Dinosaurs, treehouses, safaris, oh my! If those things don't sell you on a Glen Rose getaway right off the bat then I don't know what to tell you. Oh, wait, yes I do, there's more, much more. How about swimming holes, antique shops, and hiking? Whether you're traveling with the family or looking for a romantic Texas retreat, there are so many incredible things to do around Glen Rose.
This adorable Texas town packs a hill country punch, without the drive. Glen Rose is an easy day trip from Dallas or Fort Worth that is well worth the venture. In just one day, you can hit up a hike at Dinosaur Valley State Park, grab a bite in the historic town center, and cool off in the river at Big Rock Park. For those planning on spending the weekend in Glen Rose, stay at most darling Airbnb treehouse and take your time exploring. Glen Rose might be a small-town, but boy is it mighty.
Treehouse, Glamping, or Bungalow: Take Your Pick
Where to Stay in Glen Rose, TX
The couple behind Skybox Cabins in Glen Rose poured their hearts and souls into this huge, hilly 50-acre property - and it shows. Across the 50 -acres, there are currently three - soon to be four - artisan-crafted cabins and glamping and camping sites to enjoy a slice of nature. The Birdhouse took it home as the best Texas Airbnb I've stayed at to date. The astounding treehouse sits perched down a winding dirt path. A set of stairs leads you up to a swinging bridge, lined with romantic string lights by night. Just off the bedroom is a beautiful balcony, perfect for catching a Texas sunset with a glass of wine.
Every detail in the treehouse is thoughtful. I wasn't surprised in the slightest at how many signers of the guestbook were staying for their honeymoon or anniversary. When you aren't soaking in the rustic details of The Birdhouse, wander around the property's hiking trails, make friends with the horses and drool over the other cabins on site. (But trust me, you have plenty of privacy, you'd never know you weren't the only one there.) A stay at Skybox Cabins will undoubtedly bring your Glen Rose trip to the next level.
Discover Texas Dinosaur Tracks
Where to Hike in Glen Rose, TX
Right down the river from downtown Glen Rose, you'll find Dinosaur Valley State Park. The terrain will come as a welcomed surprise for those traveling from DFW. There are miles of hiking trails ranging from rocky and hilly to wet and wooded. The remote camping site along the river will have you looking to book right away (they fill up fast, so maybe you should.)
As you notice, the state park has the word dinosaur in it. Ignoring the massive dino structures upon entrance to the park will also be impossible. So what's the deal? Well, the coolest part of this Texas state park is that on clear days, you can see fossilized dinosaur footprints crossing through the riverbed. If you can catch sight of one, this alone makes the trip to Glen Rose worth it. The icing on the cake? You can swim (or set foot in the prints) in the Paluxy River - a true Texas delight on a hot summer day.
Splash Around in Town - Go Big at Big Rock Park
Swimming Holes Near DFW
Dinosaur Valley State Park isn't the only spot to swim in Glen Rose. Strangely enough, [Big Rocks Park](From Safaris to Swimming Holes: Glen Rose is A Glorious Small-town Texas Getaway ) is a secret gem that took me three trips to Glen Rose to find. Tucked just off the main road through town is free to access for floating the Paluxy River or a day of grilling out and soaking up the sun. Big Rock Park is creatively named after the massive boulders that line alongside the river bed. For those looking for a natural swimming hole near DFW, it’s a true dream come true.
The Most Texas Thing: A Drive-thru Safari
What to Know About Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose
Dinosaur Valley State Park gives you your fill of the pre-historic animals, while Fossil Rim Wildlife Center delivers the modern-day classics. Channel your inner-child or load the family up into the car for this Texas travel adventure like no other. Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is essentially a drive-thru safari experience where you can interact and feed all sorts of safari animals. Think zebras, giraffes, and even ostriches. The park works to protect and conserve at-risk species, with a twist of family fun.
Stop at the welcome center to purchase your feed and tickets and then set off on your own self-guided safari. I assure you, the laughter will be non-stop and is well worth the price tag. Plus, it's going to a good cause. Use caution and be considerate to both the animals and human-counterparts.
Shop, Sip, and Much Around the Historic Town Square
Things to Do in Downtown Glen Rose
Another marvel of Glen Rose that I managed to miss over the course of my first few visits was the adorable town square packed with history and all sorts of sweet shops. Start in the past. Catch a history lesson outside the courthouse, move forward to the fifties with a milkshake at the Shoo-fly Soda Shop, then peak at some antique gems around the square.
Right down the road, you'll find a fairy tale book store and sandwich shop appropriately named Storiebook Cafe. If you're looking for casual but cool dinner spot, head to Riverhouse Grill housed in an elegant, converted Texas home. Last but not least, grab a glass of wine from the Bull Lion Ranch Wine Shop and be sure to wander through the back to the art gallery and boutique. Last but not least, wander right around the corner to the Welcome to Glen Rose, TX mural to capture a weekend well spent.
More tips on things to do around Glen Rose, TX or DFW day trips? Submit them here.