(StatePoint) Kentucky has more than its share of history. From the last 250 years of American history to the history of the Indigenous Tribes that lived here for centuries before that, all of it adds to Kentucky’s rich and vibrant story.
As captivating as Kentucky history can be, some visitors might dig something even older. Something prehistoric perhaps. What does Kentucky have for people interested in history before…well…people?
The Bluegrass State is home to all kinds of archaeological and prehistoric fun.
Whether the dino-fanatics in your family are age 3 or 99, a stop at Dinosaur World makes an unforgettable adventure. Located in Cave City, 40 minutes north of Bowling Green, this park features an immersive experience that recreates the natural habitats of the “terrible lizards” that once roamed the earth. As you wander through the Jurassic Jungle, you will be met with life sized dinosaurs that move, roar, and delight all passersby.
In addition to Jurassic Jungle, Dinosaur World also features Uncle Rex’s Gem Mine and Aunt Cera’s Fossil Dig. Both exhibits allow visitors to sift through the soil in search of fossils and treasure. Also, Dinosaur World recently introduced Dig Zone, an interactive exhibit that allows visitors to operate miniature excavators while searching for fossils.
In northern Kentucky, less than an hour-and-a-half northeast of Louisville, is Big Bone Lick State Historic Site. This recently named National Historic Landmark has been the site of multiple fossil discoveries since the 1700s. Bones belonging to prehistoric mammals, including mammoths, mastodons, ground sloths, bison, stag-moose, and a forerunner of the modern-day horse have been found in that area over the last few centuries.
Visitors can learn about all the above at the museum located in the park’s visitor center. It highlights Big Bone Lick’s unique history as a park as well as features exhibits on Ordovician and Pleistocene fossils, indigenous lifeways and artifacts, and so much more.
Directly behind the museum is the half-mile paved Discovery Trail, which takes visitors past the Megafauna diorama pit, as well as interpretive panels that detail what the environment was like during the last Ice Age.
The fun does not stop with the museum and trail. If you prefer living animals, Big Bone Lick is home to a bison herd that can be observed roaming in their enclosure. Also, do not miss the orienteering course, campgrounds, playgrounds, miles of hiking trails and an 18-hole miniature golf course.
For more information on planning your Bluegrass Jurassic adventure, go to www.kentuckytourism.com.
These two attractions are just the beginning of a long list of places dedicated to uncovering and understanding the Bluegrass State’s rich and vibrant history.
