If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a cowboy wandered into Jurassic Park, Tomball has the answer. Once Upon a Cowboy has got to be one of the most unique family attractions in Texas, blending the thrills of a dinosaur theme park with the charm of the Old West.
Whether you’re raising little dino lovers or just looking for something wildly different to do, this place is packed with fun from the moment you walk in.
As Texas’ top award-winning travel blogger behind My Curly Adventures, I get excited for anything quirky across the state. Even though Once Upon a Cowboy is a family-friendly experience that is geared toward kids, I had to check it out for myself—you know, for research purposes (and maybe also to ride an animatronic dinosaur).
Plus, keep reading because we have all the details on how to save!
The Overall Experience
From the moment we walked in, Once Upon a Cowboy had us smiling ear to ear. I mean, where else do you go to find such a unique mixture? The entire place is set up like an old western town with buildings to wander in and around based off different themes but with a dino twist.
Of course there are dinosaurs everywhere, and many have different plaques, adding to an educational experience that’s also fun.
The park does an amazing job at combining hands-on fun with immersive storytelling with over 20 different attractions, and you can tell just how much heart went into each area. Whether it was hopping on a dinosaur scooter or digging for fossils, everything felt thoughtfully designed and packed with charm. It’s the kind of place where kids run wild with imagination, and even we adults couldn’t help but feel like kids again.
If you’re looking for an attraction that’s playful, engaging, and wonderfully over-the-top, this is one you won’t forget.
Top Attractions at Once Upon a Cowboy
There’s so much to do here that it’s almost impossible to fit it all in one visit. This is not just a walk-through exhibit. The park is filled with interactive zones and high-energy attractions like:
- Dino Scooters – Zoom around on electric scooters shaped like dinosaurs (my personal favorite)
- Fossil Digs & Mining – Get hands-on with buried “bones” and treasure hunting.
- Escape Rooms – Family-friendly puzzles that add a little mystery to your visit.
- Axe Throwing – Yes, even the grown-ups get in on the action (with kid-sized versions too).
- Train Rides – All aboard Big Red for a scenic ride through the dino wild west.
- Ballocity Indoor Playground – Perfect for younger kids who need to burn off some energy.
And that’s only scratching the surface. There are barbershop photo ops, VR experiences, outdoor play zones, and more than a dozen dino and western-themed areas to explore.
What Age Is Once Upon a Cowboy Best For?
Most of the attractions are best suited for kids between 2 and 12 years old, but there’s something for everyone. Toddlers can enjoy the sand play areas and indoor zones, while older kids will love the escape rooms, scooters, and VR rides. It’s a full-day adventure that keeps kids engaged at every turn. It’s one of the best family-friendly attractions in Tomball.
How Much Does Once Upon a Cowboy Cost?
Ticket prices vary by day and season, but here’s a general idea:
- Weekday Admission: $10 for adults, $15 for children
- Weekend Admission: $29.99 for ages 3+
- Extras: Some activities, like the VR ride or fossil mining, cost a few dollars more
Keep an eye out for Groupon deals, especially for weekend passes or family packs. Buying online ahead of time can also help you skip the line.
How to Save Money at Once Upon a Cowboy
- Visit on a weekday: Smaller crowds + lower ticket prices
- Check Groupon: They frequently run promotions
- Follow their socials: They sometimes announce flash sales or new attraction openings
Weekdays vs. Weekends: What’s the Difference?
If you’re looking for the full experience, weekends are when most attractions and food vendors are operating. Weekdays offer smaller crowds and a more relaxed pace. We had the place almost all to ourselves. However, not every activity was open. It really depends on what kind of experience you’re after.
You can certainly get enough done on a weekday, but some notable attractions, like the train, were not running.
What to Bring to Once Upon a Cowboy
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking quite a bit
- Water bottles: Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months
- Sunscreen: Many of the attractions are outside
- A backup outfit for younger kids: Sandboxes, water features, and dino digs can get messy fast
- Camera or phone: There are so many adorable photo ops throughout the park
- Light clothing: It gets hot—plan accordingly
- Protective eyewear: Glasses are provided when needed for certain attractions
The Story Behind Once Upon a Cowboy
Once Upon a Cowboy is the realization of a family’s imaginative vision. Founded by Sergio Caro, his wife, and their two daughters, the theme park emerged from the family’s quest to create a unique entertainment venue that captured their children’s love for both dinosaurs and cowboys. Each character and attraction within the park was designed by the Caro family.
The central character, Dinorah, is the local celebrity. She dons an 1800s antique dress and boots, drawing inspiration from Disney’s Belle.
Is Once Upon a Cowboy Indoors or Outdoors?
It’s a mix of both! There are large outdoor areas, including the train ride, sand play zones, and dinosaur trails. But you’ll also find indoor experiences like Ballocity, the VR zone, and escape rooms, which make this a good option even if the weather’s unpredictable.
Things for Adults to Do at Once Upon a Cowboy
While it’s definitely designed for families, adults aren’t left out. You can test your skills at axe throwing, explore the escape rooms, and geek out over the animatronic dinosaurs just like the kids. Plus, the attention to detail and creativity in each zone make it a genuinely fun place to explore.
I was lucky to be under the weight limit to enjoy riding the dinosaurs!
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Final Thoughts
Once Upon a Cowboy is one of the most unexpected and imaginative attractions in Tomball. It’s a hit with families, and even us grown-up dino fans will find something to love. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or looking for a new day adventure, this dino-western mashup definitely deserves a spot on your Tomball itinerary. It’s one of the best free things to do in Tomball TX if you’re lucky enough to catch a weekday special or watch the dino parade.
Want more Tomball adventures? Don’t miss my Family-Friendly Things to Do in Tomball, Unique Things to Do in Tomball, Free Things to Do in Tomball, or the upcoming Ultimate Guide to Tomball: 40+ Unique Experiences!
Last Updated 3 days ago by Jessica Serna | Published: April 17, 2025
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