I took my kids back—90 million years, to be exact—on a prehistoric trip to Field Station: Dinosaurs in Leonia, New Jersey. Nestled into Bergen County’s Overpeck Park, we amazingly entered the past, where these enormous, extraordinary creatures come back to life (thanks AI tech!). And if your kids are up on their dino facts, this is the (almost) real deal—paleontologists have worked to ensure the exhibit utilizes the latest theories and discoveries in paleontology, geology, and environmental studies. We had an incredible adventure at this Jurassic-themed park, the only one on the East Coast (the other location is in Kansas). My kids enjoyed every moment and even transformed into mini paleontologists during our journey back in time. Read on for our prehistoric journey, and if dinosaurs aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other amusement parks in NJ for fun. (feature photo credit: NJ MOM)
Field Station: Dinosaurs
Get your passport stamps around the park
To start our journey back in time, the kids received trail maps and passports when we entered the park. We were thrilled to learn that they could show their passports and receive a stamp when they completed an activity. After six stamps, they would become super paleontologists and couldn’t wait to earn the status. Our first area to explore was the dinosaur trail. As we wandered down the path, we were greeted by life-size and very realistic-looking dinosaurs, from the T-Rex to Baryonyx—many even moved and roared at us as we walked by. The detail of each creature was amazing, and the dinos were fascinating to watch, not intimidating or scary. When the path meandered into the woods near a creek, things started getting real, and I actually felt we had landed in a real-life time machine to the dinosaur era.
Sing and dance with the dinosaurs
After taking lots of selfies with the dinosaurs, we reached the Amphitheater, where there are shows like T-Rex Feeding Frenzy and Little Tyrants. Luckily, we made it just in time for the next show. I was impressed by the performers as they sang and found imaginative ways to keep the audience engaged. Seeing my kids interacting with them was so much fun, and they raised their hands at every opportunity they could. The shows were entertaining, and I learned quite a few things about these prehistoric creatures (some dinos were even as small as a cat). We even got to meet the mighty T-Rex, and as a bonus, the kids got their first passport stamp.
Dig for fossils
Next, we headed to the Fossil Dig Site. This is an opportunity for younger kids to join paleontologists to see what it’s like to work on a real scientific expedition. Little paleontologists can also participate in dinosaur games like Mesozoic Concentration or Paleo Eye Spy so that they can learn while having fun. And before heading to the next adventure, little ones can play on the Stanley Stegosaurus, a themed jungle gym where they can climb and let loose.
Jump to be at eye level with a dinosaur
Exploring the grounds, it was hard not to miss the happy screams and sights of kids having a blast on the Jurassic Zoo Bouncer, an add-on ticket to the day pass (available online or at the box office). My kids headed straight for the bouncer, and I found an area to rest, where I could kick back while the kids had loads of fun.
Learn, explore, and become a paleontologist. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
Food, gifts, and other fun at Field Station: Dinosaurs
We started getting hungry when we finished exploring, so we headed over to the outdoor food area to grab something to eat. We found a reasonable kid-friendly fare of hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream, and drinks, with plenty of picnic tables to enjoy lunch. After, we made sure not to miss the cleverly named Tricera-Shops on the way out with prehistoric-themed gifts, books, and toys. Once we were home, my kids admired their passports and stamps, and we talked about what a unique and cool experience we had—Field Station: Dinosaurs in New Jersey gets two prehistoric thumbs up from us.
Get up close and personal with prehistoric creatures at Field Station: Dinosaurs in New Jersey. Photo Credit: NJ MOM
What to know before you go
The park is open seasonally from the end of May through November, and hours vary, so check the website before you go. Ticket prices start at $15 for a basic ticket online, with add-ons for the Jurassic Zoo Bouncer. Season passes are available for $129 for a family 4-pack. Overall, the experience took about two hours, including most shows. My kids wore sneakers because there is a bit of walking and meandering around the woods, and the park is stroller-friendly. There is a snack bar, and you can bring food, though large coolers are prohibited in the park.
Learn more about Field Station: Dinosaurs on their website, Facebook, and Instagram
Field Station: Dinosaurs
3 Overpeck Park Driveway
Leonia, NJ 07605
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