Welcome to Reunion Tower, an iconic beacon on the Dallas skyline, affectionately known by locals as ‘The Ball.’ As you stand here, take a moment to appreciate the history and significance of this remarkable structure. Completed on February 2, 1978, Reunion Tower is part of a larger urban redevelopment project that aimed to breathe new life into downtown Dallas. Designed by the architectural firm Welton Becket & Associates, the tower was initially a free-standing structure before being integrated with the Hyatt Regency Dallas in 1998.
This area, known as the Reunion district, pays homage to the mid-nineteenth century commune La Réunion, a visionary settlement that brought together French, Belgian, and Swiss settlers hoping to create a utopian society. Though the commune ultimately dissolved, its legacy lives on in the spirit of innovation and community that defines Dallas today.
Reunion Tower is not just a marvel of architecture but also a canvas of light and color. Its 259 LED lights frequently illuminate the night sky, celebrating city events and holidays. Imagine standing here during a special event, watching as the sphere glows green for St. Patrick’s Day or transforms into a patriotic display of red, white, and blue. Originally, these lights were incandescent, consuming a hefty amount of electricity. Today, thanks to modern LED technology, the lights are not only more energy-efficient but also capable of creating stunning animations, making the globe a dynamic, ever-changing spectacle.
The tower’s observation deck, known as the GeO-Deck, offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Dallas metroplex. As you ascend in the glass-walled elevator, enjoy a brief but exhilarating 68-second ride to the top. Here, you’re standing over 500 feet above the city, where you can see not only the sprawling urban landscape but also landmarks like Dealey Plaza, just a stone’s throw away.
Over the years, Reunion Tower has hosted a number of notable establishments. From the revolving restaurant Antares to Wolfgang Puck’s Five Sixty, which graced the tower from 2009 to 2020, this space has always been at the intersection of fine dining and unforgettable views. Today, the Crown Block steak and seafood house continues this tradition, offering guests a culinary experience as unique as the view itself.
Reunion Tower’s proximity to the historic Union Station connects it to a broader narrative of Dallas’s growth and transformation. Union Station, once a bustling hub during the golden age of rail travel, has been beautifully preserved and now serves as a vital link for Amtrak and regional rail services.
As you explore this remarkable landmark, consider its role not just as a tourist attraction but as a symbol of Dallas’s ongoing journey. From its futuristic design and engineering to its cultural significance, Reunion Tower stands as a testament to the city’s ambition and creativity. Whether you’re marveling at its light shows or simply enjoying the view, this tower invites you to be part of its story—a story that continues to evolve with every passing day.
