Our family recently visited the Dino Safari Adventure by Luminocity, an outdoor experience at the Walt Whitman Shops in Huntington, NY, and it was an unforgettable journey through the prehistoric world. Running until September 22, 2024, this event offers an exciting blend of education, interactive zones, and larger-than-life dinosaurs, all under the open sky. I have also included a discount code just for you at the end of this blog post!
First Impressions: From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by the impressive outdoor setup. The event is sectioned into different zones, and the sprawling area allowed for a great flow of foot traffic, even on busier weekend evenings. The fact that the experience is outdoors added to the immersive nature, making it feel more like an adventure than a simple exhibit. We opted for the night session, which turned out to be the best choice for the spectacular light displays.
Ticket Information & Hours: Dino Safari runs two sessions: the Day Session (5:00 pm – 7:00 pm) and the Night Session (7:00 pm – 9:30 pm on weekdays, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm on weekends). Prices increase for the night session due to the enhanced visual experience with dynamic light effects, which truly added another layer of magic, especially for the kids.
Dino Zones and Educational Experience: The heart of Dino Safari is its animatronic dinosaurs, which are impressively detailed and accompanied by well-placed educational boards. From the towering T-Rex to the long-necked Apatosaurus, these dinosaurs were not just static displays—they moved and roared, adding a sense of realism to the experience. Our family, particularly the kids, was fascinated by the educational components that explained the age, habitat, and habits of each dinosaur. It’s the kind of learning that feels more like fun.
Paid Interactive Zones: While general admission gave us access to the dinosaurs and the core experience, several paid interactive activities enhanced the fun. Here’s a breakdown:
- Dinosaur Paradise Bounces ($15/person): A favorite with the kids, these bounce houses were large, colorful, and dinosaur-themed, giving the children a chance to burn off energy while having fun.
- Dino Speedway Ride ($5/person): For those looking for a quick thrill, this mini go-kart ride was a big hit. It’s designed for kids but enjoyable for adults too, and the race track made for a fun family competition.
- Safari Dig (Dirtbag Sold at Ticket Booth): Here, kids could dig for fossils and other hidden treasures. We bought the PayDirt ($15/bag) for our little ones and watched them enthusiastically sift through their bags, hoping to uncover a prize. Other options like the Prospector ($20/bag) and Lumi ($25/bag) offered more premium digging experiences with chances for better finds. We tried them all and LOVED THEM!
Free Activities: One of the best parts of Dino Safari was the variety of free activities included with admission:
- Dino Fossils Hunt: Our children loved searching for hidden dino bones. It was educational and engaging, allowing them to learn while playing.
- T-Rex Thrill Chair: This was a big hit with my thrill-seeking child. It offered a mini adventure as they swung in a dino-themed chair.
- Jungle Explorer Playground: A great area for younger kids to run around and explore safely. It offered plenty of space to play while still keeping them engaged with the dinosaur theme.
- Dino Carousel: Our visit wouldn’t have been complete without a ride on the Dino Carousel. It’s a simple yet charming addition, offering younger children a break from the more active zones.
Nighttime Magic: While the day session offers a bright, detailed view of the dinosaurs and attractions, the night session really shines—quite literally. The light displays brought the dinosaurs to life in a way that was both magical and slightly surreal. The lighting transformed the whole experience, and it felt like walking through a prehistoric fantasy world. If you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend opting for the night session for the full immersive effect, though keep in mind that prices are slightly higher.
Final Thoughts: The Dino Safari Adventure is a fantastic option for families looking for something both entertaining and educational. While some of the paid activities can add up, there are plenty of free zones to balance the cost, and the sheer scale and quality of the exhibit make it worth every penny. For those on Long Island or in nearby areas, the outdoor setting adds a special touch, making it feel like more than just an ordinary trip to the mall.
With sessions running through September 22, 2024, we highly recommend a visit before it closes, especially during the evening for the best light visual experience. Whether you’re a dinosaur enthusiast or just looking for a fun family outing, Dino Safari Adventure delivers a prehistoric experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
DISCOUNT CODE: MOMMYSPICE10
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Would you like to add any specific family experiences or thoughts to the review? Let me know below!