The Eric Smith family of Kokomo, Ind., investigates a broze replica of a dinosaur bone from the Mesalands Dinosaur Musuem

Karen Miller, who was traveling from Atlanta to Arizona, took time out at the new visitor center to stretch her legs on her travels.

State officials from the state's departments of Tourism and Transportation offiically opened the cetner by cutting the ceremonial ribbon

Travelers who ventured into the new Glenrio Visitor Center at the Texas state line gave the new facility a thumbs up.

While state officials were inside at a grand opening ceremony on Wednesday, visitors such as Eric Smith and his family from Kokomo, Ind., were testing out the facility.

“It’s a nice facility. It’s open and airy. And it’s got plenty of restrooms,” Smith said.

On her way from Atlanta, Ga., to Arizona, Karen Miller was hauling a horse trailer and was accompanied by her two dogs. The center’s walking path was perfect for the canines and for Miller to stretch her legs.

“I’ve been driving all day. It’s one of the nicer ones I’ve been to on my trip,” Miller said.

The facility replaced a 40-year-old building. The center is expected to be a welcome respite to travelers and to increase tourism in the state, said state Tourism Secretary Michael Cerletti.

It can accommodate one million visitors a year.

Some of its special green features include recycling of gray water for grounds irrigation and a wind turbine that will generate 20 percent of the center’s energy.

Creature comforts include a pet walk and a livestock corral.

Visitors will have wireless internet, a movie theater and information kiosks.