Finding Fun in Glen Rose, Texas
Since there is so much to do in this small town, it is a very popular tourist town in Texas. On many weekends, all year long, you can find all kinds of people arriving for camping, playing and exploring this town that is rich in history.
Glen Rose first got its start as a trading post in 1849. The town is located right on the beautiful Paluxy River, just above the Brazos. Today, you can still come to the historic downtown square to see many of the buildings, such as the original trading post and the ornate courthouse still standing. While you are on the square, be sure to visit all of the unique stores and shops along the way.
Where to stay: One of the most popular things to do in Glen Rose is camping. You can certainly rough it (tent camping) or bring along your RV. There are plenty of camping sites throughout the city. Bring your camping gear, but if you forget anything, you are not too far from shopping. If you prefer the luxury of a soft bed, then that is okay, too. There are two major hotels, the Best Western and the Value America and both are reasonably priced and have good ratings. However, if you are looking for something a bit more relaxed and romantic, try one of the many bed and breakfast places in town.
Now that you have found a place to stay, you might wonder what you will do in such a small town for the weekend. Not to fear. Glen Rose will keep you busy. There are many things to do here that everyone will enjoy.
Dinosaur Valley State Park: This is the most popular place in Glen Rose. People come here from all over to see real dinosaur footprints and the very large and menacing T-Rex and huge Apatosaurus statues. The park, located on the Paluxy River, is absolutely beautiful and scenic. This river flows over some of the best-preserved dino tracks in the state. Sauropods, 60-foot long herbivores, were first discovered here. Tracks of duckbilled dinosaurs and the Theropods are also found along the river. After you have tracked all the footprints, relax in the calm waters or go tubing down the river. If you enjoy hiking, make sure you make the hike up the side of the hill where you can look down on the river. Biking and equestrian trails are also available. The park does charge admission per person. There are several sites for camping and RV hookups.
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center: Fossil Rim is another huge draw to this small town. Located on 2,900 acres, this is the place to be if you are interested in seeing animals roam free on scenic landscape. For your admission, you have a unique opportunity to drive through over 9 miles of wildlife trails. Bring your binoculars and cameras because you never know when you will spot one of the 30 species living here. You can also purchase feed at the gate so you can entice some of the animals to your car. Fossil Rim is dedicated to the protection and research of cheetahs. While these are enclosed, you will get to see several of these graceful animals here. You will also be treated to zebras, deer, rhinos, giraffes, buffalo, ostrich, and more. At the halfway point in the drive, you can stop at The Overlook where you can purchase food (or bring a picnic), a petting area for the kids and a butterfly garden. Want more than the average tour? Look into staying at one of the savannah rooms or hotels in the park. You can also take a behind the scene tour or check out the walking and biking trails.
The Promise: If you plan your trip to Glen Rose anytime in September through November, consider seeing The Promise at the Texas Amphitheater. This is a very popular musical epic about the life of Christ. Shows are held every weekend at 8 pm. Reserve your tickets in advance.
Where to Eat: There are tons of great places to eat when you visit Glen Rose. Don’t even think about eating the same old fast food (although there is plenty of that). Instead, go to one of the non-chain restaurants for some good home cooking or BBQ. Make sure your make your first stop to Two Granny’s Down Home Cooking. This is a must for when you visit Glen Rose. You will never have home cooking again, quite like it is at Two Granny’s. You know the second you walk in that this is like visiting your own granny. Two granny’s actually run this small diner. The second you walk in, they greet you with a granny hug and kiss. No one can escape their charm! They offer all you can eat with two or three main courses (such as fried catfish, pot roast, fried chicken) and several sides including mashed potatoes, rice, green beans, salad, soups and more. Forget about counting calories, too, because several varieties of desserts are available with your meal.
While you are in the square, make sure you take some time to walk around the square and check out the unique shops. Kids will delight in Earthly Possessions and antique lovers will enjoy Over the Hill Antiques. If you love to read, check out Bookshelf on the Square.
Your whole family will enjoy visiting the small town of Glen Rose. You can spend an entire weekend and find fun and entertainment for the whole family.
