Dino-Mite Display To Greet Spring Break Travelers At The Indy Airport In Celebration Of The Children’S Museum’S 100Th Birthday

NEWS RELEASE FROM The Children’s Museum

Indianapolis, IN

March 12, 2025

In celebration of The Children’s Museum’s 100thbirthday—and just in time for spring break—Bucky the T. rex was unveiled on March 12 at the Indianapolis International Airport (IND). The massive 33-foot-long fossil will stand in Civic Plaza, the airport’s community gathering area, greeting travelers as they arrive in Indianapolis. The collaboration between The Children’s Museum and IND, two nationally recognized and award-winning institutions, shines a spotlight on 100 years of rich arts and culture in the city.

“We look forward to having Bucky help us welcome travelers to Central Indiana,” said Mario Rodriguez, IAA executive director. “Bucky will wow and intrigue visitors, educate them and provide a massive presence that speaks to the rich prominence of Indianapolis’ arts and culture opportunities.”

“Partnerships like this are vital in highlighting the unique offerings of our city and ensuring that travelers feel welcome when they arrive in Indianapolis,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “The City looks forward to the continued celebration of The Children’s Museum’s centennial year and how its mission helps empower children and their families to learn and grow.”

Visitors can see the real Bucky T. rexfossil on permanent display at The Children’s Museum. The museum continues to be a pioneer as one of the only children’s museums to actively dig for, prepare, and display unique and one-of-a-kind dinosaur fossils. In the past three years, the museum has uncovered more than 300 dinosaur fossils!

In addition to favorite exhibits like Dinosphere, The Children’s Museum has an exciting line-up of exhibits and events to celebrate its Centennial year, including the opening of the Centennial Ferris wheel on March 15. The 110-foot-tall Ferris wheel boasts incredible views of the museum campus, the downtown skyline, and surrounding areas. Museum admission or membership is required, plus an additional ticket purchase of $6/member or $8/non-member and Access Pass cardholder. The Ferris wheel is presented by Indiana Fever and Indiana Pacers.

“We can’t think of a better way to celebrate our 100th birthday than by having a presence at the Indy airport, where thousands of visitors pass through daily,” said Jennifer Pace Robinson, President and CEO of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. “We want to encourage families to visit The Children’s Museum to experience the magic and wonder of our Centennial year.”

The museum’s Centennial celebration is presented by Purdue University.

About The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The Children’s Museum ignites joy, wonder, and curiosity by creating powerful learning experiences for children and adults. For more information about The Children’s Museum, visit www.childrensmuseum.org and follow us on social media @childrensmuseum.