In the latest episode of The Building Texas Show, host Justin McKenzie explores why Glen Rose, a town of roughly 2,700 residents located an hour south of Fort Worth, has become a surprising tourism powerhouse. The episode, titled "Glen Rose's Strangest Attraction Isn't What You'd Expect," features Traci Niedziela, Tourism Director for Glen Rose, who reveals that while 28% of Texans live within a 90-minute drive, many have never ventured beyond the state park exit. Niedziela aims to reframe Glen Rose as a full weekend destination, not just a quick day trip.
Key attractions discussed include 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 at the visitor center. The Texas Amphitheater is staging The Little Mermaid in June, performed over an actual water moat. Two rivers, Big Rocks Park, and cabin stays like Anderson Creek Cabins along the Paluxy River offer additional activities.
A standout feature is the citywide scavenger hunt involving 98 uniquely painted dinosaurs tied to local businesses. Niedziela explained: "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 such as Fossil Rim entry passes, Dinosaur World tickets, and free ice cream at Shoo Fly.
The episode also delves into the economic drivers behind the town's five major hotels. Niedziela credits the nearby Comanche Peak nuclear power plant for generating midweek corporate retreat and conference demand from Sunday through Thursday, which supports lodging capacity for weekend leisure travelers. The discussion also covers Leadership Glen Rose, hospitality training among local businesses, and the visibility of Mayor Joe Bowles, who stopped by Niedziela's office before recording to plan a July 4th parade, dunk tank, and hot dog eating contest. The town's 250th birthday weekend will conclude 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.
