Chihuly Garden and Glass — Attraction in Seattle

I don’t normally seek out art museums, but my wife enjoys them, so we occasionally take one in. However, this glass museum intrigued me when I had seen it from the outside years ago. Now that my wife and I were visiting, we decided to stop in.

This place is all about glass. They do have a few other items, like baskets and blankets in the first gallery, but glass is the star of the show. And it’s quite a site to behold.

It isn’t cheap to enter, but we purchased a CityPASS, and this museum is one option from that list.

The structures are enormous and vibrant. Some rooms contain just one or two massive installations.

When we arrived, I noticed a sign that said there were free 30-minute tours at 11:30 and 1:30. Since it was just before 1:30, we waited for that tour to start. (The sign was in the earlier rooms near the blankets.) Our guide had a small microphone and provided some interesting information on some select pieces. We went through the entire gallery, but didn’t stop in every room. So you’ll need to go back through if you want to see the rest of the exhibits.

At the end, we were able to watch a hot shop demonstration in the courtyard. That was really interesting and even entertaining to watch. Whenever you go, I’d ask about the times for tours and demonstrations. The demonstration around 2:00 was the last one of the day. Had we not gone on the tour, we would have missed it.

In the glasshouse, the last interior building, we also saw a photographer taking free photos, so we asked him to take some pictures. You just need to have your ticket for him to scan so you download the photo from the website later on. So hang onto the ticket until you do so.

The museum isn’t large, but I found myself just trying to take in all the color and magnitude of some of the pieces.

Toward the exit, they have a small theater you can watch various clips regarding the creation of some of Chihuly’s art. It is on a continuous loop, and there are about 6-7 short segments. The benches, especially those along the wall, are a nice spot to rest a bit, too.

If you like art, I’d recommend this place. If you’re not into art, I’d still recommend it because it’s completely different from...

During our family trip to Seattle, we had the unforgettable experience of visiting the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, nestled right next to the iconic Space Needle in the Seattle Center. From the moment we stepped into this artistic sanctuary, it was clear we were in for something extraordinary.

The exhibit, showcasing the stunning studio glass of Dale Chihuly, left an indelible impression on us all, especially on August, Enzo, and Roman. Their eyes widened in awe as we entered the Glasshouse, where a massive 100-foot-long glass sculpture, suspended in the air, captivated us with its vibrant colors and intricate design. This masterpiece, one of Chihuly's largest, seemed to dance in the light, casting a rainbow of colors throughout the space.

As we strolled through the Garden, the fusion of lush greenery and glass art created a surreal landscape that felt like stepping into a fantastical world. Each installation, unique in its form and color, told a story that resonated with our boys, sparking their imaginations and curiosity. They pointed excitedly, discussing among themselves which pieces were their favorites and why.

The Interior Exhibits further deepened our appreciation for Chihuly's artistry. Each gallery offered a new perspective on the potential of glass as a medium, showcasing everything from sea-inspired creations to massive, ceiling-high installations. The boys, usually hard to keep still, moved slowly here, fully absorbed in the visual feast before them.

Our visit concluded with a delightful time at the café, where we enjoyed refreshments surrounded by more of Chihuly's works. It was a perfect moment for Annemarie and me to reflect on the beauty we'd witnessed, and for the boys to express their excitement and wonder over what they'd seen.

This visit to Chihuly Garden and Glass wasn't just a day out in Seattle; it was an enriching experience that broadened our boys' horizons and left us all with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and creativity behind glass sculpture. The memory of this visit remains vividly etched in our minds, a testament to the power of art in igniting wonder and inspiration in people...

“A spectacular sensory feast—Chihuly Garden & Glass is Seattle art at its vibrant best!”

🌟 Highlights: • Breathtaking installations: The Glasshouse’s towering 100‑foot sculpture—vibrant reds, oranges, yellows—dazzles as light shifts through the day. It’s the centerpiece of this magical space . • Perfect indoor/outdoor flow: The three distinct zones—the Interior Exhibits, Garden, and Glasshouse—are seamlessly woven together by peaceful paths and thoughtful benches . • Engaging and approachable: Whether you’re a glass art connoisseur or a casual visitor, the playful, imaginative sculptures draw everyone in—including expert-curious folks and plant lovers alike . • Well-designed amenities: The café boasts quirky glass décor and tempting stone-fired Neapolitan pizza; plus, it’s spacious with a lovely outdoor seating area .

💡 Tips & Extras: • Audio tours & live demos: Free docent-led sessions, short films, and glass-blowing demos in the hot shop add layers of insight (best to plan 1.5–2 hours for everything) . • Timing matters: Visit on weekdays or early/late to enjoy quieter galleries—mornings and evenings around the Glasshouse are especially magical . • Photographer’s dream: The interplay of natural and architectural light makes for stunning photos—but note tripods and selfie-sticks are discouraged .

⚠️ Minor considerations: • Admission cost: At $26–35, tickets can feel pricey for the size—but many visitors find the experience worthwhile. Bundling with the Space Needle or using a CityPASS offers great value . • Touristy environment: The museum attracts many visitors, which can lead to crowding in peak season—though designed seating and thoughtful layout help maintain a calm pace .

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Chihuly Garden & Glass is a 5‑star gem in Seattle Center—a stunning fusion of art, light, glass, and nature. It sparks wonder at every turn, offers immersive learning, and leaves a lasting impression. Ideal for art lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience Seattle’s...