Glen Rose, Texas, a town of roughly 2,700 residents located an hour south of Fort Worth, is redefining itself as a full weekend destination rather than a quick day trip, according to the latest episode of The Building Texas Show. Hosted by Justin McKenzie, the episode features Traci Niedziela, Tourism Director for Glen Rose, who details why 28% of Texans live within a 90-minute drive yet most have never stopped past the state park exit. The conversation, published June 25, 2026, highlights the specific attractions that pack the small Somervell County seat.
Among the draws are Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, which recently welcomed baby giraffes and a baby zebra born in February; Dinosaur Valley State Park; Dinosaur World; and the new animatronic Rex Ann installed at the visitor center. The Texas Amphitheater's June run of The Little Mermaid is staged over an actual water moat, adding a unique twist. Two rivers, Big Rocks Park, and Paluxy River cabin stays such as Anderson Creek Cabins offer outdoor recreation and lodging.
A citywide scavenger hunt featuring 98 uniquely painted dinosaurs tied to local businesses is a signature attraction. 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 delves into the economic backbone behind a small town with five major hotels. Niedziela credits the nearby Comanche Peak nuclear power plant for driving midweek corporate retreat and conference demand Sunday through Thursday, which props up 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 moments 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 this episode is available now wherever podcasts are heard.
