Yes, there are giant dinosaurs just off Interstate 10 on the way to Palm Springs. And no, you’re not imagining it.

The Cabazon Dinosaurs are one of Southern California’s most recognizable roadside attractions, looming over the desert and stopping traffic long before you actually pull off the freeway. For decades, these massive prehistoric figures have drawn road-trippers, families, film fans, and curious travelers who can’t quite believe what they’re seeing.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Cabazon Dinosaurs before you stop, explore, and take far too many photos.

What Are the Cabazon Dinosaurs?

The Cabazon Dinosaurs are two enormous steel-and-concrete sculptures located in the small desert community of Cabazon, California. The most famous figures are Dinny the Dinosaur, a 150-foot-long Apatosaurus (often still called a Brontosaurus), and Mr. Rex, a 65-foot-tall Tyrannosaurus Rex.

The dinosaurs were created by sculptor Claude K. Bell, who previously worked at Knott’s Berry Farm. Bell began construction in 1964 as a way to attract customers to his nearby restaurant, the Wheel Inn. Over time, the dinosaurs became far more famous than the restaurant itself.

According to historical accounts summarized on Wikipedia, Dinny took more than a decade to complete and cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Mr. Rex wasn’t finished until the mid-1980s and even featured a slide down his tail for a short period before safety concerns put an end to that particular thrill.

A Brief History of a Desert Landmark

Claude Bell’s vision for the Cabazon Dinosaurs was ambitious, unusual, and extremely personal. Bell reportedly purchased the land in the 1940s and spent decades slowly bringing the project to life, often funding construction himself.

While the Wheel Inn restaurant eventually closed in 2013 and was demolished in 2016, the dinosaurs survived. Ownership of the property changed hands after Bell’s death, but Dinny and Mr. Rex remained, cementing their status as one of California’s most enduring examples of roadside Americana.

Over the years, the site has evolved, at times housing exhibits and themed displays inside the dinosaurs themselves. While not everyone agrees on every chapter of the attraction’s history, the dinosaurs’ longevity is part of what makes them fascinating.

Where Are the Cabazon Dinosaurs?

The Cabazon Dinosaurs are located at 50800 Seminole Drive, Cabazon, California, just off Interstate 10 between Los Angeles and Palm Springs. If you’re driving east toward the Coachella Valley, you’ll see them on the left side of the freeway well before the exit.

They’re easy to reach, with ample on-site parking. Even if you’re just looking for a quick break from the drive, the stop takes only a few minutes and offers a memorable visual contrast to the surrounding desert.

The attraction is also featured by California tourism outlets such as Visit California, which highlights it as a classic roadside stop.

Do You Have to Pay to See the Cabazon Dinosaurs?

Yes and no. You can freely pull into the parking lot, walk around the grounds, and take photos of the dinosaurs without paying anything. Given their size, that alone is enough for many visitors.

For those who want to do more, paid admission grants access to the attractions inside and around the dinosaurs. This includes walking inside Dinny, visiting the gift shop, and exploring Mr. Rex’s Dinosaur Adventure, which features life-size dinosaur models, interactive exhibits, a fossil dig area, and the chance to climb up inside Mr. Rex.

Admission prices and hours can change, so it’s best to check the official Cabazon Dinosaurs website before visiting.

What Is It Like to Visit?

Visitors often describe the Cabazon Dinosaurs as equal parts nostalgic, strange, and fun. The experience works especially well for families, road-trip travelers, and anyone who appreciates quirky attractions that don’t take themselves too seriously.

According to visitor reviews on Tripadvisor, most people spend between one and two hours exploring the site, depending on how much time they spend walking the grounds and checking out the exhibits.

The surrounding area includes additional dinosaur sculptures and displays, making it a surprisingly walkable stop with plenty of photo opportunities.

Pop Culture and Why They’re So Famous

The Cabazon Dinosaurs gained widespread fame in the 1980s thanks to appearances in movies and television. Their most iconic moment came in Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, where they were featured alongside the now-demolished Wheel Inn.

They also appeared in the 1989 film The Wizard and have since shown up in commercials, travel shows, and countless social media posts. Even people who have never visited Southern California often recognize the dinosaurs instantly.

Tips for Visiting the Cabazon Dinosaurs

• Time your visit: Early morning or late afternoon offers better light and fewer crowds.
• Bring water and sun protection: The desert sun is unforgiving year-round.
• Plan nearby stops: Hadley Fruit Orchards, Morongo Casino Resort & Spa, and the Cabazon Outlets are all close by.
• Don’t overthink it: Even a 10-minute stop is worth it.

Are the Cabazon Dinosaurs Worth Stopping For?

If you enjoy roadside attractions, desert oddities, or anything that falls into the category of “you won’t see this everywhere,” the Cabazon Dinosaurs are absolutely worth a stop.

You don’t need to make a full afternoon of it, but as a break from the drive or a quick detour on your way to Palm Springs, they deliver exactly what they promise: something big, strange, and memorable in the middle of the desert.

Where Can You Learn More?

For current hours, admission details, and special events, visit the official Cabazon Dinosaurs website.

Last updated: December 2025