The Sternberg Museum will be hosting a trip to the Denver/Boulder, Colorado area in December to learn about fossils, paleontology and the science behind the creation of beer.

The trip will begin on December in Hays where participants will start the expedition at the Sternberg Museum for a meet and greet and “behind the scenes” fossil collection tour. The visit will give travelers a chance to “find out what goes into the curation process and why fossil collections are crucial to answering many important science questions.” The group will then travel to Hay’s own Defiance Brewery to chat with the brewmaster’s about their process. After an evening dinner, the group will then travel to Denver.

Saturday’s agenda includes a stop at the Denver Museum of Natural History with another behind-the-scenes tour of their fossil collections.

“Participants will have a chance to ask questions and learn about the history of life recorded in the rocks of Colorado,” said Public Relations Intern Marcella McCluskey. “Museum education staff will make a point of discussing the differences and similarities in the fossil record between Kansas and Colorado through time.”

Time will also be given to view the other exhibits at the museum. Following the museum stop, the group will use the rest of Saturday and Sunday to visit various breweries throughout Denver and Boulder including the De Steeg Brewery, where the brewmaster is a mechanical engineer.

“The idea for this trip came from our desire to broaden the range of programs we offer,” said education director David Levering. “We already had a lot of stuff for kids and young adults, so we we’re looking for something to fill the void for those that were older.”

The trip is intended for those 21 and older. All participants must have a valid photo ID with proof of age.

“There will be a very strong emphasis on the science components of this trip,” Levering said. “I know it may look like we’re just going there to drink beer, which is a byproduct of the trip, but there are a lot of really good breweries that are cooperating with us on this trip.

Levering said the trip is $450 for museum members and $500 for non-members, but different payments can be arranged for couples or friends traveling together. The cost will cover travel, lodging and the various excursions. Participants are expected to be back in Hays on Sunday night.