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Step Back in Time: The Dinosaur Place in Oakdale, CT

Just a few miles from U.S. Route 1 in Oakdale, Connecticut, The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village feels like stepping into another era entirely. Towering dinosaur statues rise above the trees, winding trails lead through prehistoric scenes, and giant creatures seem to appear around every corner.

It’s part outdoor adventure, part family attraction, and completely different from your average roadside stop.

Why It’s Worth the Stop

The Dinosaur Place features more than 50 life-sized dinosaur sculptures spread throughout wooded walking trails, creating a mix of nature walk and prehistoric playground. Kids race ahead looking for the next dinosaur while adults find themselves just as entertained by the scale and detail of the displays.

There are interactive exhibits, splash areas in summer, and enough winding paths to make the place feel surprisingly immersive. Even if you’re not traveling with children, the sheer novelty of seeing giant dinosaurs tucked into the Connecticut woods makes this stop memorable.

Know Before You Go

Location: 1650 Hartford-New London Tpke, Oakdale, CT — about 4 miles from U.S. Route 1
Season: Typically open spring through fall
Admission: Paid entry
Parking: Free on-site parking
Accessibility: Mostly stroller-friendly walking paths
Pro Tip: Go earlier in the day during summer — trails can get warm in the afternoon sun