Visit the Museum of Geology

Step Back in Time, 500 Million Years!

What is Geology?

Geology is a fascinating science that studies the Earth and its processes, including tectonic plates, rocks, minerals, and fossils. At the Museum of Geology, you'll find many compelling exhibits focusing on:

• PALEONTOLOGY - the study of ancient life
• MINERALOGY - the study of minerals, including gems, crystals, and the rocks they form

Museum of Geology Mission

The mission of the Museum of Geology is to collect, conserve, curate, interpret, exhibit, and disseminate knowledge of paleontologically and geologically significant objects and serve as the repository for such objects from South Dakota and the Northern Great Plains, as well as from other areas that enhance our understanding of South Dakota paleontology and geology.

Come and See

• Fascinating mounted skeletons of dinosaurs, mammals, marine reptiles, and fish
• Rare fossils from the White River Badlands, arranged in time-specific dioramas
• Mineral displays including the Hall of South Dakota Minerals, meteorites, and a fluorescent mineral room that's sure to captivate
• The Discovery Zone offers hands on experiences for our visitors
• Museum gift shop with toys, books, models, rocks, posters, and more! 

Learn More About Us

Donate

Exhibits

Paleontology Research Lab Paleontology Research Laboratory

Tours and Events

• Guided tours are available for groups.  Please call ahead to schedule at (605) 394-2467
• Popular events for children include the annual "Night At The Museum" (Fall) and "Dinosaur Eggstravaganza" (Spring)
• Paleontology & Geology field camps are available in the summer for high school students 

2025 Events

• Spring Rock and Fossil ID Day – Saturday, February 15 – 12:30-4:00

• Dinosaur Egg-straveganza – Saturday, April 12 – 12:00-4:30

• Fall Rock and Fossil ID Day – Saturday, September 13 – 12:30 – 4:00

• Night at the Museum – Saturday, October 18 – 12:00-4:30

Admission

• Adults (16+) $10.00
• Children (6-15) $5.00
• Seniors (60+) $8.00
• Military (with ID) $8.00

• Keep your receipt or take a selfie at our station to have your admission count for the whole year!

• Tours*
  • School Tours: $3.00 per student, teachers and chaperones are free
  • Private Tours: $6 per person

*Tours must be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. Tours larger than 25 people must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. 

Virtual Visits

If you're visiting us online, we'd like to introduce you to our online resources:

• Online Exhibits  - These dynamic visual presentations showcase research by South Dakota Mines faculty and students.  Learn more about research and exploration here in the Black Hills and across the globe.
• Virtual Tour  - The South Dakota Mines virtual tour captures our unique campus using vibrant imagery, VR360 tours, and video and allows you to enjoy 360° panoramic views of our beautiful campus.
• View us on YouTube    Instagram   Facebook
  
  

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