Visit the Prehistoric Gardens

This is an Oregon trip that sure to bring smiles – especially if you have kids.

Claiming a place among the many roadside attractions along Oregon’s Highway 101 Coastal Route, the Prehistoric Gardens were founded in Port Orford in 1995. Since then, the site has been enchanting visitors who stop to see the 23 life-sized dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures hidden in the ancient temperate rainforest the theme park is situated on.

Where did these dinosaurs come from? The park is the vision of the late E.V. “Ernie” Nelson, who retired as a CPA in 1953 to pursue his passions: art and dinosaurs. A prehistoric-themed park was the natural next step. After three years of construction, trips to the Smithsonian, and much research to insure the models were accurate, Nelson opened his Prehistoric Gardens.

Today the park is still in the ownership of the Nelson family. Visitors can go on a self-guided tour through the trail, which takes about 20 min to complete. Enjoy the true-to-size dinosaurs, including the massive Brachiosaurus that towers 46 feet above the ground. The gravel path and flat terrain makes this adventure stroller and wheelchair accessible. Dogs are welcome.

Admission:

Adults — $12.00

Children (3 to 12 yrs) — $8.00

Seniors (60+ yrs) — $10.00

Littlefoots (2 and under) — FREE

Hours:

10am to 5pm – Spring/Fall

9am to 6pm – Summer

Call 1-541-332-4463 for winter hours

Add to the Discussion (1)

Rick

8 years ago

Fun! And it seems like a great patch of forest to explore. I was a HUGE dinosaur fan as a kid and all the kids I know now are, too. :)

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