Ancient dinosaur fossil discovered beneath Denver's parking lot

In early January 2025, museum scientists from the Denver Museum of Nature & Science were engaged in drilling activities for a geothermal tap beneath the museum's parking lot. This endeavor provided an extraordinary opportunity for scientific exploration beneath the surface of the ground in City Park, Denver, Colorado. Unexpectedly, during this drilling, the team unearthed a dinosaur bone that had been laid underground for millions of years. The moment was described vividly by Patrick O'Connor, the director of Earth and space sciences at the museum, who reacted in surprise upon learning about the fossil discovery from his team members. The dinosaur bone marked a significant find as it is recognized as the oldest and deepest fossil ever identified in Denver. Research indicates that the bone likely dates back approximately 67 million years, a period when dinosaurs dominated the planet. As outlined by Bob Raynolds, an Earth Sciences Research Associate, this find is exceptionally remarkable and rare. In his extensive tenure of 35 years at the museum, Raynolds has not encountered an opportunity to study such deep geological layers with such precision. The discovery’s significance is compounded by its location beneath a busy urban area like City Park, underscoring the range of scientific wonders hiding beneath urban infrastructure. Following the discovery, scientist conversations have focused on further analysis of the bone's structure to determine its specific characteristics. Although the research team has not yet identified the exact species of dinosaur to which the bone belonged, they have been able to categorize it within a group of plant-eating dinosaurs based on its structural features. This classification was achieved by examining how the bones that comprise their backbone differ in composition from those of other dinosaur groups. Researchers expect that continued study of this find will yield valuable insights into the prehistoric life forms that once roamed the area now known as Denver. As the fossil is now on display in the museum's popular "Teen Rex" exhibit, it symbolizes the intersection of urban development, science, and the ancient histories buried beneath our feet. Patrick O'Connor highlighted the importance of inviting the public into scientific discovery, emphasizing that such findings offer opportunities for community engagement and learning. Enthusiastic responses from visitors and scholars alike reflect a growing interest in the behaviors and lifestyles of ancient species, as well as highlight an ongoing commitment to further scientific inquiry and education about Colorado's geological past.