Glen Rose, a town of roughly 2,700 residents in Somervell County, is punching above its weight in tourism, according to the latest episode of The Building Texas Show. Hosted by Justin McKenzie, the episode titled “Glen Rose's Strangest Attraction Isn't What You'd Expect” features Traci Niedziela, Tourism Director for Glen Rose. Niedziela explains that 28% of Texans live within a 90-minute drive, yet most have never stopped beyond the state park exit. The episode reframes Glen Rose as a full weekend destination, not a quick day trip.
Niedziela walks listeners through attractions that pack the small county seat. Highlights 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 installed at the visitor center. The Texas Amphitheater is currently staging The Little Mermaid over an actual water moat. Two rivers, Big Rocks Park, and Paluxy River cabin stays such as Anderson Creek Cabins offer additional activities.
A citywide scavenger hunt features 98 uniquely painted dinosaurs tied to local businesses. As 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 digs 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. Niedziela notes that Bowles 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. This episode is available now wherever podcasts are heard.
