Glen Rose, Texas: Promoting Small Business and Holiday Tourism ‘On the Doorstep of Nature’

The Building Texas Show’s Visiting Texas! Series. The series shines a spotlight on Glen Rose, Texas, a hidden gem nestled just an hour southwest of Fort Worth. In the latest episode, host Justin McKenzie sits down with Tex Toler, Tourism Director for the City of Glen Rose, to explore the community’s deep history, thriving culture, and plans for the Christmas season.

Why should someone visit Glen Rose, Texas?

Glen Rose, long known as the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas,” offers visitors a rare blend of small-town charm and natural wonder. With rolling limestone hills, clear rivers, and historic architecture surrounding a postcard-perfect courthouse square, the town embodies the warmth and beauty of rural Texas. “It’s a picturesque, Norman Rockwell-like town that feels a whole lot farther away than it is,” said Toler. “You don’t have to drive far to feel like you’ve truly escaped.”

What happened recently in Glen Rose, Texas?

This year, Glen Rose is celebrating a banner season following the success of the International Texas Longhorn Association’s 35th Annual Championship Show, which welcomed participants from 44 states and 15 countries. The event highlighted the town’s deep ties to Texas heritage — from its ranching roots to its role in preserving the legendary Longhorn breed.

Does Glen Rose, Texas have any strong Christmas spirit?

As the year draws to a close, Toler and his team are turning their attention to Christmas in Glen Rose, a cherished local tradition that transforms the historic square into a wonderland of light and community. The town’s famed life-size nativity scenes and over 150 decorated dinosaur sculptures line the streets, creating a whimsical and uniquely Texan holiday experience.

“Our tagline is ‘On the Doorstep of Nature,’ and that’s what Glen Rose offers,” said Toler. “Between the Paluxy and Brazos Rivers, the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, and Dinosaur Valley State Park, we’re surrounded by natural beauty that makes every visit unforgettable.”

For those looking to explore, shop, or simply slow down this season, Glen Rose offers the perfect getaway — rich in history, filled with Texas pride, and brimming with holiday cheer.

Watch the Full Episode

Experience the full conversation between Justin McKenzie and Tex Toler on The Building Texas Show — and see why Glen Rose is one of Texas’ most charming destinations.
Watch below, and don’t forget to like and subscribe to The Building Texas Show on YouTube for more stories from across the Lone Star State.

How will you decide to your next road trip? Consider visiting Glen Rose, Texas.

Support small businesses and experience the magic of the season in Glen Rose, Texas.
Plan your trip now at VisitGlenRoseTX.com and discover why this town truly sits “On the Doorstep of Nature.”

About The Building Texas Show

The Building Texas Show is hosted by Justin McKenzie and showcases the stories, people, and places shaping the future of Texas. Through in-depth interviews and travel features, the show captures the spirit of communities across the Lone Star State — from rural towns to modern industries — one conversation at a time.

Visit BuildingTexasShow.com to listen to the full Glen Rose episode on YouTube and explore Visiting Texas.