In 1987, Daryl?s By Design, a Dallas-based catering company and restaurant, opened in the Design Center. A focal point of the facility was the large saltwater aquarium that was a favorite of all guests. Needing more space and accessibility as the business grew, an empty warehouse at 1801 North Griffin Street, in downtown Dallas, was purchased by Daryl Richardson?s Gourmet Catering in August 1991.
The dilapidated two-story brick structure had been built in 1924 and housed a variety of industrial companies over many years. Some of these companies were the Mohawk Rubber Company and the Pioneer Steel Rule and Die Company. Construction on The Dallas World Aquarium started in August 1991 and opened to the public on October 26, 1992.
Since the inauguration of The Dallas World Aquarium, Daryl?s Richardson?s Gourmet Catering Company has added Orinoco: Secrets of the River (Venezuelan Rainforest Exhibit, 1997) and Mundo Maya (Mayan Rainforest Exhibit, 2004). All three exhibit spaces make up The Dallas World Aquarium during the day and become three unique venues for private and corporate events in the evenings.