Spring Getaway: Glen Rose

I don’t know about you, but the warmer weather in Texas has me itching to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city to the more rural and slower areas of our state. Even in beloved Fort Worth, we can use a change of scenery from time to time. However, that doesn’t mean you have to go far or spend a lot of money to do that!

Tucked away in a valley and about an hour southwest of Fort Worth is my hometown, Glen Rose. This quaint municipality has a little bit of everything; from dinosaur tracks to riverside bed and breakfasts, all sweetly packaged with the small-town charm of a Hallmark film. Have I piqued your interest yet? Then grab your next adventure itinerary and read below for a list of my favorite sites in Glen Rose, TX!

Things to do:

Historic Downtown Square

The Downtown square is one of the central highlights to Glen Rose. You’ll feel like a Gilmore Girl strolling through Stars Hollow while you shop unique antiques and boutiques – all within easy walking distance to restaurants, cafes, and riverside parks.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Named the dinosaur capital of Texas, Dinosaur Valley State Park is known for the unforgettable sight of dinosaur footprints in the Paluxy riverbed. Other activities include hiking, biking, and much more with the whole family!

Dinosaur World

Right by Dinosaur Valley State Park is another dinosaur adventure – Dino World! The outdoor exhibit is acres full of life-size dinosaur statues that will take you back in time.

Big Rocks Park

Another gem that is right by the Historic Downtown Square, Big Rocks is a unique feature beside the Paluxy river made of large, boulder-like limestone rocks to climb, take photos, and explore. On warmer days, the nearby local snow cone shack is open for refreshments and a put-put mini golf!

Fossil Rim

You’ve probably heard of the well-known Safari Zoo in Glen Rose, and, if you haven’t checked it out then be sure to add it to your next Glen Rose itinerary! This Wildlife Center is a conservation of wildlife animals and native and non-native endangered species. This 1,800-acre park features guided tours and self-guided tours to drive along to see (and feed!) animals from Giraffes, Zebras, Ostriches and more!

The Promise at The Texas Amphitheater

The Texas Amphitheater of Glen Rose annually puts on a live musical production of the life of Christ called The Promise. The outdoor theater experience features a performance like no other with live animals, incredible vocalists, and entirely immersive experience into biblical times. The Promise is not the only production they have put on, however. Seasonally, the Amphitheater has featured musicals such as The Sound of Music, special Christmas performances, and concerts for the whole family to enjoy. Keep an eye on their website for upcoming performance dates and tickets!

Where to stay:

Inn on the River

A historic and serene Bed & Breakfast sweetly situated alongside the Paluxy river. The Inn is a wonderful and relaxing escape to enjoy a gourmet breakfast and small-town southern hospitality. The Inn also offers their newly established restaurant – Snyder’s Tavern which is open to public and has a snack menu with indoor and outdoor seating.

Rough Creek Lodge

If you are looking for a full resort experience, Rough Creek Lodge is the place for you and your whole family. From gourmet dining, hunting, swimming, and fishing are just a few things this unique destination has to offer. Check out their website for a detailed list of lodging, amenities and activities that are available!

Country Woods Inn

Over several acres, this unique and beautiful stay features historic houses and even a train caboose to lodge in for your getaway. The property hosts breakfast in their own charming red barn with farm animals to say hello to nearby!

In addition to these great locations, Glen Rose has many great hotels as well as AirBnBs worth checking out!

Food and Dining:

Sugar Biscuit

Right on the Downtown Square, the restaurant offers a menu full of delicious and healthy comfort foods.

Pie Peddlers

Another gem on the square that has just about every flavor of pie you can imagine! Stay a while and order a slice or order a whole pie (or a few) to take home with you!

Riverhouse Grill

The restaurant is a historic house turned restaurant with a more semi-formal dining atmosphere and chef quality menu to match.

Sexton Feed Mill

Another historic landmark turned open air restaurant, bar with live music and nearby axe throwing lanes! This laidback spot is also situated right by the river with quick and easy access to the downtown square, Big Rocks Park and Heritage Park river walk.

These are just a few of my favorite highlights in this sweet small town and I hope they inspire some wonderful adventures with you and your family. I can’t wait to hear about your fun get away to Glen Rose, TX! Happy and safe travels!

Gretta Hendricks is a multidisciplinary creative who has been a chocolatier, baker, birth-doula, performance artist, and freelance writer, although her favorite job to-date has been becoming a first-time mama to her beautiful rainbow baby, Ofelia, born in January of 2020. Gretta has enjoyed writing for as long as she can remember and is passionately interested in the ways she can both learn and share from the art of storytelling. Alongside her husband and daughter, she loves living in and exploring Fort Worth as well as pouring into her church and local community.