Iconic world's largest dinosaur in Alberta closing at end of 2029
It’s one of the most iconic, quirky, and unique things to see during a road trip in Alberta, and now the world’s largest dinosaur will only be welcoming visitors for a few more years.
The Drumheller & District Chamber of Commerce announced today that the iconic World’s Largest Dinosaur (WLD), known affectionately as Tyra, along with its adjoining gift shop and visitor information centre, will close at the end of the current lease term in December 2029. This decision follows a strategic planning process conducted by the Chamber.
Tyra has stood over the town known for its prehistoric treasures for a quarter of a century, a towering symbol of Drumheller’s rich connection to dinosaur history and tourism, attracting visitors from around the world. Tyra weighs in at 65 tonnes and stands at 25 metres, more than four times bigger than a real Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Due to its size, the Chamber said it would not be exploring re-location options of the structure at this time, and for now, the Chamber is providing information about the lease renewal to its members and partners. The Chamber will look to provide an opportunity to honour Tyra and her legacy prior to the end of 2025.
As the owners of the world’s largest dinosaur and gift shop, and operators of the Visitors Information Centre, the Chamber says it has secured a land lease extension through to 2029, however, they are not interested in continuing the lease beyond that time and it’s expected that Tyra will be dismantled upon lease expiry in 2029.
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“While this announcement is a difficult one, it’s also an opportunity for the Chamber to refocus on our core mission: supporting local businesses, advocating on their behalf and fostering economic growth in Drumheller,” said Lana Phillips, president of the Chamber, in a news release.
“We invite the community and visitors to make the most of the remaining years to create lasting memories with Tyra.”
Over the coming years, the Chamber will work with Travel Drumheller, the Town of Drumheller, businesses, and residents to commemorate Tyra in the community and work to ensure that visitors continue to come to Drumheller and support local businesses.
“Tyra’s story isn’t ending — it’s evolving,” said Heather Bitz, executive director of the Chamber. “We’ll be looking for ways to honour the memories, stories, and community impact that Tyra has created over the years.”
The Chamber will ensure that Tyra’s legacy continues to benefit Drumheller long after her final visitors, and will explore ways to memorialize Tyra’s impact through community initiatives, storytelling and potential commemorative projects.
The Drumheller & District Chamber of Commerce released a frequently asked questions form regarding the closure online.