Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology
Alberta
The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, located in Drumheller, Alberta, is Canada's premier palaeontology museum and research facility. Named after Joseph Burr Tyrrell, the geologist who discovered the first reported dinosaur fossil in the Red Deer River valley, the museum showcases over 160,000 cataloged fossils, including more than 350 holotypes, making it the largest fossil collection in Canada. Opened in 1985, the museum features approximately 800 fossils on public display within a 12,500-square-metre building designed by BCW Architects and expanded twice in the 21st century. Exhibits span 3.9 billion years of life on Earth, offering visitors an immersive journey through geological and palaeontological history. The museum also supports active research programs, contributing to global palaeontological knowledge. Its modern facilities include the ATCO Tyrrell Learning Centre and a learning lounge annex, enhancing educational and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.
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Tip: The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the museum's full range of exhibits and outdoor activities are accessible. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry. The museum offers discounts for seniors, students, and groups. Visitors should allocate at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the exhibits fully. Check the official website for current opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •The museum holds over 160,000 cataloged fossils, including more than 350 holotypes, the largest such collection in Canada.
- •It was named after Joseph Burr Tyrrell, who discovered the first reported dinosaur fossil in the Red Deer River valley in 1884.
- •The museum participated in the China-Canada Dinosaur Project, marking a significant collaboration between Chinese and Western palaeontologists after decades of limited contact.
- •The building was designed by BCW Architects and has been expanded twice, in 2003 and 2019, to accommodate growing exhibits and educational facilities.
History
The museum was conceived in the late 1970s and officially announced by the Alberta government in 1981 as part of a broader initiative to promote provincial museums.
Construction took place in Midland Provincial Park near Drumheller, opening to the public in September 1985.
Initially named the Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology after Joseph Tyrrell, it was granted the prefix 'Royal' by Queen Elizabeth II in June 1990.
The museum has undergone two significant expansions: the first in 2003 adding the ATCO Tyrrell Learning Centre, and the second in 2019 with the addition of a learning lounge annex to enhance interactive exhibits and educational programming.
Place Guide
Main Fossil Galleries
These galleries showcase approximately 800 fossils from the museum's extensive collection, illustrating the evolution of life over 3.9 billion years. Visitors can observe dinosaur skeletons, ancient marine creatures, and other significant prehistoric specimens.
ATCO Tyrrell Learning Centre2003
Added in 2003, this annex provides educational spaces and interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors, especially students, in palaeontology and earth sciences.
Learning Lounge Annex2019
Opened in 2019, this expansion introduced a learning lounge with more hands-on exhibits and activities, responding to visitor feedback for interactive experiences.
Contact
Phone: (403) 823-7707
