Dinosaurs and More Club
For students who just can’t get enough dinosaurs. Dino Club brings youth together to explore paleontology through hands-on activities, fossil discoveries, museum collections, field experiences, and conversations with scientists and fossil enthusiasts.
When: Third Tuesday of the month
Where: Burpee Museum, Rockford Illinois
Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm
Attend one club session or attend them all! We look forward to meeting you!
Burpee Clubs: Communities of Curiosity
Pricing:
Drop In Admission – $25 (Best for First-time visitors, occasional participants, friends joining for a session)
Class pricing includes museum admission for the participant
Burpee Museum Member – $5 (Best for regular attendees who want the best value)
Introduction to Dino Club
September 8, 2026 at 6:00pm
Welcome to Dino Club! Join Burpee in a tour of all things dinosaurs in the museum. Learn more about the exhibits on the floor. Dive back into the laboratory and even collections to see the behind-the-scenes activities normal people cannot see. Jump in and prepare for many exciting clubs to come!
Plaster and Casts
October 20, 2026 at 6:00pm
Ever wonder how paleontologists protect fossils? Join us to discover how scientists use plaster to create protective layers and cradles for real fossils and keep these priceless specimens intact. Then, get hands-on and work with plaster, burlap, and fossils to take your paleontology skills to the next level!
Collections Management
November 17, 2026 at 6:00pm
Join us for a look inside Burpee Museum’s paleontology collections area! Discover how scientists organize, identify, and keep track of fossils using labels and classification systems. Then, help place newly prepared fossils into collections. You’ll even learn how fossils make their way from the collections cabinets to museum exhibits for everyone to enjoy!
Molding and Casting
December 15, 2026 at 6:00pm
Have you ever made your own fossils before? Come learn how paleontologists make molds and casts of fossils to create exhibits, research, or even sale. Get ready to mix silicone to make your own replica fossil just like ones on display. Maybe you can even take one home.
Dino Detectives
January 19, 2027 at 6:00pm
We’re on the hunt for dinosaurs! Help paleontologists search the museum for hints, clues, and leads to find bones re-lost to time. Uncover their secrets. Put on your sleuthing hats and see if you are observant enough to find them. Make sure to bring your fellow detectives to help!
Dino Tracks
February 16, 2027 at 6:00pm
Think you can make a dino-sized footprint? Come to Dino Club to look at fossil trackways and other trace fossils to discover what they can tell us about dinosaur movement. Learn how paleontologist use these clues to tell about behavior and movement. Follow the tracks and make your own at Dino Club.
FAQ
What is the instructional level of these sessions?
These programs are crafted for ages 7 to 11 years old with parents seeking introductory scientific activities.
Will we be looking at real research specimens?
Yes. A defining highlight of this program is exclusive, behind-the-scenes engagement. Each session incorporates real fossil casts, biological structures, or rare back-of-house archival specimens pulled directly from the Burpee Museum research collections.
Do I need a prior background in science or paleontology to attend?
Not at all. While the concepts discussed are intellectually stimulating, our educational team structures the lectures to be completely accessible to anyone possessing a deep curiosity about the natural world.
Do I need to register for the entire season, or can I attend single months?
You can choose your own path. While many of our members attend monthly to build deep connections with our learning community, each session is completely self-contained. You are welcome to purchase individual passes for specific topics that capture your interest.
Is there walking or physical activity involved during the program?
Sessions primarily consist of a seated presentation followed by an activity. Specimens and items from collections will be brought out to the presentation. Occasional brief, optional walks onto the main museum floor exhibits are included to view full-scale skeletons, with the entire facility being fully wheelchair and elevator accessible.
