Perot Museum announces $185 million expansion, plans outdoor science center in downtown Dallas

The $185 million project, funded through private donations, will introduce new interactive science experiences, outdoor exhibits, and green spaces while strengthening connections between the museum and surrounding downtown Dallas neighborhoods. The museum has already raised $135 million through its Curiosity Unbound fundraising campaign, leaving $50 million still needed to complete the project. The expansion is expected to open by the end of 2028. The new outdoor science center will feature a variety of interactive attractions, including a fire tornado that simulates wildfires, a thunder and lightning pavilion, and designated areas for science demonstrations. Visitors will also be able to explore water features, including a mist maze and a river, along with shaded outdoor spaces designed for learning and recreation. Another highlight will be a terrace featuring fossilized plants and animals. The centerpiece will be a representation of Tylosaurus rex, a newly discovered mosasaur species identified in North Texas earlier this year. The expansion will also include a public pollinator garden along River Street, creating a connection between the museum and Dallas growing financial and banking district, sometimes referred to as Y all Street. Beyond providing new educational experiences, the project is intended to better integrate the museum with surrounding developments, including Victory Park, Klyde Warren Park, the Dallas Arts District, and the broader downtown corridor. Museum leaders envision the expansion as an investment in both science education and the future of downtown Dallas, offering more opportunities for children and families to explore scientific concepts through hands-on experiences.