New Edelman Fossil Park & Museum to Open in March 2025, Offering Unique Dinosaur Experience

In a significant development for paleontology enthusiasts and science education, the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University (EFM) is set to open its doors in March 2025. Located just minutes from Philadelphia, this state-of-the-art facility promises to offer visitors an unparalleled journey through prehistoric times, with a particular focus on the age of dinosaurs.

The museum's unique selling point is its ability to provide guests with the opportunity to dig for real fossils at the only known site preserving a fossil ecosystem from the moment of the asteroid impact that led to the extinction of dinosaurs. This feature alone positions EFM as a must-visit destination for both casual visitors and serious paleontology enthusiasts.

Beyond fossil hunting, the museum will boast immersive galleries featuring life-sized reconstructions of prehistoric creatures, a Discovery Forest for hands-on learning, and Critter Cove for live animal encounters. Advanced technology plays a key role in the visitor experience, with an indoor fossil hunt powered by RFID technology and a free-roaming virtual reality experience.

Dr. Kenneth Lacovara, founding executive director of EFM, emphasizes the museum's significance: "This is not just a museum—it's a gateway to a breathtaking chapter of Earth's history." He highlights the museum's role in educating visitors about the fifth mass extinction and its relevance to current environmental challenges.

The museum's location in southern New Jersey, an area renowned for its paleontological importance, adds to its credibility. The site has already yielded over 100,000 fossils from more than 100 species, including mosasaurs and marine crocodiles, underscoring its scientific value.

Importantly, EFM is designed with sustainability at its core, featuring geothermal and electric systems to reduce its carbon footprint. This approach aligns with the museum's mission to inspire positive change and prioritize the planet's future.

The opening of the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum represents a significant addition to the scientific and educational landscape of the region. By offering a unique blend of hands-on experiences, cutting-edge technology, and important lessons about Earth's history and future, EFM is poised to become a leading institution in paleontology education and environmental awareness.