GRAPEVINE, Texas — A construction-themed adventure park where kids get behind the wheel of real heavy machinery is set to break ground in North Texas.

Dig World, a one-of-a-kind park that lets families operate full-size excavators, bulldozers and other construction equipment, will open next to Grapevine Mills mall in early 2026, according to a news release from the company. While an official opening date hasn’t been set yet, anticipation is building thanks to the park’s national spotlight earlier this year.

Dig World co-founder Jacob Robinson appeared on Shark Tank in March 2025, sharing his personal story that inspired the concept. Robinson’s son, Pierce, lives with significant special needs after a severe case of bacterial meningitis, and is fascinated by big construction machines. Watching his son light up around bulldozers and diggers sparked the idea for a safe, family-friendly theme park where kids — and adults — can operate real equipment.

The pitch won over Shark Tank investor Robert Herjavec, who backed the company’s expansion. The North Texas location will be Dig World’s second park, following its first site in Katy, just outside Houston.

Dig World says its mission is to provide families with “a unique, hands-on experience operating real, full-size construction equipment,” while inspiring kids to become “the builders of tomorrow.” All rides and activities are professionally engineered and modified to ensure safe use by children.

Construction of the Grapevine location is expected to begin later this year, with hiring for staff and ride operators likely starting by fall 2025.

In addition to letting kids operate excavators and skid steers under supervision, Dig World plans to offer educational programs that teach visitors about construction careers and how these machines help build communities.

The park is also designed to be accessible and inclusive for families with children of varying abilities — a nod to Pierce Robinson’s role in sparking the idea.

The announcement adds to North Texas’s growing lineup of themed attractions, which includes kid-friendly experiences like Legoland Discovery Center and Peppa Pig Theme Park, both located at or near major shopping destinations.

For families like the Robinsons, the vision goes beyond just fun rides. “Dig World isn’t just a park — it’s a place to create memories and inspire curiosity,” Robinson said in a statement.

Originally reported by Paris Goodman in Fort Worth Star-Telegram.