The 30 Best Dinosaur Gifts of 2023

Our favorites from National Geographic, LEGO, VTech, Dino Ranch, Toyk, and more

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Best Dinosaur Toys and Gifts

The Spruce / Chloe Jeong

Dinosaurs are figurines that provide children with tools to learn while also practicing the art of make-believe, says Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a neuropsychologist at Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services in New York City.

We researched and tested the best dinosaur toys from top brands, considering recommended age range, safety, and interactivity. Our favorite picks include a fossil dig kit from National Geographic, adorable rain boots from Bogs, and a fuzzy plush dino from Manhattan Toys.

Here are the best dinosaur toys for kids and beyond.

Our Top Picks

National Geographic Mega Fossil Dig Kit

4.5
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Mega Fossil Dig Kit

Courtesy by Amazon

What kid (or adult!) wouldn't want to dig for dinosaur fossils? This STEM activity kit lets children discover 15 different real fossils. Using the chisel and brush, they'll unearth gastropods, teeth, bones, and more. As they uncover these finds, they can read up on them in the 16-page guide that includes images and information on each specimen.

Our tester loved that this science kit provided her child with a basic but fun introduction to paleontology and earth science. My child learned a ton from it, including what it's like to dig for fossils in the field, what fossils are, and how they are formed," they shared. It took about an hour for our tester's daughter to find all of the fossils, and she particularly enjoyed inspecting and identifying them using the included magnifying glass. 

Price at time of publish: $25

National Geographic Mega Fossil Mine Dig Kit

The Spruce / Deanna McCormack

LEGO Creator Mighty Dinosaurs 31058 Build It Yourself Dinosaur Set

4.5
LEGO Creator 3in1 Mighty Dinosaurs 31058 Building Toy Set for Kids

Courtesy by Amazon

This LEGO set can create a pterodactyl, Triceratops, or T-Rex with 174 pieces providing them with hours of entertainment and STEM-building skills. There are tons of accessories like colorful eyes, claws, and teeth, so kids can truly flex their creativity. And once the dinosaur is complete, kids can enjoy the moving parts of their build for tons of imaginative play. Our tester also loves the versatility of the toy, saying "What’s also great about this kit is that once she’s tired of the triceratops, she can use those pieces to build a pterodactyl instead."

Price at time of publish: $12

LEGO Creator Mighty Dinosaurs

The Spruce / Angelica Leicht

Manhattan Toys Little Jurassics Finn Plesiosaurus Stuffed Animal

Manhattan Toy Little Jurassics Finn Plesiosaurus Stuffed Animal

Courtesy by Amazon

While this adorable dinosaur plush may start out as nursery decor for a baby or toddler, it will quickly turn into their first dinosaur toy that they will love hugging and cuddling. Finn, the plesiosaurus, is a perfect addition to any plushie collection, and as little ones grow older, they can learn more about the dinosaur they love.

Price at time of publish: $10

Easuntec 3D Dinosaur Night-Light

easuntec Dinosaur Toys 3D Night Light with Remote & Smart Touch 7 Colors

Courtesy by Amazon

Dino lovers of all ages will love adding a T-rex to their bedroom decor with this awesome night light from Easuntec. Kids can control the color of their dinosaur with a remote, choosing from red, green, blue, yellow, cyan, purple, and white, as well as different flash modes to fit every mood and occasion. It runs on batteries or a USB cord, so it can be placed anywhere in their room for a ferocious touch.

Price at time of publish: $23

The Company Store Hooded Towel

Company Kids Character Hooded Towel

The company store

Little dino fans will love warming up after a shower with a dinosaur-themed towel, complete with menacing teeth and colorful spikes all down the back. The Company Store's kids' towels are woven of soft and absorbent cotton terry to keep skin cozy and dry. Personalize the towel with your child's name for an extra-special gift they will enjoy for years.

Price at time of publish: $54

3 Bees & Me Dinosaur Toys

3 Bees and Me Dinosaur Car Toys for Toddlers

Courtesy by Amazon

Got a little dinosaur lover on your hands? This set of four rolling dino toys will have your preschooler moving around the house with joy. This pack includes a T-Rex, Stegosaurus, Brontosaurus, and Triceratops. The adorable design perfectly combines dinos with easy-to-use car toys.

