In a significant development for paleontology enthusiasts and science education, the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University (EFM) is scheduled to open its doors in March 2025. Located at 66 Million Mosasaur Way, just minutes from Philadelphia, this state-of-the-art facility promises to offer visitors an unparalleled journey through Earth’s prehistoric past.
The museum’s primary focus is on the age of dinosaurs, particularly the period surrounding the asteroid impact that led to their extinction 66 million years ago. What sets EFM apart is its unique feature – the only known preserved fossil ecosystem from the exact moment of this cataclysmic event. This remarkable preservation offers scientists and visitors alike a snapshot of life at one of the most pivotal moments in Earth’s history.
Dr. Kenneth Lacovara, founding executive director of the Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, emphasizes the significance of the site: ‘This is not just a museum—it’s a gateway to a breathtaking chapter of Earth’s history. Here, we open a window onto the profound and pivotal events of the fifth mass extinction, during which the dinosaurs and 75% of species perished, shaping the modern world as we know it.’
The museum boasts an impressive array of features designed to engage visitors of all ages. Immersive galleries showcase stunning reconstructions of giant prehistoric species and their environments. The hands-on Discovery Forest and Critter Cove with live animal encounters provide interactive learning experiences. Perhaps most exciting is the opportunity for visitors to participate in real fossil digs, both in the museum’s indoor fossil hunt powered by RFID technology and in the active research quarry on-site.
Additional attractions include a free-roaming virtual reality experience, a museum store, café, theater, scenic nature trails, and a paleontology-themed playground. These diverse offerings ensure that EFM will cater to a wide range of interests and learning styles.
The museum’s location in southern New Jersey is particularly significant due to the region’s rich paleontological history. Over 100,000 fossils from more than 100 species have been unearthed at the site, including remains of mosasaurs, marine crocodiles, sea turtles, and sharks. This wealth of prehistoric material underscores the area’s importance in understanding Earth’s past.
Beyond its role as an educational institution, EFM is committed to promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness. The facility is designed with eco-friendly features, including geothermal and electric systems that significantly reduce its carbon footprint. This focus on sustainability extends to the museum’s mission, which aims to inspire visitors to take action towards creating a greener future for our planet.
The creation of EFM was made possible through a generous donation from Rowan University alumni Jean & Ric Edelman. The design team for the museum includes Ennead Architects, KSS Architects, and G&A, with landscape design by SEED Design/Yaki Miodovnik.
As the opening date approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a world-class destination for scientific discovery and interactive learning. The Edelman Fossil Park & Museum is poised to become a significant contributor to paleontological research and public science education, offering visitors a chance to explore the mysteries of Earth’s past while contemplating the challenges of its future.
For more information about the museum and upcoming ticket sales, interested parties can visit efm.org.
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