ICR Discovery Center

The ICR Discovery Center for Science & Earth History is a lesser-known but genuinely impressive museum tucked in northwest Dallas. Operated by the Institute for Creation Research, it presents science — from paleontology to astronomy to biology — through a creationist framework. That's worth knowing going in: exhibits tell a young-earth creation narrative, so this is a natural fit for families who share that worldview, or for those open to exploring a different scientific perspective with their kids.

What makes it worth visiting regardless of your beliefs: the production quality is excellent. The full-size dinosaur models are striking, the fossil displays are well-curated, and the planetarium dome show is genuinely spectacular for kids who've never experienced one. The astronomy hall covering the scale and structure of the universe is one of the better visual exhibits I've seen in a Dallas-area museum.

The space is quiet compared to larger museums — there are no long lines, no fighting for spots at exhibits, and staff are available and eager to engage with kids' questions. For homeschool families or those who want a less chaotic museum day, this is a real plus.

Admission is free, which makes it an easy yes even for a short visit. There's no food on-site, so pack snacks or plan lunch afterward at one of the many restaurants along the LBJ Freeway corridor nearby.

Kids 6 and up get the most out of it — the exhibits assume some baseline reading ability and curiosity about science. Younger kids will enjoy the dinosaur models but may not engage deeply with the content stations.

It's not on most Dallas family radar, which means you're likely to have it nearly to yourself — a refreshing change from the weekend crowds at the Perot Museum.