The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University (the Academy) will be celebrating the dino days of summer with expanded hours and special programming. Dino-Mite Summer runs through July and August and includes exciting events like Dinosaur Days and Bug Fest.

Starting with Thursday, July 2, the Academy will be open for an additional weekday for $10 Thursdays. Other discounted days to visit the Academy include free admission June 26 as part of Wawa Welcome America’s Free Museum Days and pay-what-you-wish admission on Aug. 1 to celebrate the Academy’s distinction as the country’s first scientific society of natural history as part of Philadelphia Historic District’s 52 Weeks of Firsts.

“The Academy really comes alive in the summer, with extra activities for kids who are out of school and special events for all ages of dinosaur lovers, bug enthusiasts and anyone else with a passion for science and nature,” said Mariah Romaninsky, Executive Director of Engagement and Visitor Experience at the Academy.

The Academy will also be hosting special Dino Days on the weekends of July 25-26 and Aug. 22-23, when visitors can enjoy a fun- and fossil-filled visit to explore hands-on paleontology activities and hear from scientists about the surprising scandals of the paleo research world. Guests can explore real specimens, watch fossil prep demonstrations, make a dinosaur craft and even help dust the Academy’s dinosaur mounts and casts.

Summer at the Academy also means the return of the ever-popular Bug Fest. This year, Bug Fest will take place Aug. 8-9 with a chance to get up close and personal with the Academy’s live insects and entomology collection. More details about Bug Fest will be announced in July.

Beyond its special events, the Academy is offering special programming throughout the museum this summer, including special live shows, story times and tours throughout the museum all summer long. The most cost-effective way to see all of these programs is the Academy’s Summer Membership. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Summer Membership includes unlimited free museum admission for 2 adults and up to five children for $99, as well as unlocking other membership benefits such as discounted parking and gift shop purchases.