east tennessee state university and general shale natural history museum

Tucked away in Gray, TN is a surprisingly sophisticated and advanced museum. Major exhibitions rotate, but the tour and excavation site are open. The red panda fossils are intriguing. Watch professors and students work in the paleo labs. Some times of the year, you can pay to participate in the digs!

This was a very pleasant surprise! The museum is filled with reconstructed dinosaurs (real) and many, many fossils which have been found in the area adjacent to the museum. Apparently, this site was a "gathering place" for dinosaurs who became trapped and are now being excavated. The dig is an active one, where visitors can - on certain occasions - participate in the dig. Very informative guides and exhibits, as well as some "hands on" items for the children. Admission price is minimal, with discounts for seniors and veterans. Fascinating place!