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Attractions

Dinosaurs roar to life at OMSI

Portland, Ore.– Stare the mighty T. rex in the eye this summer at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)—and it might just blink back. Featuring animatronic dinosaurs and complete skeletons, Dinosaurs Unearthed uses the latest in fossil evidence to take a captivating look at the dinosaurs’ fascinating—and feathered—history.
Set amongst naturalistic indoor landscapes, fifteen animatronic models will challenge guests’ understanding of how their favorite dinosaurs lived and looked during prehistoric times. Now believed to have had feathers, scientists understand that some dinosaurs are the ancestors of modern birds.
“Dinosaurs are intriguing subjects that provide rich opportunities for science learning,” says Nancy Stueber, OMSI President. “This exhibition is a tremendous opportunity to learn about the latest scientific findings while igniting our imaginations as the creatures seemingly come to life. We couldn’t be more excited.”
Each of the life-like animatronic dinosaurs has been custom designed and handcrafted for the exhibition by a team of “paleo-artists” using the best available data from paleontologists on how each species actually looked and sounded.
For many, the exhibition’s feathered Tyrannosaurus rex juvenile will be the most striking dinosaur. Long considered the quintessential reptilian dinosaur in appearance, scientists believe the predator may have been covered in downy protofeathers from the time of its hatching through adolescence. Other guests may find the awesome size of the 15-foot tall Gigantoraptor to be the biggest surprise, especially when they realize the specimen from which the model is based had not yet reached its full size at the time of its death.
Dinosaurs Unearthed opened in May and closes Tuesday, September 2, 2014.
Admission for adults is $13; youth (3-13) and seniors (63+), $9.50; member adults, $5; member youth/senior, Free. Prices include admission to the museum. Visit www.omsi.edu for more information.