Glen Rose is a Texas town known for its dinosaur attractions
Glen Rose is a north-central Texas town with a significant prehistoric footprint. Several of them, in fact. The dinosaurs that long ago roamed the area left behind footprints that fossilized – giant reminders of the past that have solidified the town’s present-day appeal. This community of about 3,000 is known as the Dinosaur Capital of Texas, a designation made official by the state legislature in 1997. With several dinosaur-themed attractions as its foundation, Glen Rose is a town with a firm foothold on its future.
Tourism, nuclear power and Amazon highlight employment opportunities
The local economy relies on dinosaur-related tourism, but the area’s employment options continue to grow, and the housing market should benefit. “We’re expecting a lot of expansion because there’s a nuclear power plant in Somervell County, and the city just signed a contract for a big data center,” says Ymke Condy of Keller Williams Brazos West, a top-selling agent for Glen Rose. “Also, there’s an Amazon facility coming to Cleburne, which is only about 25 minutes away, and the thinking is that we may pull in people who would prefer to live in Glen Rose and work in Cleburne. All of that is going to affect the housing situation.” The data center is planned for a 190-acre site near the Comanche Peak Power Plant about 8 miles outside of town. The Amazon fulfillment center is expected to open in 2026.
Midcentury and contemporary homes stand out among housing options
The city’s established residential areas are characterized by a diverse mix of homes along quiet, tree-filled streets. Outside of these areas, sizes and prices tend to increase. Ranch-style homes featuring spacious lots and contemporary homes in subdivisions stand out. Several homes have been built in recent years, and new construction continues. Prices range from around $250,000 to about $540,000, although homes offering additional acreage outside the city limits can list for more. “Glen Rose can be expensive, because the land is not cheap,” Condy says.
Giant footprints, riverfront recreation at Dinosaur Valley State Park
Dinosaur Valley State Park is the community’s featured destination. Well-preserved theropod and sauropod footprints in the bed of the Paluxy River are the main attractions. “Texas was under water millions of years ago, so there are a lot of fossils and fossil-hunting in the area,” says Condy, who adds that it was memorable “to see how big a dinosaur foot was.” Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of hiking and biking trails, and the river provides opportunities for swimming, fishing and paddling. “It’s very, very pretty,” Condy says. “You have to book camping spots well in advance because that is very popular. It’s a family-friendly destination.” Near the park is another popular spot with a definite prehistoric vibe. Dinosaur World is an outdoor museum that features life-sized dinosaur replicas and interactive fun for all ages. In the heart of town, Big Rocks Park provides a chance to wade in the river and cool off from the Texas heat. Squaw Valley Golf Course is just minutes away. It is one of the major amenities that attract retirees to the area, Condy says.
Glen Rose Independent School District is rated A-minus by Niche
The Glen Rose Independent School District is rated A-minus by Niche. Glen Rose Elementary and Glen Rose High are rated B-plus. Glen Rose Intermediate and Glen Rose Junior High are rated A and A-minus, respectively. “A lot of pilots who fly out of DFW live in the community because the school system is so highly valued,” Condy adds. The Glen Rose ISD accepts transfers into their district through designated open-enrollment periods. Texas law lets students seek transfers, but districts may refuse even if space is available.
The community offers local shopping and dining destinations
Residents can stock up on essentials and other items at David’s, a full-service grocery store, and The Farmacy on the River, a quaint country market. A handful of boutique shops and dining destinations are concentrated downtown around Barnard Street, also known as State Highway 144. Several more dining options can be found along the nearby U.S. Route 67 corridor. The historic county courthouse anchors the downtown square, which is a popular staging area for community events. The nearby Palace Theatre, which was recently renovated, also hosts events.
Glen Rose Medical Center is easily accessible
Residents don’t have to travel far for healthcare, as Glen Rose Medical Center is conveniently located just off U.S. 67. “It’s very comfortable, small-town living,” says Condy, who adds that Glen Rose offers a “caring community with excellent medical facilities.” This car-dependent destination is about 55 miles from Fort Worth and 75 miles from Dallas and DFW International Airport.
![Matt Pallister]()
Written By
Matt Pallister
