Roadside Wonders: Meet Dinny and Mr. Rex—California’s Iconic Dinosaur Duo!

Photos and Story By Ken Hulsey

You can't miss the towering 100-foot giants standing proudly by the highway! That was exactly the vision of restaurant owner and artist Claude Bell when he created a colossal replica of a Brontosaurus, affectionately named Dinny. Built from leftover materials from the construction of the nearby I-10 freeway, this awe-inspiring creature came to life in 1964, complete with a gift shop nestled inside to entice hungry travelers to the Wheel Inn Restaurant. Fast forward to 1981, and Dinny welcomed a formidable companion—a Tyrannosaurus Rex named Mr. Rex! Initially, Mr. Rex was equipped with a slide for adventurous kids, but safety concerns led to the slide being removed and plastered over, ensuring that everyone could enjoy the spectacle without worry.

The excitement didn't stop there! In the 1980s, these two legendary dinosaurs burst onto the scene as pop culture icons, making memorable appearances in the music video for the British duo Tears for Fears' hit song "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" and the whimsical film "Pee Wee's Big Adventure" in 1985. Their fame only grew as they captured the imagination of audiences far and wide.

Although the Wheel Inn Restaurant closed its doors in 2013, Dinny and Mr. Rex have continued to thrive, now part of the vibrant Mr. Rex's Dinosaur Adventure, an incredible dinosaur-themed attraction that has sprung up next door! The gift shop inside Dinny is still rocking and rolling, offering a fantastic selection of dinosaur toys, t-shirts, and other fun memorabilia for fans of all ages.

With the addition of a large outlet mall and an Indian casino just down the road, there are now even more reasons to stop off the I-10 in Cabazon. Yet, it’s these two amazing concrete leviathans that continue to ignite the imaginations of children and adults alike, reminding us of the wonder and excitement that comes with a love for dinosaurs. Whether you're a nostalgic traveler or a curious explorer, a visit to see Dinny and Mr. Rex is an unforgettable adventure waiting to happen!

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