By Contributing Blogger, Amanda Gurall
Field Station: Dinosaurs is the newest dino attraction in the New York area and it is one not to miss. Located in Secaucus and easily accessible by car ($10 parking fee) or a very easy trip from NJ Transit are 31 life sized animatronic dinosaurs. Everything from the Parasaurolophus to T-Rexes can be seen at nearly every turn through the meadowlands location. The park is set up like an actual field station and both the design as well as the employees do a great job at creating an immersive experience. When we turned the first corner and came across the first few dinosaurs even I forgot where we were for a second, and my dinosaur obsessed daughter was in heaven!
In addition to the actual dinos, there are lots of activities to keep kids of all ages busy. They can dig for bones in a huge sand pit, play a Jeopardy style game to test their dino-knowledge, listen to the great roaming musician and watch several live shows. 
The shows were held in a small ampitheater space with big rocks and camping stools to sit on. Tip: Arrive about 20 minutes early so you can try to nab a spot on the side under the shady tree.
There is a very convincing trainer who treats this like a regular zoo exhibit as we fed a five year old T-Rex and pet baby dinosaurs held in slings. It may be *too* realistic for some kids, if you think your child will be scared during the T-Rex feeding frenzy hold them in your lap or sit towards the back.
There are awnings for shade throughout the park but it can still get pretty hot and very crowded as the day goes on, do yourself a favor and get there right at opening time to make it even more enjoyable. There is a nice sized covered picnic table area, you are welcome to bring in your own food which is a great money saver! The park currently offers popcorn, drinks, ices and hot dogs as well. If you are bringing someone in diapers be forewarned you must bring your own changing pad or blanket and find a spot to change them. There are nice trailer port-a-potties available for everyone else.
Many parks and events are very rigid in their structure and timing, I loved that we could take our time (or not) at each dinosaur and activity. There is also a supervised coloring area and a Lego building area which is fantastic for kids to get a break. Being a palentologist is hard work! To exit the park you must walk through the gift shop and I found there was a nice range of prices and anyone should be able to find a little token to take home. Field Station: Dinosaurs was a fantastic experience, well designed and well thought out for families. It is open from 10 am- 6pm from June-September 3rd but weekends only (same hours) from September 4- November 11th (when it will close for the season).
Buy your discounted tickets today at fieldstationdinosaurs.com
Children (ages 3-12) $17.50
Adults $20.00
Seniors (65 years) $17.50
Ages 2 and under Free
Ticket prices do not include a $1.00 per ticket processing fee and 7% sales tax.
Box office admission
Children (ages 3-12) $20.00
Adults $25.00
Seniors (65 years) $20.00
Ages 2 and under Free
Box office ticket prices do not include 7% sales tax.
Season Memberships
Adults $54.00
Children $48
Thank you to MamaDramaNY for complimentary tickets. As always, opinions are our own.
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