Learn about the solar system, build your own robot or go head-to-head in a race with NFL running back, Jamaal Charles.
Posted on Jun 17, 2017
Known for its stunning features and eco-friendly designs by world-renowned architect, Thom Mayne, the Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a jewel in the heart of Downtown Dallas. Once you're inside, you'll discover five floors that are packed with hands-on-activities, interactive kiosks, eleven permanent exhibits and a state-of-the-art 3D theater.
We won't keep you waiting any longer. Let's dig in to some of the must-see spots inside the Perot!
1. Dive into one of the eleven permanent exhibits
A visit to the T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall is an absolute must if you're looking for that jaw-dropping moment when you can't mutter anything else to say but WOW!
You'll meet gigantic dinosaurs like the incredible Alamosaurus that proudly looks down upon the exhibit. Explore predator & prey adaptations of then and now or examine fossil replicas as you aim to solve mysteries that date back to the Jurassic.
2. Race an NFL running back
Do you have a need for speed? Look no further than the Lamar Hunt Family Sports Hall on the bottom floor of the Perot. This 55-foot interactive exhibit is the perfect place to burn off some energy. One of the coolest activities is being able to race NFL running back, Jamaal Charles. Feeling extra speedy? Mix it up by challenging a Tyrannosaurus Rex or even a cheetah!
3. Put on a lab coat in the Bio Lab
If you've ever wondered what it really means to be human, the Being Human Hall is the place to geek out. Launch a ping-pong ball with your mind, see what your body looks like using a thermal camera or explore the surprising similarities between humans and other species here on Earth.
Pro tip: Sign up for the hands-on lab analysis and experiment at one of the four stations in the Bio Lab. All participants will be provided with a lab coat, gloves and goggles in this area. Just remember that all children must be accompanied by an adult. It's here that you'll be able to examine cheek cells, see which household chemicals kill microbes or learn about DNA extraction.
4. Visit the Moody Family Children's Museum
We didn't forget about all the little tykes out there! Visit Children's Museum on the bottom floor of the Perot where you'll find the perfect place to play for kids 5 and under. This unique space was created for babies, toddlers and preschoolers in mind. Little ones can hunt for dinosaurs in a special outdoor dig area, try on costumes of their favorite animals or go exploring in a child-size version of the Dallas skyline. And for the budding Picasso in the family, be sure and take part in the special drop-in art programs.
5. Catch a thrilling movie or reserve your spot for an overnight sleepover
All it takes is one visit to the museum and you'll be hooked. That's why the folks at the Perot always keep things interesting with year-round activities and events. Catch a thrilling movie inside the cutting-edge Hogland Foundation Theater that will transport you to the middle of the rain forest and to times before human life existed featuring a stunning 4k projection.
Schedule a special sleepover, where kids between the ages of 6 – 14 can enjoy after hours access to their favorite exhibitions, hands-on activities, a 3-D movie and meals along the way.
Or keep an eye out for the museums special exhibitions that rotate year after year.
Now onto the boring…*ahem*…important stuff
Science never sleeps so it's good to know that the Perot Museum is regularly open seven days a week. Just make sure to peek at their calendar as the hours are subject to change due to school tours and holidays throughout the year.
Admission is even easier if you purchase a CityPASS. This unique pass will get you into the Perot Museum and other top attractions in Dallas for one low price. Otherwise, admission into the museum starts at $11 for kids ages 2 – 11.
Pro tip: skip the ticket counter and reserve your tickets online! Not only will you save time but you'll save some mullah as well. That will come in handy if you want to catch a show or enjoy fresh meals, drinks and snacks at the special Café.
The next time your budding microbiologist or future astrophysicist is ready to explore the world, look no further than the world-class Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas, Texas.
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