Explore what may lie beneath the surface at ADKX during a day of hands-on discovery focused on archaeological fieldwork.

Visitors can connect with student archaeologists at an interactive Exploration Station, try their hand at cleaning and processing artifacts, and learn how materials are documented and interpreted.

Pre-registered guided site tours and “Shadow the Dig Crew” experiences offer a closer look at active excavation work, while a family-friendly Kids’ Dig Zone invites younger visitors to take part in their own mock dig. Open to curious minds of all ages (with some experiences age limited) this event embraces the process of discovery! See registration information below:

Shadow the Dig Crew

Take part in the Shadow the Dig Crew Experience, a pre-registered, small-group program offering a guided introduction to active excavation work.

Group size is limited to 8 people per session to ensure safety and help preserve the integrity of the dig site. Excavation areas may be located off of Center Campus and could involve hiking up or down steep, uneven terrain—participants should be prepared for a potentially strenuous walk and use their own judgement when registering; sneakers or durable closed-toed shoes are required. 

Designed for ages 14 and up, this experience invites visitors to join the archaeological team in the field to observe techniques, assist with basic tasks, and learn how finds are documented and handled. Pre-registration is required.

Guided Excavation Site Tour

Join a guided excavation site tour with Dr. Hadley Kruczek-Aaron for an up-close look at active or recently excavated dig sites on or around the ADKX campus.

Designed for ages 14 and up, pre-registration is required, and groups are capped at 12 people to ensure safety and to protect the integrity of the site. Excavation areas may be located off of Center Campus and could involve hiking up or down steep, uneven terrain—participants should be prepared for a potentially strenuous walk and use their own judgement when registering; sneakers or durable closed-toed shoes are required. 

These tours offer insight into the history of the site, the methods used in excavation, and how discoveries are documented and understood—while recognizing that artifacts cannot be guaranteed. Pre-registration is required