Located in the heart of Dallas’ Victory Park district, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is an architectural and educational marvel that brings science to life across five dynamic floors. This 180,000-square-foot facility is one of the most engaging museums in Texas, combining cutting-edge exhibits, hands-on labs, and immersive multimedia to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. Designed to be both futuristic and family-friendly, it’s the kind of place where you can dig for fossils, race a virtual T. rex, or watch a tornado form—all before lunch.
Whether you’re a parent looking to entertain curious kids, a science enthusiast hungry for discovery, or a traveler seeking an indoor attraction on your Dallas road trip, the Perot Museum delivers. With world-class displays on dinosaurs, space, weather, human anatomy, and more, this destination invites visitors to learn by doing—touching, building, running, and experimenting. A visit to the Perot Museum is not just educational—it’s electrifying.
Why Visit Perot Museum of Nature and Science?
The Perot Museum is more than just a museum—it’s an interactive wonderland designed to inspire future scientists, engineers, and creative thinkers. Since opening in 2012, the museum has become one of the most visited cultural attractions in Texas, thanks to its innovative exhibits and stunning design by renowned architect Thom Mayne. Its cube-shaped, eco-conscious structure is just as intriguing as what lies inside.
The museum is divided into 11 permanent exhibit halls, each designed to encourage hands-on exploration. From touching meteorites in the Lyda Hill Gems and Minerals Hall to building robots in the Texas Instruments Engineering Hall, there’s something here for every curious mind. The T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall is home to full-sized dinosaur skeletons, including a roaring Tyrannosaurus rex and a towering Alamosaurus.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum offers 4D films, a children’s discovery center for toddlers, and a rooftop with views of the Dallas skyline. Live science demos, visiting exhibits, and special events ensure every visit feels fresh. Whether you’re spending an hour or an entire afternoon, you’ll leave smarter, more inspired, and probably planning your next return.
Top Things to Do at Perot Museum of Nature and Science
1. Marvel at the Dinosaurs in the Life Then and Now Hall
Why Visit: This is one of the museum’s most iconic spaces, home to a full skeletal cast of an Alamosaurus, a fierce Tyrannosaurus rex, and dozens of other prehistoric creatures. The exhibit not only showcases fossils but explains extinction, adaptation, and Earth’s prehistoric climates.
Entry Fee: Included with general admission
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Create and Compete in the Engineering and Innovation Hall
Why Visit: Sponsored by Texas Instruments, this hall encourages visitors to think like engineers. Kids and adults can design, build, and test their own creations—from wind turbines to robotic arms—and even compete in interactive games like coding and speed building.
Entry Fee: Included with admission
Best Time: Mornings and weekdays for fewer crowds
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Explore the Expanding Universe in the Space Hall
Why Visit: Step into the vastness of the cosmos in this captivating exhibit that explores black holes, the solar system, and the science of space travel. A highlight is the immersive 3D animation of the universe, plus interactive displays that allow visitors to land a spacecraft or simulate gravitational forces.
Entry Fee: Included with general admission
Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily
For More Info: Visit Website
4. Get Active in the Sports Hall – Race a T. Rex
Why Visit: This hall blends science and physical activity to explore human performance, biomechanics, and physiology. The star attraction is the famous “Race a T. Rex” exhibit, where visitors sprint against video simulations of a dinosaur, cheetah, or NFL running back. You’ll also test your vertical leap, balance, and reflexes.
Entry Fee: Included with admission
Best Time: Midday (after school groups have cleared)
For More Info: Visit Website
5. Ignite Curiosity at the Moody Family Children’s Museum
Why Visit: Perfect for families with toddlers and young children, this hands-on museum within a museum features a mini Dallas skyline, water play tables, sandbox fossil digs, and soft climbing structures. It’s designed for kids under 5 to explore at their pace.
Entry Fee: Included with general admission
Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (quietest in early morning)
For More Info: Visit Website
Best Time to Visit
The Perot Museum is a year-round attraction, but some times offer a more relaxed and immersive experience than others.
Spring (March–May): Ideal for a visit, especially mid-week when school groups are fewer. Mild weather makes downtown exploration and rooftop views enjoyable.
Summer (June–August): A popular time for family vacations and local day trips. Crowds peak mid-morning to early afternoon—arrive at opening (10 a.m.) to enjoy exhibits before it fills up.
Fall (September–November): Fewer crowds and special events like STEM festivals make fall a great time for both first-timers and repeat visitors.
Winter (December–February): Indoor comfort makes it a perfect cold-weather stop. Holiday periods may bring more traffic, so weekdays in early January or February are calmest.
Pro Tip: Avoid weekends and school holidays if possible. Tuesday and Wednesday mornings tend to be the quietest.
Directions and Parking Info
Address:
2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201
Getting There by Car
From Downtown Dallas: 5 minutes via Woodall Rodgers Freeway
From Fort Worth: Approx. 45 minutes via I-30 E
From DFW Airport: Approx. 30 minutes via TX-114 E and I-35E S
From Austin: Approx. 3 hours via I-35 N
Parking
Museum Parking Lot: Located under the Woodall Rodgers Freeway next to the museum; $10 flat rate per car
Overflow Parking: Nearby garages and surface lots in Victory Park
Public Transit: Accessible via DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit); Museum is a short walk from Victory Station
Accessibility: ADA parking and entrances are available; elevators serve all floors.
