These days it can be rare to find staff that are truly engaged and/or happy to serve others,…read moreregardless of where you choose to spend your money and time (restaurant, museum, etc.). This place was an exception. Every staff member we encountered, from the ticketing/check-in clerks, to the dig site guides, to those positioned throughout the exhibits, were genuinely friendly and proactive in engaging us.
Our group consisted of two moms and two kids under 7, and we spent time at the dig site (on a particularly hot day) along with the museum. At the dig site several guides came up to us and offered personal insight and aid, checking to see if we had any questions and taking care to ensure we each found something interesting. One of the guides, Jeff, took time to passionately inform us about the details of different specimens, encouraged us in our digging, and helped us find a beautiful shark tooth. Another, Chris, kindly redirected us to another good spot to dig, then stuck around and produced several cool finds which he gave us to take home. Every interaction felt like it was an overflow of genuine excitement from the staff; it's clear they enjoy what they do, know their subject matter, and are eager to share with others in the spirit of learning. They also were patient and friendly enough to engage the kids.
The grounds themselves were also beautifully curated; a thoughtful integration of natural landscape and native plant installations (like blueberry bushes) that felt tasteful and balanced. We loved the rustic material choices of the museum's facade, and the playground was the coolest design we'd ever seen.
Inside, the lobby was bright, cheerful, clean, and full of yet more friendly staff that were eager to greet and guide us to next steps.
The exhibits were engaging, with different interactive elements for kids, and a game they could play to rack up points as they visited various stations. The info plaques felt just right, not overwhelming. Downstairs you could peer into a real, active lab with ongoing restorations going on, and enjoy many kid friendly exhibits like a room full of interesting critters complete with a touch tank.
The layout flowed well and felt like just the right size for a fun wander after an hour roasting in the sun without leaving you with the info fatigue that's so common in bigger museums like The Met or Museum of Natural History.
The cafe had a nice selection of drinks and gluten free snacks which was appreciated. We didn't end up eating or visiting the gift shop based on where the kids were at by the end of the trip, but they both looked enticing.
All in all, we can't wait to come back with more family. It was really a joy to explore every aspect of this place, and totally worth the 1.5+ hour drive.