Opened to the public in 1984, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center features self-guided driving tours following a nine-mile forested path through the Texas hillside. From the safety and comfort of your own car, van, or truck, you can hand-feed a variety of on-site animal species. This enjoyable and rare experience can, in effect, take you away from it all while your feet are still firmly planted on Texas soil. To add to that experience, the Overlook Cafe is a two-story restaurant which looks out from the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center trees, giving diners an aerial view of the African-Savannah-like property and all that it entails!
Recognized as one of the world’s leading animal conservation sites, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is located in Glen Rose, Texas. For more than three decades, it’s given visitors the chance to experience a taste of Africa in a Texas-sized sampling. With 1,700 acres and over 1,000 animals, the center cares for close to 50 different animal species that guests can see via a drive-thru tour. In addition, there are open-air guided tour offerings, as well as overnight accommodations in a variety of styles!
Photo: Facebook/Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
Having the opportunity to enjoy the animals, alone, would normally be enough, but seeing them from the comfort of your own vehicle makes it that much better. Supplementing the experience with a behind-the-scenes tour is an excellent way to enhance the fun and learn more in the process. After you’re done with tours, talks, and animal feedings, you can satisfy your hearty appetite at the Overlook. It features a variety of sandwiches, wraps, salads, and snacks (not to mention great kids meal offerings) as well as a wide selection of fountain drinks, juice, water, and ice cream!
Photo: Facebook/Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
In the process of providing a unique safari-like experience, right down to eating among the treetops looking out over a vast expanse, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center’s objective is to preserve endangered species. The facility is accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association, making it the first facility of its kind to achieve that status. Taking your family to enjoy everything the center has to offer is an excellent way to spend a late spring or summer day in Texas. You can cap it off with a stop at the Overlook Cafe for your choice of indoor and outdoor seating, unparalleled views, and a satisfying meal for your entire crew.
