Located within the iconic The TOP Penang at KOMTAR, the Jurassic Research Centre is one of Penang’s most unique indoor attractions, offering visitors an immersive journey into the prehistoric world of dinosaurs. Designed as both an educational and entertainment venue, this attraction blends scientific interpretation with interactive exhibits, making it highly appealing to families, students, and curious travellers alike.
As one of Malaysia’s largest dinosaur-themed indoor exhibits, the centre recreates the ancient Jurassic environment with remarkable attention to detail. Visitors can explore life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, fossil displays, and simulated habitats that bring millions of years of natural history vividly back to life. Whether you are a casual visitor or a serious enthusiast of paleontology, the Jurassic Research Centre provides a compelling and memorable experience.
A Journey Back to the Age of Dinosaurs
The Jurassic Research Centre is not merely a static exhibition. It is conceptualised as a “living laboratory,” where visitors are encouraged to engage with the science behind dinosaurs. The attraction features over 200 dinosaur replicas, many of which are designed with scientifically accurate details such as skin textures, proto-feathers, and skeletal structures.
Walking through the centre feels like stepping into a prehistoric ecosystem. The exhibits are arranged in themed zones that simulate different geological periods and environments. From towering Tyrannosaurus rex models to smaller, lesser-known species, each display is accompanied by educational panels explaining the dinosaur’s anatomy, behaviour, and evolutionary significance.
One of the highlights is the fossil study section, where visitors can observe real fossil specimens and learn how paleontologists reconstruct ancient life forms. These exhibits provide insight into scientific methodologies such as fossil preservation, excavation, and comparative anatomy.
Interactive and Educational Experience
What sets the Jurassic Research Centre apart from conventional museums is its interactive approach. Rather than passively viewing exhibits, visitors are encouraged to engage directly with the displays.
Children, in particular, benefit from hands-on learning opportunities. They can explore dinosaur eggs, touch fossil replicas, and observe moving animatronic dinosaurs that simulate real-life behaviours. The centre effectively combines education with entertainment, making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging.
For school groups and educational tours, the centre serves as a practical extension of classroom learning. Topics such as evolution, extinction, and Earth’s geological history are presented in a visually compelling format, enhancing understanding and retention.
Location and Accessibility
The Jurassic Research Centre is strategically located within The TOP Penang, one of the island’s main entertainment hubs, in KOMTAR, Penang's tallest building. This central location makes it highly accessible for both local visitors and tourists.
Its proximity to major transport links, including bus terminals and urban amenities, ensures convenient access. Visitors can easily combine their visit with other attractions within The TOP Penang complex, such as the Rainbow Skywalk, Tech Dome, and Penang Boutique Aquarium.
Operating Hours
The Jurassic Research Centre generally operates daily, but its hours may vary slightly depending on operational schedules within The TOP Penang.
Standard operating hours:
-
Daily: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (last entry around 6:30 PM)
Some sources indicate extended hours for the overall complex, but the Jurassic Research Centre itself typically closes earlier than the rooftop attractions.
It is advisable for visitors to check the latest schedule before visiting, as operating hours may change during public holidays or special events.
Ticket Prices
Ticket pricing for the Jurassic Research Centre can vary depending on whether visitors purchase a single-attraction ticket or a bundled package that includes other attractions at The TOP Penang.
Indicative ticket prices:
-
Single attraction ticket: RM58 for adults, RM48 for children/senior citizens (as of April 2026)
-
TOP Big 5 combo packages (Rainbow Skywalk, Observatory Deck, Sky Bridge, Top Boutique Aquarium, and Jurassic Research Center): RM58 for adults, RM48 for children/senior citizens (as of April 2026)
Combo tickets are generally recommended, as they provide better value by including access to several attractions within the same complex.
Why Visit the Jurassic Research Centre?
1. Unique Indoor Attraction
Unlike outdoor theme parks, the Jurassic Research Centre is fully indoor and air-conditioned, making it an excellent option regardless of weather conditions—particularly important in Penang’s tropical climate.
2. Family-Friendly Experience
The attraction caters to visitors of all ages. Children are fascinated by the life-sized dinosaurs, while adults can appreciate the scientific and educational aspects.
3. Educational Value
The centre offers substantial educational content, making it ideal for school groups, families, and anyone interested in natural history.
4. Central Location
Situated in the heart of George Town, it is easy to incorporate into a broader itinerary that includes cultural, historical, and modern attractions.
5. Integrated Entertainment Hub
Being part of The TOP Penang allows visitors to enjoy multiple attractions in one location, enhancing overall value and convenience.
Ideal Duration and Visitor Tips
A typical visit to the Jurassic Research Centre takes approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on the level of engagement with the exhibits.
Recommended tips:
-
Visit earlier in the day to avoid crowds.
-
Consider combo tickets for better value.
-
Allocate additional time for other attractions within The TOP Penang.
-
Bring a camera—many exhibits are highly photogenic.
Conclusion
The Jurassic Research Centre in Penang offers a distinctive blend of education, entertainment, and immersive storytelling. By combining scientifically informed exhibits with interactive features, it successfully transforms prehistoric history into a vivid, engaging experience.
For visitors seeking more than Penang’s traditional cultural and culinary attractions, this centre offers a refreshing alternative. Its strategic location within The TOP Penang, coupled with its family-friendly design and educational depth, makes it a worthwhile addition to any Penang itinerary.
Whether you are travelling with children, organising an educational tour, or simply exploring the island, the Jurassic Research Centre delivers a memorable journey into a world that existed millions of years ago—brought convincingly back to life in the heart of modern George Town.
Contact
Whatsapp: +60172890800
Call: +0123368074 / +0172890366
Email:
Contact Lawrence Blue, a licensed Malaysian tour guide, to bring you to places of interest in Penang.
