Dinosaurs Take Over Downtown Wheaton

A viscous roar is heard from Front Street. The Wheaton Promenade has turned into a prehistoric paradise. Dinos have taken over downtown Wheaton! 

From Sept. 25 to Oct. 8, Dinos Downtown Wheaton is bringing 10 life-size animatronic dinosaurs to the downtown area. The dinosaurs move and roar, and are true to the size and appearance of the real-life creatures that walked the earth 65 million years ago. 

Spot iconic dinos like Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops, or learn about rarer, lesser-known Jurassic creatures like the Minmi.

Local shops and restaurants will be getting into the dinosaur fun with dino-themed products, activities and menu items, like Tea-Rex or Fossil-lemonade beverages from The Protein Spot.

The outdoor exhibit is free to families, but optional Dino Day Activity Passes (priced at $25) are available. Each activity pass includes a dino-themed beverage, coupons to downtown businesses and your choice of either a guided walking tour or a ticket to The Dinosaur Improv Show at Westside Improv. 

Walking tours are led by Paleo Joe, a professional paleontologist, children’s book author and real-life dinosaur digger. Paleo Joe will guide your family to all 10 dinosaurs while sharing fun dino facts and stories from his own experiences. Walking tours are offered on Sept. 29-30. 

Your second option for dino-mite family fun, The Dinosaur Improv Show, will have your family roaring with laughter. The interactive comedy show will improvise sketches, songs and games based on audience suggestions — all dino-themed, of course. 

The outdoor attraction also offers an educator guide that is perfect for hosting tour groups and field trips. 

Ready for your family’s prehistoric exploration of downtown Wheaton? Here are the dino details you’ll need to know before you go. 

Quick details about Dinos Downtown Wheaton

• When: Sept. 28-Oct. 8

• Where: Throughout downtown Wheaton

• Cost: Free
• Parking: Free parking is available in municipal lots, parking garages and on various streets throughout downtown. The City of Wheaton’s website has additional parking information.  

Other things to do with kids in Wheaton

• Venture outside of downtown and explore all that Wheaton has to offer families with our Family Neighborhood Guide to Wheaton. 
• Take a trip to the Cosley Zoo and learn about all the fascinating mammals, amphibians, birds and other species that are native to Illinois.
• Explore Cantigny Park, the historical estate of former Chicago Tribune publisher, Colonel Robert R. McCormick. The park offers gardens, golf, a museum, dining, field trips and more.

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