Chihuly Garden and Glass: A Seattle Center Masterpiece
Experience the mesmerizing world of glass art at Seattle's Chihuly Garden and Glass, a vibrant exhibition by Dale Chihuly.
Chihuly Garden and Glass is a visually stunning exhibition located in the Seattle Center, next to the Space Needle [21]. Opened in May 2012, it showcases the studio glass of Dale Chihuly, a renowned American artist celebrated for his large-scale glass sculptures [3, 21]. The exhibition is divided into several key components: the Glasshouse, the exhibition galleries, and the garden [21]. The Glasshouse is the centerpiece, featuring a 40-foot tall glass and steel structure that houses a 100-foot-long suspended sculpture in a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, yellows, and ambers [3, 20]. This massive installation interacts with natural light, creating a mesmerizing effect that changes throughout the day [3, 20]. The exhibition galleries display a range of Chihuly's works, offering insight into his artistic journey and techniques [3, 5]. Visitors can explore various themed rooms, such as the Sealife Room, Persian Ceiling, and Mille Fiori, each showcasing unique glass forms and installations [3, 5]. The Bar at Chihuly Garden and Glass displays over 25 of Dale Chihuly's personal collections and an illuminated installation of 36 signature Chihuly Drawings [4]. The garden integrates Chihuly's glass art with natural plants, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature [3, 20]. The garden is divided into distinct areas, each with its own color scheme, featuring sculptures like the Crystal and Icicle Towers and Reeds on Logs [20]. The Seattle Public Schools partners with the museum to provide free tickets to students [21].
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience [3].
- Take advantage of the free audio tour available on your smartphone for insights into the art [4, 8].
- Check the official website for adjusted hours due to private events [2, 3].
- Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the galleries, Glasshouse, and garden [2, 3].
- Consider visiting at sunset for a magical experience as the changing sky enhances the glass sculptures [3].
A brief summary to Chihuly Garden and Glass
- 305 Harrison St, Seattle, Queen Anne, Washington, 98109, US
- +1206-753-4940
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-8 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From downtown Seattle, the Seattle Center Monorail offers a direct and quick connection to Seattle Center, where Chihuly Garden and Glass is located [2, 3]. The Monorail departs from Westlake Center and arrives at Seattle Center in just a few minutes [2, 3, 11]. Alternatively, several bus routes serve the Seattle Center area [3, 14]. A one-way Monorail ticket costs $2 - $4 [15].
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Walking
From downtown Seattle, it's a pleasant 20-30 minute walk to Seattle Center, offering scenic city views [3]. Head north towards the Space Needle, which is adjacent to Chihuly Garden and Glass. No costs are involved.
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Taxi/Ride-share
A taxi or ride-sharing service from downtown Seattle to Chihuly Garden and Glass typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic [3]. The drop-off point is near the Seattle Center, a short walk from the exhibition entrance. The estimated cost is $6 - $9 [15].
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Parking
The closest parking to Chihuly Garden and Glass is at the Seattle Center's 5th Avenue N. parking garage [2, 6]. Several other parking garages are available within walking distance [2]. Expect to pay hourly rates ranging from $5 to $15, or daily rates [9, 13]. Street parking is also available, but check for time limits and restrictions [16].
