Dinosaurs may have disappeared millions of years ago, but you can still spend a day following in their giant footsteps right here in Greeley. From meeting a massive Triceratops to cooling off at a family-friendly waterpark, here's how to celebrate National Dinosaur Day with a full day of prehistoric fun.
Stop 1: Meet Pops the Triceratops 
Start your adventure at the Weld County Administration Building, home to one of Greeley's most recognizable prehistoric residents: Pops the Triceratops.
Pops is a life-sized replica of a Triceratops skeleton and serves as a tribute to one of Weld County's most significant paleontological discoveries. In 1987, a Triceratops fossil was unearthed in northern Weld County. The discovery helped connect our region to the age of dinosaurs and remains one of the county's most fascinating pieces of natural history.
Today, visitors can stand beneath the towering skeleton, snap photos and imagine what life was like when giant dinosaurs roamed what is now northeastern Colorado. It's a perfect first stop for dinosaur lovers of all ages.
Location: 1150 O Street
Hours: Monday – Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Stop 2: Make a Splash at Discovery Bay Waterpark
After your encounter with a prehistoric giant, it's time to cool down at Discovery Bay Waterpark.
This family-favorite features water slides, a lazy river, splash zones and plenty of space to relax in the Colorado sunshine. It's the perfect place for kids to burn off energy while parents enjoy an affordable day of family fun.
One of the best parts? Admission is budget-friendly, making Discovery Bay an easy addition to a summer day in Greeley without breaking the bank.
Location: 715 E. 24th Street
Hours: Open Daily 12 - 5 p.m.
Stop 3: Eat Like a Herbivore at Aunt Helen's 
Even dinosaurs need lunch.
For a fresh and healthy meal, head to Aunt Helen's Coffee Shop & Cafe. Their made-from-scratch salads are packed with fresh ingredients and make a delicious stop between adventures.
Aunt Helen's Location: 800 8th Avenue, Suite 101
Stop 4: Roam the Earth at Houston Gardens
Wrap up your National Dinosaur Day adventure with a peaceful stroll through Houston Gardens.
This hidden gem features beautiful flowers, mature trees, winding pathways and plenty of spots to slow down and enjoy nature. While you probably won't spot any dinosaurs, it's easy to imagine a prehistoric landscape while wandering among the greenery.
Bring your camera, enjoy the seasonal blooms and take a moment to appreciate how much the world has changed since the days of Triceratops.
Location: 515 23rd Avenue
Hours: Monday – Wednesday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thursday – Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Bonus Adventure!
Set the scene for the day with sometime in the field first. Plan an early morning trip to Pawnee National Grasslands, about 30 miles from Greeley. Walking along eroded gullies you’ll see exposures of the White River Formation, Pierre Shale and Fox Hills Sandstone, rich in common invertebrate fossils like crinoid stems (~70 million years old).
Plan Your Prehistoric Day
National Dinosaur Day is the perfect excuse to explore a different side of Greeley. Whether you're fascinated by fossils, looking for family-friendly activities or simply searching for a unique summer outing, this one-day itinerary delivers a little bit of everything.
From meeting Pops the Triceratops to splashing at Discovery Bay Waterpark and enjoying fresh local food, you'll discover that Greeley is full of larger-than-life adventures.