The site was discovered when a planned highway expansion uncovered fossilized remains, leading to the rerouting of the road.
It is the only known location in the world where a fossilized Alligator mississippiensis (American alligator) has been found alongside a rhinoceros.
The discovery of a prehistoric red panda at this site provided evidence that the species once inhabited North America.
The sediment at the site is highly unusual for the region, consisting of fine clays and silts that acted as a high-quality preservative.
Excavations have uncovered rare fossils of a giant ground sloth and an ancient tapir species.
The museum functions as a research laboratory where visitors can watch fossil preparation in real time.
The Gray Fossil Site is a Pliocene-era fossil deposit discovered in 2000 during a road construction project. It features an active paleontological dig site containing fossils dating back approximately 4.5 to 7 million years. The site is managed in partnership with East Tennessee State University and features a purpose-built museum. Notable specimens recovered from the site include the tapir, short-faced bear, red panda, and rhinoceros. The museum houses a laboratory where visitors can observe scientists cleaning and preparing fossils. Exhibits highlight the subtropical environment that once characterized this region of Tennessee. The facility serves as both an active research center and an educational public venue. Researchers continue to excavate the site to uncover new specimens from the clay-rich sediment.
The large panoramic window inside the museum offering a direct view down into the active dig pit.
Visit the viewing window in the museum to observe live fossil cleaning by laboratory staff.
Check the museum's calendar for scheduled guided tours of the active dig site.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes if you plan to explore the exterior pathways near the dig site.
Do not attempt to enter the fenced-off active dig area without an authorized guide.
Closed on Mondays and major holidays throughout the year.
Maintain a quiet volume near the research laboratory and do not touch displayed fossils.
