DRUMHELLER, AB – March 20, 2026

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The Drumheller and District Chamber of Commerce (DDCC), in collaboration with the Town of Drumheller and Travel Drumheller, is pleased to share an update on the World’s Largest Dinosaur, Tyra. Since opening in 2000,the World’s Largest Dinosaur has welcomed millions of visitors from around the world and remains a recognizable Canadian roadside attraction and a cornerstone of the Drumheller Valley experience.

The results from her structural assessment completed in September 2025 confirms the dinosaur remains safe, stable, and ready to welcome visitors. The assessment report outlines proactive maintenance required to protect and preserve the fibre glass and steel structure in the years ahead. This work is consistent with the regular upkeep the attraction has received for more than 20 years. The assessment was undertaken as part of a collaborative process between the DDCC, the Town of Drumheller, and Travel Drumheller regarding the attraction’s future.

In March 2025, the DDCC announced it would refocus on it score mission of business advocacy and economic development and that operations of the Visitor Information Centre and dinosaur attraction would conclude when its current lease agreement with the Town of Drumheller expires in December2029. Completing a structural assessment was identified as the first step to better understand the attraction’s condition and expected longevity, so partners could begin to explore long-term options for the dinosaur.

In 2025, the DDCC invested $310,000 in exterior restoration and painting to enhance durability and protect the structure, reinforcing its commitment to responsible stewardship and a high-quality visitor experience. Investments of this scale are typically required every five to eight years to maintain the exterior. The assessment will help guide continued maintenance through the DDCC’s current lease.

“The dinosaur is safe, and we have a clear maintenance roadmap through 2029,” said Heather Bitz, Executive Director of the DDCC. “At the same time, we welcome thoughtful, well-developed, funded proposals from those interested in helping shape what comes next when our lease concludes.”

“We are very pleased the assessment confirmed that Tyra is a healthy 25-year-old Tyrannosaurus-Rex,” said Mayor Tony Miglecz of the Town of Drumheller. “And that the community cancontinue to enjoy her while a clear path forward can be established. Council will review the data and consider Tyra’s future and the role the Town can play in it, while continuing to support the Chamber, where reasonable.”

The World’s Largest Dinosaur remains open and welcomes visitors to climb to the top to enjoy one of the Drumheller Valley’s most recognizable landmarks.

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Click to view WLD Structural Assessment Report

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