DINOSAUR WORLD

5145 Harvey Tew Road
Plant City, Florida 33565
813-717-9865

Dinosaur World Will Make You Go Prehistoric

Dinosaur World in Plant City, Florida, is a time machine disguised as a theme park, whisking your family back to the Mesozoic Era where dinosaurs roam in a lush, tropical setting.

This quirky roadside attraction, conveniently nestled between Orlando and Tampa, remains a beloved gem for kids and adults alike, offering a blend of education, entertainment, and good old-fashioned fun.

If your little ones (or you!) are obsessed with T-Rexes, Triceratops, or the mysteries of prehistory, Dinosaur World is a must-visit stop on your Florida adventure.

Here’s what’s new and exciting at this prehistoric playground in 2025.

Entrance to Dinosaur World, Plant City

A Jurassic Journey Through Time

As you step into Dinosaur World, the modern world fades away, replaced by a "Jurassic Park"-style landscape teeming with over 200 life-size dinosaur replicas.

From the ferocious Tyrannosaurus Rex to the gentle, long-necked Brachiosaurus, these meticulously crafted sculptures are scattered across 20 acres of shady boardwalks and native Florida flora.

The park’s setting—a former swamp turned prehistoric rainforest—creates an immersive experience, with dinosaurs peeking out from behind palms or looming over pathways.

It’s a place where kids can let their imaginations run wild, and parents can enjoy a relaxed, crowd-free alternative to Florida’s mega-parks.

New for 2025, Dinosaur World has introduced the Mammoths in the Giants of the Ice Age exhibit, where life-size woolly mammoths and other Ice Age creatures join the dinosaur lineup.

This addition expands the park’s prehistoric scope, offering a glimpse into the world after the dinosaurs vanished.

The mammoths, with their shaggy fur and massive tusks, are a hit with visitors, especially during the interactive “Mammoth Encounter” sessions, where guides share fascinating facts about these ancient giants.

Yellow Belly Dinosaurs
Flickr/Richard Elzey

More Than Just a Walk in the Park

Dinosaur World isn’t just about admiring dinosaurs from afar—it’s packed with hands-on activities that make learning fun.

The Fossil Dig remains a favorite, where kids can channel their inner paleontologist, sifting through sand to uncover real fossils to take home (three per child, included with admission).

The Boneyard lets families play archaeologist, brushing away sand to reveal a life-size Stegosaurus skeleton.

For a sparkly twist, the Dino Gem Mine allows visitors to pan for real gems and minerals, and the Geode Cracker lets you split open your own geode to reveal dazzling crystals inside.

The park’s Exploration Cave Show has been revamped for 2025, now featuring a more interactive guided tour with a paleontologist who brings the dinosaur era to life with stories and artifacts.

Afterward, test your dino knowledge at the Triviasaurus Rex Game Show, a lively, family-friendly competition that’s equal parts educational and entertaining.

Another new addition is the Touch-and-Tell exhibit, where kids reach into a mystery hole to guess which dinosaur they’re feeling—without peeking!

For younger visitors, the dino-themed playgrounds have been upgraded with new slides, swings, and climbing structures, ensuring plenty of space to burn off energy.

The Dino Express, a jungle-themed train ride, is now included in the Excavation Pass, offering a fun way to explore the park’s sprawling grounds.

And don’t miss the Florida Fossils Museum, a recent addition showcasing fossils native to the Sunshine State, complementing the park’s indoor Prehistoric Museum with its animatronic dinosaurs and real artifacts.

We Hungry at Dinosaur World
Flickr/Richard Elzey

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Dinosaur World is located at 5145 Harvey Tew Road, Plant City, FL 33565, just off Exit 17 on I-4 (turn north onto Branch Forbes Road, then left onto Harvey Tew Road).

The park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM) from February to November.

Admission prices as of 2025 are approximately $24.95 for adults, $19.95 for kids (ages 3-12), and $22.95 for seniors, though discounts are often available online or for groups.

The Excavation Pass, which includes extras like the Fossil Dig and Dino Express, is a great value at around $10 additional per person.

One of Dinosaur World’s standout features is its dog-friendly policy—leashed, well-behaved pups are welcome throughout the park, making it a rare Florida attraction where the whole family, furry friends included, can join the fun.

The park’s picnic area is perfect for a budget-friendly lunch, with plenty of shaded tables to enjoy a meal alongside your dino neighbors.

The 5,000-square-foot gift shop offers prehistoric-themed treats, toys, and gorgeous geodes, though you’ll want to set a budget before the kids spot the plush T-Rexes!

Spike at Dinosaur World
Flickr/Richard Elzey

Why Kids Love It (And Parents Do Too)

There’s something magical about Dinosaur World that captivates kids more than even the flashiest theme parks.

Maybe it’s the thrill of walking among life-size dinosaurs, some so realistic that visitors swear they see them move.

Or perhaps it’s the freedom to explore at their own pace, with no long lines or overpriced snacks.

The park’s low-key vibe and open spaces make it ideal for families seeking a stress-free outing, and the educational elements sneak in just enough learning to spark curiosity without feeling like a classroom.

Recent visitors rave about the park’s thoughtful layout, with wide, stroller-friendly boardwalks and plenty of shade to keep everyone cool.

The addition of the Doom of the Dinosaurs exhibit, an educational tour exploring the extinction event, has been a hit with school groups, while the park’s field trip packages (starting at $10 per student) include activities like the Fossil Dig and Gem Mine.

For birthday parties, Dinosaur World now offers food delivery options, making it easier to host a roaring good time.

Sharp Tooth at Dinosaur World
Flickr/Richard Elzey

A Slice of Roadside Americana

Dinosaur World isn’t trying to compete with Disney or Universal—it’s proudly a slice of Florida’s roadside Americana, complete with a giant T-Rex visible from I-4.

Founded by Swedish entrepreneur Christer Svensson, the park has grown from its origins as Gator Jungle into the world’s largest dinosaur park, with over 200 sculptures crafted with scientific precision.

Its global roots (dinosaurs are made in Sweden and shipped to Florida) add a quirky twist to its all-American charm.

Whether you’re a local looking for a fun day trip or a tourist seeking something beyond the usual Florida suspects, Dinosaur World delivers a prehistoric adventure that’s both affordable and unforgettable.

So pack a picnic lunch, leash up the dog, and prepare to go “prehistoric” with your family at this one-of-a-kind Florida treasure.

For details or to purchase tickets, visit www.dinosaurworld.com or call (813) 717-9865.