Dynamic Earth is a massive interactive visitor attraction that guides visitors on a historic journey through the universe, from the Big Bang through today. The nonprofit attraction has a mission to educate while being one of the most fun experiences in the UK for visitors and staff alike. Tickets are affordable and make for an exciting and educational outing.
The facility is family friendly, and its high level of interactivity makes it a popular destination for kids. Adults will appreciate the sheer production value and the way each experience has something for all ages. With a virtual journey from the depths of the oceans to the far reaches of outer space, it’s impossible not to be entertained. Dynamic Earth has been rated as a 5-star, world-class attraction by Visit Scotland and has won a RIBA Regional Award and a Civic Trust Award for its architecture and attractions.
Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh - one of the highlights of 11 Best Family Things to Do in Edinburgh (Read all about Edinburgh here)
photo by This is Edinburgh (Dynamic Earth) (CC BY 2.0) modified
Highlights of the Dynamic Earth
The most popular exhibit is the permanent exhibition discussing the story of Earth, how it came into existence, how it’s evolved over each epoch and the dangers and challenges the world faces from humankind and external forces. Other permanent features include an actual iceberg, 4D experiences and an earthquake experience.
Attractions like these abound. A virtual rocket ride takes you through outer space to see stars explode. You can stand under the Aurora Borealis and watch glaciers carve out continents from high above, or you can travel the darkest depths of the ocean in a virtual submarine ride to witness sea creatures. Of course, you can also shop for a perfect souvenir in the gift shop or grab lunch at the onsite cafe, which allows views of Arthur's Seat, the Scottish Parliament and the Salisbury Crags.
Learning and events
In addition to the highlight attractions, Dynamic Earth offers a wide variety of events, workshops and learning experiences in support of the sciences. The venue hosts gala dinners and receptions, conferences and meetings and weddings and proms. Regular guest speakers with unique insights into current global and environmental issues visit as well. These events are changing all the time.
Learning experiences for kids and adults are another important part of Dynamic Earth's mission. The venue hosts regular workshops, outdoor learning experiences, professional development in environmental sciences and the Dino's Dynamos Kid's Club, which looks at the science of paleontology. Additionally, the facility organizes field trips and holds family learning programs, like Destination Space, which explores the role the UK has played in global space science and exploration through the ages.
Good to know about Dynamic Earth
Parking is available under the building in a carpark that’s open 24 hours. The carpark is a pay lot and has a maximum entry height of 2.3 meters. Edinburgh tour buses stop at Dynamic Earth, as do local public transportation options. Dynamic Earth is also fully accessible for disabled people and is in full compliance with all government accessibility and safety guidelines and requirements.
Group rates are available for groups of 12 or more visiting the facility. You can purchase an Annual Explorer Pass for less than the cost of 2 regular visits, which is a good value if you intend to make multiple trips. Corporate membership tickets are available, as are Community Discovery Passes. Tickets can be purchased online through the website.
Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh
Location: Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8AS, UK
Phone: +1 (0)1355 07800
Start planning your trip
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Holiday Inn Edinburgh, an IHG Hotel
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Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Village Hotel Edinburgh
YOTEL Edinburgh
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Britannia Hotel Edinburgh
Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
