Just across the river from Philadelphia sits one of the most extraordinary hands-on science destinations in the world. Edelman Fossil Park & Museum (EFM) isn’t just a museum—it’s one of the only places on Earth where the public can dig for real fossils dating back 66 millions years, right where they were discovered. Even better? This bucket-list worthy experience is only about 30 minutes from Center City, making it an easy day trip for Philly locals craving something wildly different.
Set on 123 acres overlooking an active, fossil-rich quarry, EFM blends adventure, education, and awe into a full-day escape that feels worlds away but incredibly close to home.
What is Edelman Fossil Park & Museum?
Jean and Ric Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University is a first-of-its-kind institution designed to transport visitors back to the age of dinosaurs while inspiring curiosity about our planet’s future. Built on land where over 100,000 fossils representing more than 100 species have been discovered, EFM offers an unfiltered look at the ancient, often brutal world that once existed here.
The experience is immersive and hands-on, transforming kids, adults, and lifelong learners into true explorers.
Can’t-miss exhibits inside the museum
Inside the museum, guests can explore a range of interactive galleries and headline exhibits, including:
- Dinosaur Coast – Discover the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this region
- Monstrous Seas – Dive into the terrifying marine predators of the ancient oceans
- Hall of Extinction & Hope – A powerful look at mass extinction, survival, and conservation
You’ll also encounter full-scale dinosaur replicas, live animal encounters, an interactive fossil scavenger hunt, free-roaming virtual reality experiences, and conservation-focused collections that connect past biodiversity to present-day climate challenges.
The Quarry Fossil Dig Experience
Indeed, the star attraction—and what truly sets EFM apart—is its active research quarry dig. This is the same site that made the fossil park famous, and it’s where visitors can step directly into the role of a paleontologist.
Guided by learning specialists, guests can dig into the quarry to uncover real marine fossils and, on rare occasions, dinosaur bones. These finds contribute to ongoing scientific research conducted by Rowan University students and scientists, giving visitors a genuine role in discovery while learning the story hidden beneath their feet.
Important things to know abut the Quarry:
- This site has yielded over 100,000 fossils, including mosasaurs, sea turtles, and shark teeth
- Your 75-minute adventure includes about 45 minutes of hands-on digging
- Keep up to three fossils from your find
- Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toed shoes (rubber boots recommended)
- All guests who enter the quarry need a ticket; children 2 and under are free
- Visitors must be at least 16 to dig independently
- The Quarry Fossil Dig experience will reopen in Spring 2026
Getting to Edelman Fossil Park & Museum from Philadelphia
EFM is located in Mantua Township, New Jersey, making it an easy 30-minute drive from Philadelphia. it’s a perfect short escape for families, curious adults, or anyone looking to swap city streets for prehistoric adventure.
Voted one of the 10Best New Museums by USAToday, Edelman Fossil Park & Museum is a must-visit! Head over to their official website to learn more and start planning your great prehistoric escape.