

The Ramada Inn is a good choice for a chain hotel that offers free breakfast, a fitness room, a swimming pool, and a hot tub. The rooms are large and comfortable.

The Heartland Inn and Spa is a cozy boutique accommodation that offers fireplaces, robes, whirlpool bathtubs, and fridges in rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting the Royal Tyrrell Museum

How Long to spend at the Royal Tyrrell Museum?

How long does it take to go through Royal Tyrrell Museum? Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours at the museum to fully explore the exhibits, though you could easily spend more time if you participate in additional activities like fossil casting workshops or guided tours.

Where is the Royal Tyrrell Museum located?

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is located in Drumheller, Alberta, within Midland Provincial Park. This area is part of the Canadian Badlands, known for its striking landscapes and fossil-rich deposits.

Why is the Royal Tyrrell Museum important?

What is the Royal Tyrrell Museum known for? The museum is famous because it serves as both a public exhibit space and a research facility dedicated to the study of ancient life. It offers an unparalleled view into the prehistoric past, featuring over 800 fossils on permanent display and hosting extensive educational programs.

Why is the Royal Tyrrell Museum important to Alberta?

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is crucial to Alberta because it houses one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, which highlights Alberta’s rich palaeontological history.

Who is the Royal Tyrrell Museum named after?

The museum is proudly named after the renowned surveyor and explorer Joseph Burr Tyrrell, who discovered dinosaur remains near the present museum site in 1884.

Final Thoughts

The Royal Tyrrell Museum offers a unique opportunity to connect with the prehistoric past, making it a must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts and families alike. From the awe-inspiring halls filled with life-sized dinosaur models to the intricately detailed fossils that tell stories millions of years in the making, every corner of this museum is a portal to another era.

Engaging educational programs and extensive exhibits ignite curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Whether you’re participating in a hands-on workshop or simply marvelling at the majestic skeletons, there’s something here to captivate visitors of all ages.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the stunning landscapes of Alberta while immersing yourself in the fascinating history of our planet. The surrounding Canadian Badlands offer breathtaking views and unique geological formations that are perfect for hiking and photography.

Additionally, Alberta is home to some beautiful beaches. You can check out this list of the best beaches in Alberta for family-friendly spots and water sports locations.

Plan your visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum today—discover the secrets of ancient worlds, enjoy an educational adventure with your family, and soak in the natural beauty that makes this destination truly special.

Why the Drumheller Royal Tyrrell Museum is a Must-Visit Spot in Alberta