Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum

Perched atop a mesa in the remote Queensland outback, the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum is a world-class fossil museum that offers an immersive journey into the continent's prehistoric past. With its vast collection of dinosaur fossils, including the massive 'Banjo' the Australotitan, this museum is a must-visit for any traveller with a passion for palaeontology or natural history. The museum's location provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a unique destination that blends science with the raw beauty of the Australian bush.

Highlights & What to See

• Fossil Preparation Laboratory: Watch skilled preparators uncover dinosaur bones in the state-of-the-art lab, where you can see the meticulous work that goes into revealing ancient remains.
• Collection Room: Home to the largest collection of Australian dinosaur fossils on display, including the towering skeleton of Australotitan cooperensis, a recent giant sauropod discovery.
• Dinosaur Stampede: A fascinating exhibit dedicated to the Lark Quarry dinosaur trackways, which preserve evidence of a prehistoric stampede.
• Outback Viewing Platform: Take in the sweeping vistas of the Thompson River valley from the museum's elevated position—a perfect spot for photography.
• Guided Tours: Join a knowledgeable guide to delve deeper into the region's geological history and the stories behind the fossils.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least 2–3 hours to fully appreciate the museum's exhibits and the fossil preparation lab. If you're a keen dinosaur enthusiast, consider spending half a day to join a guided tour and explore the outdoor areas. The museum is best visited in the cooler months (April–October) to avoid the intense outback heat. Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby town of Winton for a complete outback experience.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Winton: The nearest town, offering accommodation, dining, and the Australian Heritage Festival. Also home to the Waltzing Matilda Centre.
• Lark Quarry Conservation Park: See the actual dinosaur trackways preserved in situ, about 110 km southwest of Winton.
• Bush Tucker and Opal Fields: Explore the outback landscapes and opal mining areas around Opalton and the Yowah Nut opal fields.
• Longreach: A major outback hub with the Qantas Founders Museum and the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame, about 2 hours' drive east.
• Bladensburg National Park: A scenic park with ancient rock formations and wildlife, perfect for a bushwalk or picnic.

Please check official sources for current details.