Glen Rose, a town of roughly 2,700 residents located one hour south of Fort Worth, is drawing tourists with an array of attractions that go beyond its well-known state park. In the latest episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie speaks with Traci Niedziela, Tourism Director for Glen Rose, about why 28% of Texans live within a 90-minute drive yet many have never explored beyond the state park exit. The episode, published June 25, 2026, reframes Glen Rose as a full weekend destination rather than a quick day trip.
Key attractions highlighted include Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, where baby giraffes and a baby zebra born in February can be seen; Dinosaur Valley State Park and Dinosaur World; and the new animatronic Rex Ann at the visitor center. The Texas Amphitheater's June production of The Little Mermaid is staged over an actual water moat. Two rivers, Big Rocks Park, and cabin stays along the Paluxy River, such as Anderson Creek Cabins, offer additional recreational options.
A citywide scavenger hunt features 98 uniquely painted dinosaurs tied to local businesses. Niedziela explains: "We've got 98 dinosaurs that are located throughout our city. They're all uniquely painted, so each one represents its business. For example, the hospital has a doctor in front of it, the dinosaur is painted like a doctor. Our school district has a tiger, that's our school mascot, so the dinosaur is painted like a tiger." Players scan a QR code at any hotel or the visitor center to unlock rewards including Fossil Rim entry passes, Dinosaur World tickets, and free ice cream at Shoo Fly.
The episode also explores the economic backbone behind the town's five major hotels. Niedziela credits the nearby Comanche Peak nuclear power plant for driving midweek corporate retreat and conference demand Sunday through Thursday, which helps support lodging capacity for weekend leisure travelers. She and McKenzie discuss Leadership Glen Rose, the hospitality training culture among local businesses, and the visibility of Mayor Joe Bowles, who stopped by her office before recording to plan a July 4th parade, dunk tank, and hot dog eating contest. The town's 250th birthday weekend will close with a fireworks show reflected over Wheeler Branch Park's water.
Listeners can find planning details at ExploreGlenRose.com, and the episode is available now wherever podcasts are heard.
