Dig Into Discovery at Heritage Park’s New Badlands Dinosaur Dig Exhibit

Calgary, AB — Opening June 28, 2025, history gets prehistoric at Heritage Park with the launch of the Badlands Dinosaur Dig—an all new immersive, hands-on fossil hunting experience set in the Park’s newest interpretive area, Resource Ridge. Get ready to unearth Alberta fossils, spark curiosity, and step into the thrill of discovery.

Budding palaeontologists of all ages can roll up their sleeves at this hands-on dig site, uncovering dinosaur fossils just like scientists—including an Albertosaurus. Featuring interactive displays, a working palaeontology field office, and immersive storytelling, the Badlands Dinosaur Dig transforms Alberta’s ancient past into an exciting, educational experience—designed to inspire discovery and engage families, tourists and school groups alike.

But Badlands Dinosaur Dig goes beyond bones—it tells the story of Alberta’s place in one of the most thrilling chapters of scientific discovery. During the Great Canadian Dinosaur Rush (1910–1917), fossil hunters, scholars and local guides raced to uncover some of the world’s most remarkable prehistoric treasures.

Visitors will also get a rare behind-the-scenes look inside a palaeontology office, to learn how fossils were documented, prepared and interpreted—it also highlights the vital role local ranchers and landowners had in shaping the field.

“The Badlands Dinosaur Dig is an exciting new addition to Resource Ridge, where kids can play, explore and connect with Alberta’s prehistoric past—and adults just might learn something new too,” says Sarah Edwards, Heritage Park’s Director of Programming and Experience. “We’re thrilled to offer a hands-on experience that brings the stories of the Badlands and the Dinosaur Rush to life in a way that’s meaningful for the whole family.”

This brand-new and immersive exhibit isn’t just about what’s been uncovered—it’s about who found it and why it matters. From the fossil hunters of the Dinosaur Rush to the scientists and storytellers of today, the Badlands Dinosaur Dig brings Western Canada’s rich palaeontological heritage to life through stories, hands-on exploration and fun discovery.

Heritage Park invites families, tourists and curious minds of all ages to dig into the past and celebrate Alberta’s prehistoric legacy this summer. Admission to Resource Ridge is included with General Admission or a Heritage Park Annual Membership. For more information, click here.

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Media Inquiries
Eirin Bernie, Communications & Marketing Manager
Heritage Park Historical Village
ebernie@heritagepark.ca | 403.519.3409

About Heritage Park Historical Village
Heritage Park Historical Village is one of Canada’s largest living history museums, offering guests immersive, hands-on experiences of Western Canada’s diverse past. Located in Calgary on Treaty 7 territory, Heritage Park has been a cultural and tourism cornerstone since 1964. As a registered charity, Heritage Park preserves and shares history through interactive exhibits, costumed interpreters, historic buildings, antique rides and more. Welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, Heritage
Park plays a vital role in Alberta’s tourism economy, prairie heritage preservation and community engagement—making it Canada’s premier family destination where history truly comes alive.