If you have dinosaur-mad kids and you’ve exhausted all the local options when you search ‘dinosaur attractions near me’, you may be wondering how to keep them entertained in ways that enable them to burn off some energy. We’re here with seven fun dinosaur themed game ideas that let your children explore, run around, and spend some time in nature.

Dinosaur treasure hunt

If your kids like exploring and problem solving, a dino treasure hunt is the perfect game. Hide some toy dinosaurs around the garden or another outdoor space, then write some clues for how to find each one. When all the dinos are found, reward the kids with a small prize or treat.

Fossil dig

Homes or play parks with a sand pit are ideal for a fossil dig. Make salt dough fossils and bury them in the sand. Then encourage the kids to dig carefully for them using small spades and paintbrushes.

Feed Mr T-Rex

This game combines crafting with outdoor fun. Use a shoe box to make a T-rex head with its jaws open. Then place the finished head on an outdoor table or other surface and get the kids to throw beanbags at it, trying to get them in Mr T-Rex’s mouth.

Triceratops hoopla

For this game, set up three cones in the configuration of Triceratops horns. Then get the kids to throw hoops or quoits and see if they can get them to land over the cones.

Floor is lava dino rescue

Add a prehistoric twist to the classic ‘floor is lava’ game with some dino damsels in distress. Set out objects in the garden that the kids must step on to avoid the ‘lava’ (the ground). Then dot dinosaurs around that the kids have to rescue - without treading in the lava. If you want to add another layer, see if they can rescue all the dinos in a set time.

Dino dinner

This game is a variation on red light/green light and works well if you have three or more children to occupy. One child is the dinosaur and stands with their back to the rest. The others creep forward until the dinosaur turns around, at which point they freeze. If the dinosaur catches anyone moving, they are the dino’s dinner and must go back to the start or sit out.

Dino races

Create a simple obstacle or race course with hoops, cones, chairs or anything else you have to hand. Then shout the name of a dinosaur and the kids have to complete the course in the way these dinosaurs moved. For example:

T-rex - on two legs, no arms allowed for help

Triceratops - crawling

Microraptor - hopping or jumping

Walk with dinosaurs live

If you like the idea of walking with dinosaurs live, don’t miss Dinosaur World Live. This walking with dinosaurs theatre show introduces children to some of the most fascinating prehistoric beasts, keeping them entertained with fun facts and stunning puppetry. Book your tickets today to join the adventure.