Dinosaurs roar into Moody Gardens

• By ROXANNE C. HARE
• Special sections editor
• Published: Apr 26, 2009

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This summer, Galveston’s Moody Gardens is not only looking forward to a new beginning after 2008’s Hurricane Ike, but it’s also looking back to a place where dinosaurs roared, stomped and flew about the earth.

The exhibit will feature “big things,” such as robotic dinosaurs, said Public Relations Coordinator Kuriko Hasegawa.

Another popular exhibit summer visitors are sure to enjoy is “Penguin Encounter,” which gives visitors close-up interaction with the aquarium’s penguins via a “VIP” or “backstage” pass.

“You actually sit down within the exhibit,” Hasegawa said. “The penguin performs. It’s very cute, very educational and interactive.”

Tickets are $30 per person, in addition to regular admission to the gardens.

There is also a more in-depth interactive penguin program that lasts for six hours. Tickets are $175 per person. Participants must be at least 16 years old.

Moody Gardens consists of three educational pyramids: a Rain Forest Pyramid, Aquarium Pyramid and Discovery Pyramid. Rain Forest contains live birds and animals and mimics their climate, Aquarium features creatures from different sea settings and Discovery has rotating educational exhibits.

There is also a state-of-the-art IMAX theater with a large selection of films, a Ridefilm theater that moves and bumps along with films and a 4D Special FX Theater that combines a 3D movie with surprises such as sprays of water and vibrating seats.

Although Hurricane Ike set things back a bit, Hasegawa said things are almost back to full force now and will be by this summer. Admission is $35.95 for a day pass and $40.95 for a two-day pass.

On the Net: http://www. moodygardens.com