Exploring the Enchanting Wells Dinosaur Haven in Uncasville, CT

Image from the Wells Dinosaur Haven Facebook page

In the quiet backwoods of Uncasville, Connecticut, Wells Dinosaur Haven is a whimsical sanctuary of prehistoric art created by the imaginative Jeff "Fish" Wells. Since 1981, Jeff has been transforming his backyard into a captivating landscape filled with life-size dinosaur sculptures, making it a must-visit destination for dinosaur enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

A Labor of Love and Creativity

Jeff Wells initially planned to create a rock and roll park featuring caricatures of famous musicians like Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan. However, a casual conversation with his paperboy made him realize that his idea might not resonate with everyone. During a cross-country trip with his wife, photographing dinosaur parks for an art magazine, Jeff found his true calling. Inspired by the lifelike dinosaurs he saw, he decided to build his own.

Despite having no prior experience in sculpting dinosaurs, Jeff's background in art helped him to bring his vision to life. His first creations were rough, learning experiences marked by quirky details and unexpected challenges. For instance, his early stegosaurus had skin bumps made from walnut shells, which were later devoured by squirrels. The harsh New England winters also taught Jeff valuable lessons in durability and construction.

From Art to Engineering

Jeff's determination to improve led him to seek advice from experts at the nearby Electric Boat shipyard, where he learned welding and structural steelwork. This new knowledge transformed his approach, allowing him to create more robust and enduring sculptures. His crowning achievement is a full-size Tyrannosaurus rex, featuring a ribbed structure similar to a submarine hull and a translucent skin that whimsically resembles the interior of the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile.

An Artistic Haven

Each dinosaur in Wells Dinosaur Haven tells a unique story, often with personal touches. Jeff enjoys incorporating familiar faces into his creations, making the dinosaurs' expressions resemble those of family and friends. His masterpiece, the T-rex, even includes an oversized mandolin, a playful addition that took over a year to complete.

Jeff's dinosaurs are painted in muted earth tones, reflecting his belief in their natural appearance and his desire to maintain a tranquil environment. Unlike commercial dinosaur parks with flashy displays and sound effects, Wells Dinosaur Haven offers a serene retreat where visitors can appreciate the artistry without distraction. Jeff's motto, "Always Visible, Always Free," underscores his commitment to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for all.

Visiting Wells Dinosaur Haven

Located at 2464 Route 32, Uncasville, CT, Wells Dinosaur Haven is easy to miss amidst the trees. Look for the red house, brown fence, and a small dinosaur sign to find this hidden gem. While admission is free, donations are welcome to support the upkeep and creation of new sculptures.

Directions:
From I-395, take exit 79-A and immediately take the Hwy 2A exit 1. Drive north on Hwy 32 for half a mile. The Haven is on the left, across from the Mohegan Sun Casino.

Hours:
Visits are by appointment only, so be sure to call ahead. Local health policies may affect hours and access.

A Peaceful Retreat Amidst Modern Hustle

Despite the nearby billion-dollar casino, Wells Dinosaur Haven remains a peaceful escape, echoing the simplicity and creativity of a bygone era. Jeff Wells continues to work on his dinosaurs, driven by his passion for large-scale art. He dreams of creating even more magnificent sculptures, like a brachiosaurus, and intends to keep building until he can no longer do so.

Wells Dinosaur Haven is a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance. Jeff Wells's journey from an art enthusiast to a dinosaur sculptor is inspiring, and his backyard haven offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a local or just passing through Uncasville, a visit to Wells Dinosaur Haven promises to be a memorable adventure into a world where art and imagination reign supreme.

For more information and to plan your visit, be sure to call ahead and get ready to step into a prehistoric wonderland unlike any other.