Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County - Chowchilla, California

Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County

The Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County is a fascinating natural history museum located at 19450 Ave 21 1/2, Chowchilla, CA 93610, United States. This specialized museum offers an immersive experience into the prehistoric world, showcasing an extensive collection of fossils and exhibits related to the area's rich paleontological heritage.

Visitors are welcomed by a short video that provides an overview of the fascinating discoveries made in the region, setting the stage for an educational and engaging experience. The museum is home to numerous displays featuring fossils and artifacts from the local area, providing a hands-on and interactive learning environment for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of the Fossil Discovery Center is the outdoor pond habitat, a delightful walkway where visitors can observe local flora and fauna in a serene setting. The museum is known for its well-maintained exhibits and spacious grounds, offering an enjoyable experience for both children and adults alike.

For those interested in hands-on activities, the museum features a special area where children can participate in fossil digging, creating an unforgettable memory and fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Additionally, the easy freeway access makes it a convenient stop for travelers and locals alike.

The Fossil Discovery Center also boasts a charming gift shop, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and educational materials to further their interest in paleontology. The museum is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the exhibits comfortably. On-site amenities include a restaurant and wheelchair-accessible facilities, making it a comprehensive destination for families and individuals seeking an educational and enjoyable experience.

With an impressive average rating of 4.6/5 based on 401 reviews on Google My Business, the Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County has garnered a strong reputation for its engaging exhibits, informative presentations, and commitment to providing an exceptional visitor experience. Whether you are a history buff, a science enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, the Fossil Discovery Center is an excellent choice that transcends age and interest barriers.

Specialties: Natural history museum, Museum, Science museum, Tourist attraction

Other points of interest: On-site services, Wheelchair-accessible car park, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible toilet, Gift shop, Offers tours, Toilet, Restaurant, Admission fee, Good for kids

Website: maderamammoths.org

Phone: 5596657107

👍 Reviews of Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County

Debbie B.

5/5

Really nice facility. We started with a short video about the discovery made and the background information. There are many displays of fossils and other things from the area. The outside pond habitat is a nice walk where you can see local plants and trees. Very well maintained.

Trina A.

4/5

Not real big but still a nice museum. Great for kids. They have a spot for kids where they can dig up certain fossils. It has easy off and on freeway access. And a small nature area outside. Cute little gift shop inside to buy souvenirs.

Nicolas A.

5/5

PBS Family Circle event brought us here. Very cool and informative. Lots of stuff to look at. A dig site that young ones can practice there Fossil digging skills. Our boys (2&3) could not quit grasp the don't throw sand aspect as well as other rules. I'd say the 3rd graders and up could really have a go at the finer skills needed to properly dig up fossils. Speaking of fossils, you can get an actual piece of the old Mammoth Orange that sat off the 99 at the gift shop here.

Mel I.

5/5

I loved this place! It's super fascinating to learn more about an area close to my hometown and what lived here before us. All of the staff was incredibly helpful and kind. Their gift shop was amazing with awesome prices.

Victoria M.

5/5

Went for their first annual Halloween event! It was a little chaotic(understandable for a first run at the event) but my kids had a lot of fun..until my youngest decided he wanted to go home lol Can't wait to visit during the day time!

Karra G.

4/5

Nice museum for a field trip. I'm not sure I would pay the entrance fee to take my family. It's pretty small for the entrance fee.

Mrs. V. G. -. M.

5/5

Friendly staff, lots of things to look at, great for a school fieldtrip, great for little ones, very clean, accessible, has snacks for sale & a gift shop, explains the history of the museum with a video, play area for the kids to dig for fossils, station to change the babies, some shade outside.

bartellj

5/5

Fascinating place! Back in 1993 workers at the landfill discovered fossilized mammoth bones. That sparked paleontologists to start digging and now they found over 1000 fossilized bones from several different species. The museum is very educational. Great place for kids and a lot of the exhibits are hands-on. And on the weekends you can even go dig for fossils in their mock fossil pit.