Price at time of publish: $15

VTech Mix and Match-a-Saurus

VTech Mix and Match-a-Saurus

Walmart

This expressive dinosaur is a fun role-play toy for kids ages 2 through 5. Using the nine tiles, kids place them on his back in different combinations. Each one represents a character (dinosaur, robot, monster), type of music (ballet, hip-hop, marching), or feeling (happy, angry, sleepy), and the dino will respond with noises and movements based on each tile. He can talk, sing, dance, and move, and there are 27 different performances in all.

Price at time of publish: $29

Jurassic World Chomp 'n Roar Mask Velociraptor Blue

Jurassic World Velociraptor Blue Chomp 'n Roar Electronic Mask with Opening Jaws

Courtesy by Amazon

If your kid is really into "Jurassic World," let them play out the Blue character with this interactive mask. Children will get a kick out of the three different sounds and chomping styles this mask has. If anything, you'll be sure to get some great pictures out of this buy, and will scare the neighbors. Buy a bunch for imaginative play at a dinosaur-themed birthday party.

Price at time of publish: $25

HearthSong Inflatable Hop 'n Go Ride-On Dinosaur

HearthSong Inflatable Dinosaur Bouncer Set

Courtesy by Amazon

Race through prehistoric worlds on these inflatable dinosaur ride-on toys from HearthSong. The durable toys can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors and can hold up to 200 pounds so kids of all ages can get in on the fun. The green dinos are easy to inflate and have two handles to keep little ones from falling off and a weighted sand bottom for sturdiness. They come in sets of two which is perfect for twins or competitive siblings.

Price at time of publish: $50

National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Dinosaurs

National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Dinosaurs

Courtesy by Amazon

Bring the prehistoric age to life with this informative book intended for children. With these illustrations, kids will get a better sense of what the dinosaurs' day-to-day life was like while they practice their reading and comprehension skills.

Price at time of publish: $9

Prextex Realistic Looking 7" Dinosaurs Pack

PREXTEX Dinosaur Toys for Kids 3-5

Courtesy by Amazon

The best dinosaur toys inspire imagination. This set of 12 dinosaurs comes with a book that highlights facts about each type including habitat, diet, size, and more. As they learn about the Monoclonious, Triceratops, and more, they'll begin to act out play scenes at home.

Price at time of publish: $17

Hey Clay Dinos

Fat Brain Toys Hey Clay Kits

Courtesy by Blick art materials

This kit comes with 18 small cans of modeling clay that kids can use to build six different dinosaurs: Stegosaurus, Tyrannosaurus rex, Brachiosaurus, Pachycephalosaurus, Triceratops, and Pterodactyl. An app provides 3D instructions that explain how to make shapes like spheres and cylinders, as well as facial features and different textures.

Price at time of publish: $20

Rubie's Silly Safari Triceratops Costume

Silly Safari Costume, Triceratops Costume

Courtesy by Amazon

Rubie's is known for making good-looking, high-quality costumes that don't require a Broadway-size budget. This Triceratops suit, sold in two sizes, will fit kids who wear 2T through 6, and the elaborate horned headpiece is easily removable—in case your little one gets hot or cranky and just can't deal. Whether it's Halloween or a random weekday, kids will love transforming into a terrifying (yet adorable) dino.

Price at time of publish: $41

Jurassic World Grab 'n Growl Indoraptor Dinosaur

JURASSIC WORLD GRAB 'N GROWL INDORAPTOR Dinosaur

Courtesy by Amazon

Although this dino is based on the movie "Jurassic World," your kids need not have seen the film to appreciate this dude's realistic awesomeness (and, truth be told, terrifyingness). He's meant to be an "indoraptor," which in the film is a new hybrid known for being small but dangerous. The toy has all kinds of impressive animal effects, including a chomping mouth, a thrashing tail, and glowing, red eyes. Did we mention he also screeches?

Price at time of publish: $182

TEMI Dinosaur Toy Figures with Activity Play Mat

TEMI Dinosaur Toys for Kids 3-5 with Activity Play Mat & Trees

Courtesy by Amazon

Let their imagination run wild with this play mat and nine dinosaur figurines set. Children can create fun scenes with the dinos, as well as the five trees that are included. Best of all, when they are done, the mat and figurines pack up into a handy carrying case making this a smart buy for those who travel or want to keep toys neatly contained.

