If you’re itching for an unforgettable escape from the Dallas hustle, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, Texas, is the ultimate day trip destination. Located at 2299 County Road 2008, Glen Rose, TX 76043, this incredible wildlife preserve is just a 90-minute drive from Dallas, and trust me, it’s worth every mile. This isn’t your average zoo experience—it’s a 1,800-acre safari where you can get up close and personal with some of the world’s most amazing animals in their natural habitat. Whether you’re rolling through the scenic drive, snapping photos of a giraffe sticking its head through your car window, or learning about conservation efforts, Fossil Rim delivers nonstop fun and adventure.

The main attraction here is the 7.2-mile scenic drive, which lets you explore the preserve from the comfort of your car. You’ll be cruising past herds of antelope, zebras, ostriches, and even rhinos roaming freely across the rolling hills and open savannahs. The giraffes are total stars of the show—they’re friendly, curious, and always ready for a close-up. Pro tip: grab a bag of feed from the visitor center before starting your journey because nothing beats the thrill of having a majestic creature eat right out of your hand. The entire drive takes about two to three hours, so be sure to bring your camera, a sense of wonder, and maybe a playlist to set the mood.

Fossil Rim is more than just a wildlife drive—it’s also a hub for conservation and education. The center is dedicated to preserving endangered species, and their work with cheetahs, addax, and other at-risk animals is nothing short of inspiring. If you’re curious to learn more, hop on one of their guided tours or check out the Overlook Café and Children’s Animal Center, where you can get hands-on with some smaller critters. For the ultimate wildlife adventure, consider booking a behind-the-scenes tour to see how the team cares for these incredible animals.

When you’re ready to stretch your legs, Fossil Rim has plenty of options for taking in the scenery. The Overlook area offers stunning views of the preserve, and you can grab a bite at the café while soaking in the panoramic vistas. Don’t forget to stop by the Nature Store for souvenirs—you’ll want to remember this trip long after you’ve left.

While Fossil Rim is a destination in itself, the surrounding town of Glen Rose is worth exploring too. Known as the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas,” this charming small town is home to Dinosaur Valley State Park, where you can walk in the literal footsteps of prehistoric giants. Glen Rose also boasts some fantastic dining options like Loco Coyote Grill, where the BBQ is as big and bold as Texas itself.

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is the kind of place that reminds you of the magic and beauty of the natural world. It’s fun, it’s educational, and it’s the perfect way to spend a day reconnecting with nature and making memories with family or friends. Whether you’re feeding a giraffe, marveling at a rhino, or simply soaking in the stunning Texas landscape, this is a day trip you’ll be talking about for years to come.

Ready to hit the road and explore the wild side of Texas? Book a car with Alta Car Rental to make your journey seamless and stress-free. Whether you’re looking for a spacious SUV for the family or a sleek ride for a solo escape, we’ve got you covered. Reserve your car today by clicking here or give us a call at +1 469-833-2229. Let us handle the driving while you focus on the adventure waiting at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center!