Edelman Fossil Park & Museum to Open in 2025, Showcasing Unique Fossil Ecosystem from Dinosaur Extinction

The Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University is scheduled to open in March 2025, representing a significant development for paleontology and science education. This state-of-the-art facility will offer visitors an unparalleled journey through Earth's prehistoric past, with a primary focus on the age of dinosaurs and the period surrounding the asteroid impact that led to their extinction 66 million years ago. What sets this museum apart is its unique feature as the only known preserved fossil ecosystem from the exact moment of this cataclysmic event, providing a snapshot of life at one of the most pivotal moments in Earth's history.

Dr. Kenneth Lacovara, founding executive director of the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, emphasizes the significance of the site, noting it opens a window onto the profound events of the fifth mass extinction during which dinosaurs and 75% of species perished. The museum boasts an impressive array of features designed to engage visitors of all ages, including immersive galleries with reconstructions of giant prehistoric species, hands-on Discovery Forest and Critter Cove with live animal encounters, and opportunities for visitors to participate in real fossil digs both indoors and in the active research quarry on-site.

Additional attractions include a free-roaming virtual reality experience, museum store, café, theater, scenic nature trails, and paleontology-themed playground. The museum's location in southern New Jersey is particularly significant due to the region's rich paleontological history, with over 100,000 fossils from more than 100 species unearthed at the site including remains of mosasaurs, marine crocodiles, sea turtles, and sharks. This wealth of prehistoric material underscores the area's importance in understanding Earth's past.

Beyond its educational role, the museum is committed to promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness with eco-friendly features including geothermal and electric systems that significantly reduce its carbon footprint. This focus on sustainability extends to the museum's mission to inspire visitors to take action toward creating a greener future. The creation of the museum was made possible through a generous donation from Rowan University alumni Jean & Ric Edelman, with design by Ennead Architects, KSS Architects, and G&A, and landscape design by SEED Design/Yaki Miodovnik.

As the opening date approaches, the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum is poised to become a world-class destination for scientific discovery and interactive learning, offering visitors a chance to explore the mysteries of Earth's past while contemplating the challenges of its future. For more information about the museum and upcoming ticket sales, interested parties can visit efm.org.