Price at time of publish: $22

Bogs Neo-Classic Good Dino Rain Boots

NEO-CLASSIC GOOD DINO Kid's Winter Boots

Courtesy by BOGS

Prepare for rainy days with these adorable rain boots from Bogs. The 100 percent waterproof boots come in a bright teal color with a colorful dinosaur pattern sure to delight dino lovers of all ages. The innovative boots feature odor-fighting technology, and a non-slip sole, and are made 30 percent lighter for optimal comfort for kids.

Price at time of publish: $95

Mudpuppy Glow in the Dark Puzzle

100 Piece Glow in the Dark Puzzle - Frogs & Lizards

Courtesy by Fat brain toys

Get the whole family together for a super fun jigsaw puzzle from Mudpuppy. This 500-piece puzzle features glow-in-the-dark pieces that reveal a bright and colorful dinosaur scene. The challenge level is ideal for kids ages 8 and up, but with a little help from grown-ups, even younger kids can enjoy putting the glowing pieces together.

Price at time of publish: $15

Dino Ranch Clubhouse

Dino Ranch Clubhouse,Large 12-Inch Playset with Lights & Sound

Courtesy by Amazon

The hit Disney Junior show Dino Ranch follows the Cassidy family in their daily duties on a prehistoric dinosaur farm. Now, your child can join in on the fun with this Dino Ranch clubhouse play set. They can play as Jon, Min, Blitz, and Clover from the show as they slide down the slide, go through the trap door, care for the dinos, and more.

Price at time of publish: $45

Bixbee Dinosaur Sleeping Bag

Dinosaur Sleeping Bag / Nap Mat

Courtesy by Bixbee

Get ready for outdoor adventures with this adorable dinosaur sleeping bag from Bixbee. Whether you bring it out in the wilderness for sleeping in tents or your little one prefers to use it atop their own bed at home, the sleeping mat features soft and velvety material that zips fully with a convenient carrying handle. Plus, it's machine washable.

Price at time of publish: $80

Schleich Volcano Expedition Base Camp

Volcano Expedition Base Camp

Courtesy by Schleich

Older kids will love exploring an active volcano with this base camp play set from Schleich. The roaring volcano actually erupts with ground-shaking noises and actions. Protect the dinosaurs (and yourself) and as you explore the island for hours of imaginative play.

Price at time of publish: $130

Basic Fun Tiny TV Classics - Jurassic Park Edition

default image

A new collectible from Basic Fun, Tiny TV Classics allows you to watch your favorite movies on the smallest screen possible. The working TV features famous scenes and quotes from the original Jurassic Park that you can control with your tiny remote and arrange on the custom backdrop for a unique viewing experience.

Price at time of publish: $27

Pals Socks T-Rex & Triceratops

T-REX & TRICERATOPS ~ KIDS

Courtesy by Paals

If your little one has trouble matching their socks on a daily basis, lean into the absurdity with Pals Socks, the sock company that makes wacky, mismatched socks for all ages. This dinosaur set features a T-Rex on one foot and a Triceratops on the other. Each pair comes with a collectible card where kids can name their new sock friends and learn how the unlikely dinosaurs came together.

Price at time of publish: $10

Skillmatics Guess in 10 Deadly Dinosaurs

Skillmatics Card Game : Guess in 10 Deadly Dinosaurs

Courtesy by Amazon

Skillmatics' Guess in 10 card game line challenges kids and adults alike to guess a certain Marvel character, safari animal, country, and more by asking 10 questions or less. This version requires knowledge about the deadly and dangerous dinosaurs that once roamed the Earth. Learn more about your favorite dinos, while definitely learning something new in this travel-friendly family game.

Price at time of publish: $15

iPlay, iLearn Dinosaur Train Track Play Set

iPlay, iLearn Kids Train Race Track Play Set

Courtesy By Amazon

This interactive car play set from iPlay, iLearn features an adorable dinosaur at its center. Toddlers guide the cars through obstacles including bridges, cranes, rising platforms, and more. Kids ages 3 and up foster their fine motor and problem-solving skills while navigating the fun toy set.

