Birthday Venues in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

You must email education@heardmuseum.org to schedule an appointment to view Laughlin Hall.

Appointments are required so that we can make sure that the room will not be in use at the time of your visit and that we have a member of the education staff available to show you the room.

Please allow 24-48 hours for response (please note our offices are typically closed Saturday-Monday). If there are date conflicts or other questions we will contact you via e-mail. 

Dinosaur Party Packages are offered only while our Dinosaurs Live! exhibit is here (typically fall through early winter–See the Dinosaurs Live exhibit page for applicable dates). 

Birthday parties are held Laughlin Hall. For more information, see our Birthday Party Basics.

Birthday parties begin with 2 live animal presentations, which will last about 30 minutes total. The rest of the party time is yours to lead, enjoying your private rental space, the museum, and the Heard’s nature preserve and outdoor exhibits.

Simple decorations that do not require being attached to the walls or ceilings are permitted, such as table cloths and table-top decorations. No hanging or wall décor are allowed. No confetti or glitter is allowed. At the end of the party, you are responsible for removing all decorations. Any damage to walls, tables, chairs or displayed items in the room may be assessed a damage fee. Piñatas are not allowed.

If you bring food or drinks, there is plenty of counter space you can use for your items. Please bring your own flatware, plates, napkins, serving utensils, cups, matches for birthday candles, etc. There are no appliances, so we recommend selecting food that does not require heating and to bring a cooler to keep things cold if needed. No food deliveries to the museum front desk are allowed. Please arrange to meet any deliveries yourself outside the museum building. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

As the host of your child’s party, you help set the tone for a successful celebration. We’re counting on you to take responsibility for the conduct of your guests. By making your reservation, you acknowledge that you accept responsibility for any injuries, damages, or theft that occur on the premises as a result of your group’s involvement. Please help us maintain a safe, clean and fun environment for all guests to enjoy!

Please encourage your guests to wear closed-toe shoes appropriate for walking on uneven gravel, dirt or boardwalk paths and to dress to be comfortable outside—bring rain coats, jackets, gloves, etc. depending on weather. Insect repellent and sunscreen may also be desired, especially during spring, summer and fall.

We will not cancel a party due to weather, unless the museum has been closed, in which case, we will reschedule or refund your party if you have paid the remaining balance.

If you choose to cancel the birthday party yourself, without a two weeks notice, we will do our best to reschedule your party, but no refund will be given if the full balance has already been paid, and a reschedule fee will be charged. Our facility is open rain or shine!

For Dinosaur Party Packages—please note that the dinosaurs may occasionally experience mechanical issues. A discount will not be given if the dinosaurs are not moving.

You are allowed access to the party room 45 minutes before the start of your party  to set up. If you require additional time, and the room is available, an additional fee may be charged. This option must booked at the time of the reservation.

You must have the room clear of all your items, including decorations, by 15 minutes after the party time ends (i.e. 12:15pm for a 10:00am party; 4:15pm for a 2pm party). Your staff Party Host will take care of wiping down tables and sweeping the floor, etc. You and any of your guests included in the party headcount are welcome to stay and enjoy the museum afterwards.

Education parties are a package party booked through the education department with a focus on the educational activities. If you would like your party  or celebration of a different type, then we suggest that you consider booking your party as a Heard Venue Rental. Rental bookings are not scheduled through education and do not include an animal presentation or museum admission. 

As you enter the Museum gates, park in the first lot on your right if space is available. If all these parking spots are taken, continue past the Main Museum to the first available parking space in one of the overflow parking lots. There is no fee for parking.

There is not an elevator in the building, but there is a ramp outside the gift shop that will take you to the lower level. You are welcome to use a cart or wagon to haul items.

Yes, you can view the room; however, you must contact us to schedule a viewing ahead of time so we can make sure that the room in not in use and an education staff person is available to show you the room.

If you have more questions, please contact us at education@heardmuseum.org.