Many young learners are fascinated with fossils, particularly charismatic forms such as dinosaurs and giant sharks. Fossils provide tangible, objective evidence of life that lived millions of years ago. They also provide a timescale of evolution not typically appreciated by young learners. Fossils and the science of paleontology can, therefore, serve as a gateway for learning and engagement about a diversity of topics and concepts, as well as the processes of science. According to "A Framework for K-12 Science Education" (NRC 2012), students should be provided with opportunities to experience how science is actually done, thereby developing relevant skills for careers in science. Integrating museum collections in the elementary science classroom has the potential to stimulate curiosity in young learners about ancient environments while attracting students to the field of paleontology and associated sciences. This article describes a third-grade lesson that uses museum collections to help students understand the potential range of diversity represented by the fossil record while facilitating a more relaxed and intimate experience with the artifacts. By manipulating and exploring the variety of fossils, students learned about different types of fossils and used them to make some inferences about ancient environments.