Price at time of publish: $40

Bentgo Kids Prints Dinosaur Water Bottle

Bentgo Kids Prints Water Bottle

Courtesy by Bentgo

Bentgo's reusable water bottles are aimed at kids with durable and safe BPA-free Tritan material, a leakproof cover, and a safe-spout straw to avoid spilling and overflowing. Plus, they come in adorable designs including one covered in colorful, realistic dinosaurs. Bentgo also offers a lunch box, bento box, and backpack in a matching design.

Price at time of publish: $15

Dinosaurs: 400 Words for Budding Paleontologists

Dinosaurs: 400 Words for Budding Paleontologists

Courtesy by Amazon

Perfect for anyone who loves to learn, this Merriam-Webster mini dictionary contains 400 words relating to dinosaurs and paleontology. The full-color illustrations add interest for even the youngest dino lovers, while all of the facts are backed by scientific research and are up to date.

Price at time of publish: $17

Abacus Brands Virtual Reality Dinosaurs - Illustrated Interactive VR Book and STEM Learning Activity Set

Abacus Brands Virtual Reality Dinosaurs

Courtesy by Amazon

Go beyond just a dinosaur-themed book with this learning activity set from Abacus Brands. As you read through the 80 pages of content, put on the included VR goggles to enter a virtual museum and discover images, videos, and even a realistic T-Rex chase that will make you feel like you've traveled back in time.

Price at time of publish: $60

Funko Jurassic World: The Legacy of Isla Nublar

Funko Jurassic World: The Legacy of Isla Nublar

Courtesy by Amazon

New from Funko Games, Jurassic World: The Legacy of Isla Nublar puts players in the place of scientists to make pivotal decisions about the island and change the course of reality. Players ages 10 and up play through 12 adventures with different outcomes each time, all the while exploring famous characters and locations from the Jurassic World movies.

Price at time of publish: $108

Fisher-Price Imaginext Jurassic World Hatchlings Gift Set

Fisher-Price Imaginext Jurassic World Dinosaur Toys

Courtesy by Amazon

Hatch these baby dinosaurs from their egg-shaped packaging to begin hours of imaginative prehistoric fun. Littles ones as young as 3 years old can move the figures' arms and legs to recreate your favorite scenes from Jurassic World. Additional figures and sets are available to add to your collection and build a world full of adorable raptors.

Price at time of publish: $20

Toyk Create A Dinosaur World Road Race

Dinosaur Toys,Create A Dinosaur World Road Race

Courtesy by Amazon

This extensive building set includes 144 track pieces, four trees, two dinosaurs, two dinosaur-shaped cars and so much more to build your perfect play set every time. The pieces are easy to build and take down for simple storage, while the multiple interactive elements make for hours of fun for boys and girls of all ages.

Price at time of publish: $26

What to Look for in a Dinosaur Toy

Recommended Age

Consider the age of the dino-lover on your list when shopping for your gift, and make sure to check the label to see if it matches up. There are prehistoric-inspired toys for young children who'll enjoy pushing around a whimsical wheeled dinosaur, but this isn’t likely to capture the attention of a teenager who may want something more high-tech or hands-on. If you’re shopping for an adult, look for collectible dinosaur gifts or themed mugs, apparel, or accessories that serve a practical purpose.

Purpose

There's no shortage of realistic, detailed collectible dinosaurs out there, but kids won’t readily learn much from these figurines, except for maybe the different types of dinosaurs. For something with a little more educational value, there's an abundance of more informational gifts, like books or hands-on activities, that teach about science and natural history but still entertain.

Interactivity

Bring another world to life with a dinosaur gift that responds to commands via voice or an app, just keep in mind that these types of gifts are better for older children who can figure out how to operate them without getting frustrated. Or, for a low-tech but still interactive option more suitable to the younger kids, choose from LEGO building kits or sets of realistic dinosaurs for imaginative play.

Safety

While you don’t have to worry about dinosaur bites, you should evaluate any potential toy for safety. Make sure to choose toys made out of rubber or BPA-free plastic for younger kids. You’ll also want to keep any battery-operated toys out of reach of babies and young toddlers since they can be dangerous if ingested, says Hafeez. When they get a bit older, children can handle toys made out of heavier materials—like metal or wood figurines—since they have better control and hand-eye coordination. And for any age, make sure that all materials used have been tested for safety and that any paints are safe for use on toys.

Why Trust the Spruce?

This article was written by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays. She's also covered similar topics in other roles, including toy reviews, product roundups, expert-focused articles, and more.

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