DAVENPORT, IOWA (August 6, 2026) — The Putnam Museum and Science Center invites dinosaur lovers of all ages to embark on a prehistoric adventure during Dino Days, taking place Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16, 2026.
For one exciting weekend, the Putnam Museum and Science Center will transform into a dinosaur-filled destination featuring hands-on activities, family entertainment, educational experiences, and blockbuster dinosaur-themed films. Please note that the museum will be closed to general admission guests during the event.
Guests will have the opportunity to meet a real paleontologist, come face-to-face with a life-sized Dilophosaurus, dig for fossils in a new GIANT Dino Dig, create prehistoric cave art, participate in dinosaur games and activities, enjoy face-painting, and snap memorable photos at the Dino Days photo booth.
Families can also indulge in a build-your-own dirt sundae bar, attend Storytimes, create dinosaur costumes, and march in a Dino Parade.
This year's event also offers a special chance to connect with the Putnam Dino Expedition team, where guests can learn more and ask questions about the Triceratops coming to the museum.
Guests can choose to experience either The Good Dinosaur or Jurassic Park on the Putnam's GIANT Screen.
Adding to the excitement, Dino Days will be one of the first major public events to showcase the Putnam GIANT Screen Theater's newly upgraded projection technology. The theater is receiving its first major technology upgrade in more than a decade, bringing enhanced image quality and an even more immersive viewing experience to the region's largest movie screen.
Additional highlights include:
- NEW! Giant Dino Dig (indoors)
- Meet a Paleontologist and Dilly the Dinosaur
- Face Painting
- Dino Costume Making & Parade
- Educational Activities in the Fab Lab
- Create Your Own Dirt Sundae Bar
- Dino Twister and Tricera-Toss
- Reptile Show (Saturday only)
- Pre-School Storytime
- Dino Hatchery & Adoption Add-On Experience
The event will also offer a Sensory Friendly Dino Days experience on Sunday morning, including a sensory-friendly screening of The Good Dinosaur.
TICKET OPTIONS:
Event Only: $15 (activities only, no movie)
General Admission: $25
Includes all activities and one movie of your choice
VIP: $50
Includes all activities, movie ticket, VIP seating, and exclusive Dino Days t-shirt
Ultimate VIP: $75
Includes all activities, movie ticket, VIP seating, Dino Days T-shirt, Dino Hatchery experience, and a small concessions combo
Tickets are on sale now.
To learn more and purchase tickets, visit: putnam.org/events/dino-days-2026/
About the Putnam
The Putnam Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, exists to preserve, educate, and connect people to the wonders of science, culture, and history. For more than 150 years, guests have experienced the Putnam’s permanent exhibits ranging from Unearthing Ancient Egypt to our family-favorite science galleries, as well as an array of programs and internationally-recognized traveling exhibits. The Putnam is dedicated to helping guests discover and explore in a friendly and engaging atmosphere.
For more information about events and exhibits, visit putnam.org.
