MANTEO – The dinosaurs roaming the nature trail the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island are getting an extended stay, remaining open until September 16. Originally slated to go extinct on September 4, the dinos’ departure has been postponed so more visitors can enjoy these prehistoric giants face-to-face.

Last month saw the highest-attended July since 2001, and the dinosaurs have been a huge hit. Guests can stand alongside life-size animated Triceratops and Stegosaurus and get face to face with Parasaurolophus and Ankylosaurus, then witness the power of the infamous Tyrannosaurus Rex! Extra activities include a dinosaur digging site and a chance to leave dino footprints while walking in the steps of the giants.

Don’t miss this chance to live large with these legendary lizards.  Dinosaurs! is included with regular aquarium admission.

The N.C. Aquarium on Roanoke Island is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is dedicated to the mission of “Inspiring appreciation and conservation of North Carolina’s aquatic environments.” The aquarium is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Info at ncaquariums.com/roanoke-island.