What's Happening?
Field Station: Dinosaurs, a popular adventure park in Leonia, New Jersey, is closing its doors permanently on November 9. In preparation for the closure, the park is selling its collection of life-size animatronic dinosaurs on Facebook Marketplace. The sale includes over 20 dinosaurs, with prices ranging from $700 to $2,800. Notable items include a Pterodactyl priced at $850, a Stegosaurus for $1,260, and a Triceratops for $2,230. The largest item, a 39-foot Tyrannosaurus Rex, is listed at $2,700 and comes with a control box and speaker. Buyers are responsible for the deinstallation and transportation costs of the dinosaurs.
Why It's Important?
The sale of these animatronic dinosaurs marks the end of an era for Field Station: Dinosaurs, a park that has been a unique attraction in New Jersey. This event highlights the challenges faced by niche entertainment venues in maintaining operations, especially in a competitive market. The closure and subsequent sale may impact local tourism and the economy, as the park has been a draw for families and dinosaur enthusiasts. Additionally, the sale provides a rare opportunity for collectors and businesses to acquire unique, large-scale animatronics, which could be used for educational purposes or as attractions in other venues.
What's Next?
As the park prepares for its final closure, potential buyers of the animatronic dinosaurs will need to arrange for the logistics of removing and transporting these large items. The closure may prompt discussions among local stakeholders about the future use of the park's site and the potential for new attractions or developments in the area. Additionally, the sale could inspire other parks with similar attractions to consider alternative revenue streams or closure strategies.
