FLORISSANT, CO -- Shortly after Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument was established 44
years ago, plans were made to build a visitor center. Four decades later, those plans finally have been
fulfilled with the recent completion of a new visitor center and research facility complete with new,
interactive exhibits and an updated theater. The park plans to celebrate with a fee free, grand
opening weekend Saturday, June 15 and Sunday June 16.
On Saturday, June 15th, activities will take place between 10:00-3:00 and all begin at the visitor center.
Visitors will have an opportunity to get a behind the scenes look at the paleontology lab and
collections area. Tours of the building’s sustainable energy technology will be offered. There will be
an opportunity to meet many of the scientists who have studied Florissant’s fossils. Dr. Estella
Leopold, one of the scientists and recent winner of the Paleontological Society Medal, will be
available to sign the recent book which she co-authored, “Saved In Time: The Fight to Establish
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Colorado." The Friends of the Florissant Fossil Beds National
Monument will be providing light refreshments. Park Rangers will be leading walking tours, science
demonstrations, and ranger talks throughout the day. Award-winning musician and Park Ranger Jeff
Wolin will be performing a children’s concert at 12 noon.
Sunday, June 16th, the celebration will continue with light refreshments being served from 10 - 3,
tours of the paleontology lab and collections area from 11 - 1, building technology tours from 10 - 2,
and a full day of ranger guided walks, talks, and demonstrations.
For those interested, a small ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Friday morning at 10:00.
For more information please contact the park at (719) 748 - 3253
The Monument is now open 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily through Labor Day.
To learn more about the new visitor center, and a complete schedule of the opening visit Florissant
Fossil Beds National Monument’s website at www.nps.gov/flfo and click the link for “Visitor Center
2013" More details also are available from the monument at (719) 748-3253.
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument P.O. Box 185, Florissant, CO 80816 Phone: (719) 748-3253, www.nps.gov/flfo
EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA
The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
