Got a kid who’s obsessed with rocks? How about dinosaurs? Mummies, anyone? The Rutgers Geology Museum caters to all three interests, and it’s full of gems—literally and figuratively!
Concentrate on the Garden State
The museum’s collections include minerals, fossils, and other natural specimens found in the ground here and emphasize the geology of New Jersey.
Walk in and be greeted by a realistic-looking model of the small carnivorous dinosaur Grallator, then examine the trackway, found in Towaco, that scientists believe this theropod made.
Move on and come face-to-face with a real mastodon skeleton that was discovered in Salem County. And find cases full of the most beautiful minerals you and your kids have ever seen, including some that are fluorescent and most of which were found in the Garden State.
While the museum focuses on specimens found within our state borders, some come from as far away as Egypt, including a 2,500-year-old mummy and her (yes, they know it’s female!) sarcophagus.
Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the gift shop. If you’re thinking you’d like nothing more than to do just that, have no fear: This museum’s store offers delightfully inexpensive and interesting items. My daughter got a beautiful amethyst for three bucks, and my son is enamored of his five-dollar shark tooth necklace.
Late Nights at the Museum
From 4–8 pm on the first Wednesday of certain months, families can come to the museum to explore activity stations on special themes.
This month’s “Late Night,” scheduled for November 6, will focus on anthropology and how researchers make discoveries about our ancient ancestors; next month’s event will be on December 4 and will focus on geologic time, giving little scientists a chance to learn about all the major eras of the past.
Bonus Tips
• Ask for a scavenger hunt sheet when you arrive. There are three age-based versions, including one for those who can’t read yet. Kids get a small prize at the end for completing it.
• The museum is small in size, so it’s not overwhelming for little kids (and little legs!). Children of all ages will be able to explore everything the museum has to offer in one memorable trip.
• Private tours are available for groups of 10+ (get together with other families!). Call for details and to reserve a date. f
The Deets
Rutgers Geology Museum
85 Somerset St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 932-7243
Renée Sagiv Riebling is always on the lookout for familiy adventures.
