Inside view of the Museum Demonstration Lab where scientists work on projects from Petrified Forest National Park's museum collection, such as fossils and artifacts.
NPS Photo / Diana Boudreau
The Museum Demonstration Lab at the Painted Desert Visitor Center is where you can see one-of-a-kind fossils from Petrified Forest National Park being prepared by trained paleontologists! Peek through the window to see fossils from the museum collection. Watch a live microscope feed on the TV as paleontologists remove rock from fossil bone. Chat with scientists via a two-way, hands-free speaker.
Starting March 6, 2023 construction projects will be occuring around the Painted Desert Community Complex. These projects may impact Demo Lab operations, so please check our website prior to your visit!
Demo Lab will be closed the following days:
Friday May 26 Construction Closure
Saturday May 27 Construction Closure
Sunday May 28 Construction Closure
Friday November 10, 2023 Veterans Day
Thursday November 23, 2023 Thanksgiving Day
Paleontologists at Petrified Forest actively work with outside researchers to reconstruct a detailed history of life during the Late Triassic, and exciting new research has resulted in multiple published research articles in just the last few years. The Museum Demonstration Lab has been THE primary place for park staff to share these scientific discoveries with visitors, often showcasing the fossils themselves before they go on exhibit or into collections. The diversity and exceptionality of fossils in the Museum Demonstration Lab and direct interaction with paleontologists is what makes it a must see for visitors coming to Petrified Forest.
Become a Junior Paleontologist!
Discover, learn about, and protect park fossils by completing the activity booklet and earn your Junior Paleontologist badge.
