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Amusement parks

Lourinhã Dino Park

4.5 · 18,355 reviews
Educational, spacious, and family-oriented.
Lourinhã Dino Park, R. Vale dos Dinossauros 25, Abelheira, 2530-059 Lourinhã, Portugal
Interesting facts
1

The park features a reconstruction of the Lourinhanosaurus antunesi, a theropod dinosaur species first discovered in the local region.

2

Lourinhã is one of the most important areas in Europe for Jurassic-period paleontological research.

3

The models are created in partnership with international paleontologists to ensure anatomical accuracy regarding skin texture and posture.

4

The site includes a 'Monster of the Seas' pavilion specifically dedicated to marine reptiles that inhabited the oceans millions of years ago.

5

The park's fossil lab allows visitors to observe paleontologists working on the preparation of real, recently unearthed specimens.

6

Some of the displayed dinosaur models are based on actual trackways found in the nearby cliffside geological formations.

7

The park provides a visual representation of how the continents drifted over the geological time scales featured in the trails.

Overview

Lourinhã Dino Park is the largest outdoor dinosaur theme park in Portugal, featuring over 200 life-sized models across four distinct trails. The park focuses on the natural history of the Lourinhã region, which is internationally recognized for its significant Late Jurassic fossil discoveries. Visitors walk through reconstructed prehistoric habitats representing the Paleozoic, Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods. The onsite museum displays genuine fossils, including eggs and embryonic remains unearthed in local sedimentary rocks. Scientific accuracy is maintained through collaborations with the Lourinhã Museum and various paleontological research institutions. The park integrates interactive educational activities and excavation zones designed for younger visitors. It spans approximately 10 hectares of forested terrain. The paths are designed to mimic a journey through geological time.

Photo spot

The large Diplodocus model, which serves as a central park landmark and provides a clear perspective of the scale of these creatures.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the trails cover uneven, unpaved terrain.

Carry a hat and sunscreen, as significant portions of the outdoor trails are exposed to direct sunlight.

Download the park's interactive map or app before arrival to facilitate self-guided navigation through the various prehistoric eras.

What to avoid

Attempting to visit the entire park in under two hours, which prevents meaningful engagement with the museum exhibits and excavation stations.

Good to know

Open daily year-round, except for December 25th.

Etiquette

Do not climb on the dinosaur models; stick to designated walking paths to protect local flora and fossil-bearing ground.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings in the shoulder season (spring or autumn) to avoid peak heat and school group crowds.
Address
Lourinhã Dino Park, R. Vale dos Dinossauros 25, Abelheira, 2530-059 Lourinhã, Portugal
39.278, -9.293
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsLourinhanosaurus antunesi and Jurassic marine reptile fossils
Park featuresFour themed geological trails and an active fossil laboratory

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings in the shoulder season (spring or autumn) to avoid peak heat and school group crowds..

The large Diplodocus model, which serves as a central park landmark and provides a clear perspective of the scale of these creatures.

Close by you'll find Rotunda Dino Parque, Lourinhã Museum, Praia do Areal Sul.