Reunion Tower | Dallas

Reunion Tower is one of the most recognizable structures in Dallas, Texas, and a key feature of the city’s skyline. Often referred to simply as “The Ball”, its geodesic dome at the top is both a visual icon and a functional space offering 360-degree views of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. Completed in 1978, it serves as an observation tower, event venue, and formerly housed a revolving restaurant.

Here is a detailed overview:

General Overview

Location: 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, TX 75207

Height: 561 feet (171 meters)

Opened: February 2, 1978

Architects: Welton Becket & Associates

Attached to: Hyatt Regency Dallas (adjacent hotel)

Reunion Tower is part of the Reunion District, a downtown area near the Trinity River and Union Station. The area is named after La Réunion, a short-lived utopian colony founded by European immigrants in the 1850s.

Architectural Features

Design: The tower's main shaft supports a large, sphere-shaped top made of aluminum struts forming a geodesic dome. The dome contains 260 nodes (intersections) illuminated by LED lights that make the sphere glow at night with changing colors and patterns.

Materials: The structure uses concrete for the central pillar and steel and aluminum for the dome. Its innovative use of a geodesic framework was highly advanced at the time.

Lighting System: The dome features 259 LED fixtures, added in 2011 to replace older lighting technology. These lights are programmed for various holidays, causes, sports wins, and city events. They are also used in coordination with pyrotechnics on special occasions, such as New Year’s Eve.

The GeO-Deck (Observation Deck)

Height: Located at 470 feet above the ground

Features:

Indoor and outdoor viewing platforms

360-degree views of downtown Dallas, the Trinity River, Fair Park, and on clear days, even Fort Worth

Telescopes and high-definition zoom cameras

Interactive touch-screen stations (called “Halo” displays) provide detailed information about landmarks visible from the tower

Digital photo opportunities with themed backdrops

Weather Adaptation: The GeO-Deck is enclosed and climate-controlled indoors, but also has an open-air terrace with safety railings and viewing equipment.

Crown Block (Dining and Events)

Former restaurant: For many years, the top of the tower was home to Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck, a rotating fine dining restaurant.

Current: As of 2023, it was replaced by Crown Block, a premium steak and seafood restaurant.

Rotating Floor: The restaurant floor makes a full 360-degree rotation approximately every hour, allowing diners to enjoy panoramic views during their meals.

Reservations: Highly recommended due to popularity, especially for sunset or nighttime dining.

Events and Experiences

Day/Night Ticket: Guests can purchase a pass that allows them to visit twice in 24 hours — once during the day and once at night — to experience the different views.

Special Events:

Holiday-themed experiences (e.g., Valentine’s Day, Halloween)

Fireworks shows on New Year’s Eve, coordinated with music and LED lights

Private rentals available for corporate events, proposals, and weddings

Photography: Professional souvenir photos are available and can be customized with digital backdrops.

Visitor Information

Hours:

Monday–Friday: 1:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Sunday: 1:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Hours may extend during holidays or special events

Admission (subject to change):

Adults (13–64): Around $20–$23

Youth (4–12): Around $10–$15

Seniors (65+): Slightly discounted

Children under 4: Free

VIP experiences and group rates available

Parking:

Self-parking is available at 601 Sports Street (near the Hyatt) – around $10

Valet parking available via Hyatt Regency Dallas

Accessibility:

Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators to all areas

ADA-compliant facilities and services

Service animals allowed

Additional Facts

Film and TV Appearances: Reunion Tower has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, especially during skyline shots of Dallas.

Earthquake Safety: The tower is built with flexibility to withstand minor seismic activity.

Green Initiatives: The LED light conversion in 2011 significantly reduced power consumption compared to previous lighting systems.

Nearby Attractions

Hyatt Regency Dallas (direct access)

Dealey Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum

Union Station

Dallas World Aquarium

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Klyde Warren Park

Reunion Tower is not only a visual symbol of Dallas but also a dynamic attraction that combines architecture, urban views, interactive technology, and fine dining. Whether you're a visitor or a local, it's a memorable way to see the city from above.