Have you ever seen a dandelion transform into a futuristic spaceship? That’s Reunion Tower. Reunion Tower stands tall at 561 feet, an observation tower that has graced the Dallas skyline since 1978. It’s affectionately known as “The Ball,” a nickname earned from its distinctive geodesic dome. Reunion Tower isn’t just a pretty face. It’s a symbol of Dallas, appearing in countless films and TV shows, including the opening credits of the iconic series *Dallas*.
Reunion Tower’s story began as part of a larger urban redevelopment project. This project also included the Hyatt Regency Dallas and the renovation of Union Station. The tower’s name is a tribute to La Réunion, a 19th-century French utopian community. John Scovell, fascinated by this historical settlement, chose the name, connecting the modern structure to Dallas’s unique past. The tower is a marvel of engineering. Its construction involved pouring concrete into a slip-form that inched upward at a snail’s pace of one foot per hour. The precision required ensured that Dallas wouldn’t have its own leaning tower. Deep beneath the surface, 64 massive “legs” support the tower’s foundation, a concrete “tabletop” 10 feet deep and 90 feet across.
Reunion Tower has undergone significant transformations over the years. After a major renovation, the observation deck reopened in 2013 as the GeO-Deck. Here, interactive touchscreens called “The Halo” offer visitors an immersive digital experience. They can explore Dallas landmarks, learn about the tower’s history, and even relive the events of November 22, 1963. For those seeking a unique dining experience, Reunion Tower offers Five Sixty, a revolving restaurant created by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck. Located on the top floor, Five Sixty provided breathtaking 360-degree views of the city alongside its contemporary Asian cuisine. Sadly, Five Sixty closed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the tower continues to shine.
Speaking of shining, Reunion Tower’s nighttime display is a spectacle. 259 custom LED fixtures illuminate The Ball, creating dazzling light shows. These lights aren’t just for show. They’re often used to celebrate holidays and special events, painting the Dallas skyline in vibrant colors. Reunion Tower has become an integral part of Dallas’s identity, a testament to the city’s vibrant spirit and forward-thinking vision. It’s more than just a tower. It’s a beacon, a landmark, and a symbol of Dallas reaching for the stars. So, the next time you see Reunion Tower shimmering against the Texas sky, remember its story, its history, and the dreams that built it.