Step into a world that predates humanity, when enormous beasts ruled the Earth, at “Journey into Earth’s Past” (“Utazás a Föld múltjába” in Hungarian). This thematic exhibition at DinoPark KÖKI in Budapest’s Kőbánya (Quarry) district offers kids and adults a truly immersive trip through deep time, combining science, fun, and dinosaurs on a rooftop space spanning nearly 3.7 acres.
Explore the Wonders of Prehistory
DinoPark KÖKI’s special pavilion sets the stage for a journey from the dawn of geological ages through to today. Gaze in awe at the fossilized wing impressions of ancient dragonflies, see the remains of prehistoric horsetails found in Hungary, and get up close with a replica of a Tertiary-era scorpion. One particularly captivating feature is the mock paleontological excavation, giving visitors a hands-on feel of what it’s like to uncover ancient remains.
Take an in-depth trip to the dinosaur era, learning about everything from their rise and reign in the Jurassic, to their final days during the Cretaceous and the theories behind their extinction after a meteorite impact. The exhibition, created with help from the West Bohemian Museum (Západočeské muzeum) in Plzeň and paleontology expert Dr. Josef Pšenička (RNDr. Josef Pšenička, PhD.), brings to life the planet’s untold history and the mysteries of creatures that vanished millions of years ago.
Dinos for the Instagram Generation
It’s not just old bones on display. The exhibit features casts of jaws, teeth, and eggs, along with clever models showing the intricate stages of dinosaur development inside the egg. Several picture-perfect photo stations invite families—especially the Instagram-savvy—to take selfies with life-sized dino models, including one playful setup letting you “peek out” from a dinosaur’s jaws.
The entire rooftop DinoPark isn’t limited to static displays: it’s a living playground. Children can experience the primeval world through the eyes of a newborn dinosaur chick or hunt for hidden “prehistoric” skeletons on a paleontology-themed playground. Climbing frames and swings keep energy levels high, while creative photo ops make for family portraits that will stand out from the rest. Young visitors will find even more delights, as the park is dedicated to sparking wonder and laughter at every turn.
All-in-One Pricing: No Surprise Fees
DinoPark is open on select dates from July through November 2025, right in Budapest. Tickets cover every attraction with no hidden costs—just show up and enjoy. Admission for adults is $13.80, while kids aged 3 to 15 pay $9.66. Entry is free for children under 3, so even your littlest explorers can join in. Family packages are available: two adults with two children cost $39.99, or $46.89 for families with three children. Reduced rates are available for visitors with disabilities ($6.90 for adults, $4.83 for kids), and credit card payment is accepted for convenience.
Where to Stay: Nearby Hotels
Turn your dino adventure into a weekend getaway with several nearby accommodations:
– Chesscom Hotel, a short walk from the Kőbánya-Kispest Metro terminus (KÖKI Terminal), offers 40 air-conditioned rooms with cable TV, telephone, free WiFi, fridge, and safe in every room.
– Hotel Sunshine focuses on green technology and comfort. Built as part of a green-energy project, it offers state-of-the-art geothermal heating and cooling for a pleasant stay year-round, wrapped in modern design and an inviting atmosphere.
– Hunyadi Pension (Hunyadi Panzió) provides a homely environment with family-friendly vibes, secure parking, and budget-friendly rates.
Food for Adventurers
Budapest’s 19th district isn’t just about dinosaurs and sightseeing—it also offers genuine Hungarian dining:
– Savor classic Hungarian cuisine in a cozy, family-run setting.
– Enjoy hearty Székely (Transylvanian) dishes, good beer, and relaxing music at the Outlaw Szekler Inn (Bújdosó Székely Vendéglő).
– Dine at the iconic Fisherman’s Inn (Halásztanya), built in 1938 by brewer Antal Dreher and designed by Károly Koós. The restaurant stands out with centuries-old Transylvanian red pine beams and a menu featuring boneless fish soups and a broad range of traditional Hungarian dishes. Its shaded garden, seating 100, is a favorite spot from spring to autumn.
– For home-style comfort food, one of Kispest’s top picks is worth the trip even from farther afield.
– Pizzoli Pizzeria (Pizzoli Pizzéria), located on Üllői Road (Üllői út), is famous for its Italian pizzas (with whole wheat options available), giant retro hamburgers, and a selection of soups, meat dishes, pastas, and desserts.
Mark Your Calendar
The dino adventure kicks off July 21 and runs on select dates through late November 2025 at DinoPark KÖKI, 75 Blind Bottyán Street (Vak Bottyán utca 75), Budapest 1191. Please be aware of possible schedule and program changes—the organizers reserve the right to modify dates or programs as needed.
Whether you’re a serious dino fan or just looking for a wildly different day out in Budapest, this exhibition promises fun, facts, and the ultimate prehistoric photo opportunities for the whole family.
