This release was issued under a previous government.

Black Beauty

Black Beauty

The new exhibit, Foundations, offers visitors of all ages a dynamic, interactive experience that explores the science of palaeontology and Alberta’s leadership role in the study and preservation of some of the world’s oldest fossils. 

The Government of Alberta is making a major $9.3-million investment to expand the Royal Tyrrell Museum facilities, including additional hands-on learning area, classrooms and a distance-learning space. The museum is a key heritage tourism attraction for the province and a significant economic driver for southern Alberta. The expansion will create short- and long-term employment and diversify our economy.

“Albertans love the Tyrrell Museum and this new exhibit and expansion are sure to be dino-mite! It is truly a provincial jewel, inspiring young minds and attracting scientists and visitors from all over the world. By making the museum experience even better, the expansion money our government is announcing today will increase visitors, create jobs and leave a legacy for future generations.”

Ricardo Miranda, Minister of Culture and Tourism

Foundations will encourage visitors to learn about the basics of palaeontology, geology, evolution, fossilization and the history of life on Earth. They will witness the breadth and wonder of the museum’s collection and come to understand Alberta’s critical role in the preservation and scientific study of fossils globally.

Multimillion-dollar expansion plans underway

Through Capital Plan 2016, the Government of Alberta is investing $9.3 million for the expansion of facilities at the museum.

"Our government is proud to invest in this world-renowned museum. When we build, renew and maintain infrastructure such as the Royal Tyrrell, our economy gets a needed boost. Investing in infrastructure also supports jobs and strengthens Alberta's communities."

Brian Mason, Minister of Infrastructure

Funding will go towards:

  • expanding facilities, including the distance learning studios
  • additional classroom and learning space
  • expanding accessible public washroom facilities
  • developing a hands-on discovery room
  • a rest area for the entire family

Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2017 and be completed in the spring of 2019. The museum will remain open to the public throughout the construction period.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is recognized globally as a premier research and education centre. It houses one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs and is Canada’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the science of palaeontology. Since opening its doors in 1985, the museum has attracted more than 12 million visitors from around the world.

In 2013, tourism in Alberta generated $8 billion in visitor spending and more than 127,000 jobs.