The Springfield Museums presents Here Be Dragons, on view May 24 through September 14 at the Springfield Science Museum. This one-of-a-kind immersive exhibition brings visitors face-to-face with live reptiles, touchable models, and paleontological discoveries that blur the lines between fantasy and reality.

“For centuries dragons have captured human imaginations! This exhibit brings together the fun and fantasy of dragons with animals that really do exist here on Earth,” says Jenny Powers, Director of the Springfield Science Museum. “Families will be fascinated by the living specimens and that it will spark conversations about other fantasy animals or characters that are also inspired by reality.”

Visitors will explore the real-life animals—past and present—that may have inspired myths and fantasy. From prehistoric flying reptiles to their modern relatives, Here Be Dragons combines education, interaction, and a touch of magic. This exhibition is perfect for families, museum enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of myth, biology, and natural history.

Live Reptiles
Get up close with modern “dragons:” the rare Egyptian Uromastyx, the sheltopusik (commonly known as a legless lizard), the semi-aquatic Australian water dragon, the spiny-tailed Ackie monitor, and the ever-popular bearded dragon.

Paleontology Showcase
Fossils and reconstructions of ancient creatures that were real dragons trapped in stone. Upon entering the exhibit gallery, visitors are greeted by a life-size reproduction of a Quetzalcoatlus skeleton. This towering flying reptile lived during the Late Cretaceous period in North America.

Interactive Touch Zones & Reading Corner
Feel the texture of scaled skin and fossilized bones with life-like models and replica fossils designed for hands-on exploration. Young visitors who want to dig deeper into the creatures in the exhibition can settle into dragon egg-shaped chairs and read up on myths and legends from around the world.

Powers adds, “Here Be Dragons, combined with other special exhibitions in our art and history museums, will make the Springfield Museums the most fun destination in Western Massachusetts for families this summer!”

Here Be Dragons is sponsored by Full Power Radio.

MassMutual is the season supporter of the Springfield Museums.