Sunday afternoon fun!  Our family finally made it down to see the Dinosaur exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, which has been extended through June 14.

Both kids had a great time, even though Ethan was a little scared of the dinosaurs until he saw that they were really robots.  That's a testament to how life-like the creatures looked.  We stayed away from the movie screen, which featured a graphic portrayal of one dinosaur being preyed upon by several others.  I think this specific display would especially appeal to boys 7 and up.

Probably the favorite activity in the Dinosaur exhibit was the archeological "dig" where kids use two inch wide paint brushes to brush away rice from the fossils that lurk below.  We also had fun pushing buttons to operate the mechanical dinosaur, playing computer games, and making dinosaur art.

My husband and I were shocked to learn that brontosaurus is an obsolete term that has been replaced by Apatosaurus.  I'm not going to tell you why...you'll just have to visit the museum to find out.

After spending over an hour in the exhibit, we headed down to the main level for carousel rides.  What a treat!  I appreciate the extensive work done to restore the carousel to its former glory.  The kids had a fabulous time as well.

We did not get to see the planetarium show because we had to break for Norah's afternoon nap.  I would love to hear your opinion of the planetarium show that accompanies the Dinosaur exhibit.  Is it worth it?  What age range do you recommend?

You'll want to plan to make it down to the Dinosaur Exhibit if you haven't done it yet.

One great way to save your family money is to head to the Dinosaur Discovery Days that are held in the evenings. 

Here are the details:

$10 Discovery Night package ticket price.

June 8-12 from 5-9 pm.

On these nights, entry is $10 per person for Museum admission, special exhibit admission, a planetarium show, carousel rides and a pizza meal.

Along with moving, roaring dinosaurs, the exhibit includes several interactive stations - including a Magic Tree House, large 3D floor puzzles, a cozy reading corner, a puppet theater and a dinosaur dig box, where kids ages 1-12 can make believe.

Enjoy!  Remember to tell them that you found out about it on Grand Rapids Kids