Reunion Tower, Dallas (must see)

Reunion Tower has been part of the Dallas skyline since 1978, rising 561 feet beside the Hyatt Regency Dallas. Designed by the architectural firm Welton Becket & Associates, it was completed as part of the larger Reunion development, which also included the Hyatt Regency Dallas and improvements around nearby Union Station. Its round, open-frame top quickly earned it the local nickname “The Ball,” and its 259 exterior LED lights make it especially recognizable after dark. Those lights are individually programmable, allowing the tower to display special colors and animations for holidays.

The main visitor attraction is the GeO-Deck, an indoor-outdoor observation level set 470 feet above the city. From here, visitors get 360-degree views across downtown Dallas, the Trinity River area, Dealey Plaza, the Arts District, and the wider North Texas landscape. The elevator ride adds to the experience, with glass-fronted views on the way up, while the deck itself includes interactive touchscreens and viewing tools that help identify landmarks across the city.

Reunion Tower is also known for dining with a view. At the top of the tower stands Crown Block, an upscale steak and seafood restaurant with skyline views. Unlike some earlier restaurants associated with the tower, Crown Block’s main dining room does not rotate, so visitors should come for the fixed high-level views rather than expecting a revolving restaurant experience. Its menu focuses on steak, seafood, sushi, and dishes using regional ingredients, with the skyline serving as the main backdrop.