Entry Fees, Passes & Reservations
General Admission
Adults (13–64): $25
Youth (2–12): $15
Seniors (65+): $18
Children under 2: Free
Membership Options
Annual memberships start at $95 for individuals and $130 for families—includes free general admission, early access to exhibits, and discounts at the gift shop and café.
Special Exhibits and Films
Some visiting exhibits and 3D films may require additional tickets. These can be purchased online or at the front desk.
Reservations
Advance online booking is strongly recommended, especially during holidays and school breaks.
Hours: Open daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas)
For Tickets and Reservations: Visit Website
Where to Stay Nearby
1. Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas Downtown – Budget-Friendly and Central
Located just 5 minutes from the museum, this downtown hotel offers affordability without sacrificing comfort. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast, modern rooms, and easy access to DART transit lines and restaurants. It’s a great option for families and road trippers looking for convenience.
Address: 1700 Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: (214) 290-9090
Price Range: $110–$150
Rating: 4.2 stars
Parking: Paid garage parking nearby
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Hotel Indigo Dallas Downtown – Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort
Housed in a restored 1920s building, this boutique hotel blends character with comfort. It’s about a 7-minute drive from the museum and offers pet-friendly rooms, a vibrant lounge, and themed suites. Ideal for couples or travelers looking for a local touch.
Address: 1933 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: (214) 741-7700
Price Range: $140–$180
Rating: 4.4 stars
Parking: Valet parking available
For More Info: Visit Website
3. The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas – Luxury in the Heart of Uptown
Located just 5 minutes from the museum in nearby Uptown, The Ritz-Carlton offers 5-star service, a full spa, and fine dining. Rooms are spacious, elegantly furnished, and perfect for travelers seeking upscale accommodations after a day of exploration.
Address: 2121 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
Phone: (214) 922-0200
Price Range: $400–$600
Rating: 4.8 stars
Parking: Valet only
For More Info: Visit Website
Food & Drinks Nearby
1. Savor Gastropub – Elevated American Fare Across the Street
Located in Klyde Warren Park, just across the street from the museum, Savor offers stylish American cuisine with indoor/outdoor seating. Menu highlights include brisket sliders, seafood tacos, and a wide selection of local craft beers.
Address: 2000 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201
Hours: Tues–Sun, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Price: $15–$30 per person
Distance: 3-minute walk
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Café Momentum – Nonprofit with a Mission and Great Food
This upscale restaurant is staffed by young adults from the juvenile justice system and has received national acclaim. Dishes rotate seasonally but often feature locally sourced meats, pastas, and Southern-inspired creations.
Address: 1510 Pacific Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
Hours: Thurs–Sat, 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Price: $25–$45 per person
Distance: 7-minute drive
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Emporium Pies – Sweet Stop for Dessert Lovers
For a sweet finish, visit this cozy pie shop in Deep Ellum. They serve handcrafted slices like “Smooth Operator” (chocolate silk) and “Drunken Nut” (bourbon pecan). It’s a quick drive from the museum and well worth the detour.
Address: 2708 Main St, Dallas, TX 75226
Hours: Daily, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Price: $6–$8 per slice
Distance: 10-minute drive
For More Info: Visit Website
Local Tips for Visiting
Arrive at opening (10 a.m.) for best access to exhibits before school groups or weekend crowds.
Buy tickets online in advance to avoid lines and secure preferred time slots.
Start at the top floor and work your way down—it’s the most efficient way to explore.
The museum is stroller-friendly and has elevators on every floor.
Pack a light jacket—some exhibit areas are cool, especially theaters.
Allow 2–4 hours minimum to explore the full museum at a relaxed pace.
The museum café is convenient, but Klyde Warren Park food trucks offer great local flavor nearby.
Ask for the scavenger hunt sheets at the front desk—perfect for kids and teens.
Gift shop sells unique STEM toys, books, and local souvenirs.
What Else Is Nearby?
Klyde Warren Park
A vibrant urban park built over a freeway with food trucks, games, music, and green space. Great for relaxing before or after your museum visit.
Distance: 2-minute walk
Why Visit: Urban green space with activities and dining for all ages.
Dallas Museum of Art
Free general admission to this expansive museum featuring works from antiquity to modern masters. Offers kids’ programs and rotating exhibits.
Distance: 5-minute walk
Why Visit: A top-tier art museum perfect for an afternoon of culture.
Reunion Tower GeO-Deck
See Dallas from 470 feet up on this iconic observation deck with interactive skyline tours and photo ops.
Distance: 7-minute drive
Why Visit: Best panoramic views of Dallas; ideal for photographers and first-time visitors.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Perot Museum of Nature and Science
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is one of Texas’ greatest educational treasures. It’s a place where science comes to life—from towering dinosaurs to tiny atoms, from outer space to engineering labs. More than just a museum, it’s a launchpad for lifelong learning. Whether you’re climbing into a weather simulator, watching your kids build a robot, or racing a T. rex, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the natural world—and the innovative minds that study it.
For road trippers, families, and anyone exploring Dallas, the Perot Museum is an unmissable stop. It blends intellectual depth with playful discovery in a way few museums can. With its dazzling architecture, hands-on exhibits, and proximity to other downtown landmarks, it’s not just a science museum—it’s the future of what museums should be.
