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We’ve moved!

Please visit our NEW permanent website for information about HandsOn! Discovery Center.

Ticket Information

Admission to the Gray Fossil Site is now included with admission to Hands On! Discovery Center.  Click here for ticket prices.

Plan Your Trip

Museum Hours

We are now OPEN.  Please click here to get your tickets and more information about your visit**

Gray Fossil Site exhibits are available during Hands On! Discovery Center hours:

Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm and Mondays 10am-5pm in March, June, and July

Hands On! Discovery Center closed the following holidays:
New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Other Closings:
Please check our Facebook and Twitter pages for snow schedule closings

Membership Information

One-year memberships are available.

Click HERE to for more information or to purchase on-line (add-ons may be added at the front desk on your next visit)



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Group Visits

If you are coming with a group of 10 or more paying guests, you may qualify for a group discount. For more information please visit our Group Visits page.

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tapirskeleton


Dwarf Tapir, Tapirus polkensis
One of many species of tapir found at the Gray Fossil Site


What is the Gray Fossil Site?

The Gray Fossil Site is a place where visitors can view and learn about an active Pliocene-era fossil dig site. Scientists believe the site was formed by an underground limestone cave that collapsed and created a sinkhole. This left a vast fossil deposit that dates back approximately 5 million years ago. Animals that have been unearthed so far include: saber tooth cat, alligator, tapir, rhinoceros, short-faced bear, and a mastodon as well as hundreds of plants and other animals.

Come by to learn more about this incredible discovery!

For More Info, visit the ETSU Center for Excellence in Paleontology.

12. volunteer crew in rhino pit


A volunteer crew excavating the Rhino Pit at the Gray Fossil Site Museum and Visitor Center

PartyTapir

Party Tapir, Tapirus celebratius
A special species of tapir only found at the Gray Fossil Site

Birthday Parties

Looking for a truly unique and memorable venue? We are now offering Paleo-themed Birthday Parties!  Visit our Birthday Party page to learn more

Donate

Your donations will support STEM education. Donate today!

Outreach

Let us come to you! If you’d like to have us give a presentation for your school, local civic club, church, or organization!

Rentals

We offer the perfect venue for your unique corporate, community, or private event!