As fall sets in in North Texas, we find ourselves searching for fun things to do. If you’re looking for a unique adventure, consider visiting the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, Texas, which offers an experience unlike any other in the state. Just a short drive from our boutique hotel in Granbury, this sprawling wildlife preserve gives guests the chance to see giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and more than 1,000 animals roaming across open habitats. It is a true safari in Texas, and whether you drive your own vehicle or take a guided tour, the excitement of encountering exotic wildlife up close makes for a date you will never forget.
Even though Fossil Rim is one of the most fascinating things to do near Grabury, TX, it’s just the start of a fun adventure for couples. While visiting the area, there are plenty of other activities to round out your getaway. In Glen Rose, Texas, couples can hike the trails at Dinosaur Valley State Park, kayak the Paluxy River, or stroll through the historic town square. Back in Granbury, you can enjoy boutique shopping, wine tasting, and live entertainment at Granbury Live. Between outdoor excursions, charming downtowns, and local restaurants with inviting patios, this corner of the state is filled with some of the best things to do in Texas for couples.
After days spent exploring wildlife and local attractions, retreating to the Inn on Lake Granbury brings the balance and elegance to your getaway that you deserve. Recognized as one of the best couples getaways in Texas, our Granbury Hotel combines lakefront beauty with refined comfort. With elevated accommodations, thoughtful hospitality, and a setting that is as welcoming as it is romantic, the Inn is the ideal home base for exploring everything this region has to offer. Book your Texas getaway today!
What to See at the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
The Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, Texas, is one of the most unique and memorable experiences you can have in North Texas. Unlike a traditional zoo, this 1,800-acre wildlife preserve allows more than 1,100 animals from around the world to roam freely across open habitats. Adventurous couples visiting the park get the thrill of driving through a Texas wildlife park where giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, wildebeests, rhinos, and other species live much as they would in the wild. This immersive setting creates the feeling of being on a safari, without the hassle of traveling extreme distances.
The most popular way to experience the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is through the self-drive safari, which follows a scenic nine-and-a-half-mile route through various habitats and allows you to feed animals directly from your car. The self-guided experience takes at least 1.5 hours, and it’s recommended that you buy tickets online in advance. For a more in-depth adventure, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center offers guided safari tours led by experts. Along the way, they’ll share fascinating insights about the animals and conservation efforts. These tours include much of the same as the self-guided experience, but with an extended stop at The Overlook, where you can enjoy hiking trails and more.
Specialized tours, such as behind-the-scenes experiences, night safaris, and private group tours, provide visitors with even closer encounters. Whether you are hoping to hand-feed a giraffe or learn more about endangered species programs, the park’s tours deliver a mix of education and excitement. Tickets to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center can be purchased online in advance, which is strongly recommended since entry times often sell out, especially on weekends and holidays. Pricing varies depending on whether you choose the self-drive safari or a guided tour, but both options are well worth the cost for the once-in-a-lifetime experience they provide.
There is also a café and gift shop on-site, making it easy to grab a snack or pick up a keepsake after your adventure. Including Fossil Rim in a longer couples getaway, this North Texas safari park offers an extraordinary way to connect with nature and each other.
More Things to Do in Glen Rose, Texas
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is located in the town of Glen Rose, which is about 30 minutes from our Boutique Hotel in Granbury. The town of Glen Rose, Texas, is more than just the gateway to Fossil Rim, though. It is a charming destination in its own right, and we hope you take some time after your safari ride to explore more.
Known as the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas,” Glen Rose offers a mix of history, small-town charm, and outdoor adventure. After a morning safari, you can stroll the historic downtown square filled with boutiques, antique shops, and local restaurants. Whether you are sipping wine at a nearby vineyard, kayaking the Paluxy River, or simply enjoying the friendly atmosphere, you’ll be so glad you spent some time enjoying the many things to do in Glen Rose, TX.
Best Things to Do in Glen Rose, TX This Fall
- After Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, nature-loving couples may want to hit the trails at Dinosaur Valley State Park. Here, you’ll walk along trails where actual dinosaur tracks are preserved in the riverbed, a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Don’t miss the Historic Downtown Square. It’s one of the best things to do in Glen Rose, TX. Browse antique shops, boutique stores, and local cafés in a charming setting that feels like stepping back in time.
- Add to your visit a stop at the Creation Evidence Museum, where you can explore exhibits that showcase fossils and artifacts, offering a unique perspective on the area’s prehistoric past.
- One of the best things to do in Glen Rose, TX, is to get out on the Paluxy River. Talk about a scenic adventure in the heart of North Texas! Rent a kayak or simply relax along the banks, where picturesque views and gentle waters make for a peaceful afternoon outdoors. Big Rocks Park is a great spot to enjoy some quiet time on the river.
- Depending on the season, catch outdoor concerts, farmers’ markets, and fall festivals that bring the community together in a lively atmosphere.
- If you’re looking to relax after your visit to Fossil Rim, consider stopping at one of the North Texas Wineries in Glen Rose, like Bull Lion Ranch and Vineyard.
After a day filled with safaris, dinosaur tracks, and small-town exploring, the best way to wind down is at the Inn on Lake Granbury, the most inviting Boutique Hotel near Glen Rose. This elegant, adults-only property blends comfort with romance, offering luxurious rooms, gourmet breakfasts, and lakeside views that create the perfect ending to an adventurous day. It is the ideal retreat for couples who want to balance outdoor exploration with elevated hospitality, making it one of the top romantic getaways in Texas. Book your stay today!