Chihuly Garden And Glass Review – One of Seattle’s Best Kept Secrets
The Chihuly Garden and Glass is a must-see attraction when you visit Seattle. The beautiful glass sculptures with vibrant colors are breathtaking. This collection of artwork by Dale Chihuly, a famous American artist, is something you should absolutely visit.
The glass ceiling at the Bellagio in Las Vegas initially sparked my interest in Chihuly’s Seattle museum. Like the Bellagio lobby, the Chihuly Garden and Glass is a place of delight for all who enter.
In addition to the beautiful and intricate glass sculptures inside, the outdoor garden area is equally spectacular, with glass sculptures and plants from all over the world.
The garden paths lead visitors through all types of flowers with stunning glass displays hidden within, creating a dazzling display no matter what time you visit. The Chihuly Garden also lies at the Space Needle’s base, making it much more spectacular.
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Chihuly’s Early Career and Collection
Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, Dale Chihuly’s work often reflects the region’s influence. After studying at The University of Washington, he attended the Rhode Island School of Design, where he began the glass program and taught for many years.
Chihuly has created more than 2,000 works of art. His work is displayed in over 200 museums worldwide and 100 public gardens, parks, and botanical gardens.
Chihuly’s work includes displays at museums and botanical gardens worldwide, including the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven, the Toyama Glass Art Museum in Japan, and the San Antonio Museum of Art, to name just a few.
I was even surprised to find his work in a Kentucky Bourbon Trail distillery on a recent visit. The “Spirit of Bourbon” adorns the ceiling in a limestone cave at Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky.
The Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum
Chihuly Garden and Glass is part of the Seattle Center in Seattle, Washington. The gallery houses one of the world’s largest collections of glass artworks by this renowned artist.
The museum opened on May 21, 2012, with over one acre of exhibit space.
The Museum
The Chihuly Glass and Garden Museum is a must-see for any glass art lover. It’s home to the world’s largest permanent collection of Dale Chihuly’s work.
Inside the museum, you’ll find yourself surrounded by gorgeous glass sculptures. The color and texture used to create pieces are both beautiful and unusual. Some are huge (we’re talking 10 feet tall), while others are small enough to hold in your hand.
In addition to seeing his work up close, visitors can participate in live glass demonstrations focusing on how artists create glass sculptures.
My Favorite Exhibits
As you enter the museum, you will walk through eight galleries of jaw-dropping glass sculptures and artwork.
My absolute favorite is the gallery with the Mille Fiori. The Mille Fiori is an explosion of colorful glass pieces displayed over black reflecting glass.
The pieces are visually stunning. Every angle reveals a different perspective. You will be in awe as you walk through this gallery.
TRIP TIP: While you roam the grounds, look for professional photographers who will take your picture for free. The complimentary photos can be viewed and emailed to you at a kiosk by the bathrooms, or you can access them through their website.
Equally impressive is the Ikebana and Float Boat exhibition. The Float Boat is an incredible piece of art. The piece was inspired by Chihuly’s time in Finland when he had the idea to toss the glass pieces over the edge of a bridge. Then, young boys would retrieve the glass and bring it back to him in small boats.
The Sealife Room is another unbelievable exhibit. The pieces are large, colorful, and vibrant. They reflect Chihuly’s love of the ocean and his time growing up in the Pacific Northwest.
The massive 20-foot Sealife Tower in the Sealife Room invites you to find the sea creatures hidden throughout. It’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular exhibits.
One space that you cannot miss is the Seven Chandeliers hallway. The chandeliers are absolutely breathtaking. Each one has a different color, but they all have a similar theme of glass pieces dangling from the ceiling in a dazzling display.
The Garden
The outdoor garden displays more of Chihuly’s work at the base of the Seattle Space Needle.
Glass sculptures peek out from gardens in various areas that range from grassy lawns to gravel pathways. Each sculpture is different in size, but they all create interesting visuals against the backdrop of nature.
It is easy to spend most of your time in the garden. The sights and sounds create such a peaceful environment.
The garden sits below the Seattle Space Needle. You can take photos with your friends or family using the Space Needle and Gardens for the background.
The Glasshouse
The Glasshouse at Chihuly Garden and Glass Art Museum is unlike any other.
Inside, you’ll find a glass ceiling, a glass floor, and walls made of glass.
The focal point is the stunning 100-foot long and 25-foot high glass sculpture suspended beneath the glass dome. The vibrant oranges and yellows light up the exceptionally beautiful space.
My pictures don’t do it justice. The exhibit will capture your attention from all angles.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
There are a few things you should know before visiting Chihuly Garden and Glass.
The Best Time to Visit Chihuly Garden and Glass
First, it’s best to go in the summer when there’s less chance of rain.
Second, the museum is open from 10 am until 5 pm on most days, with the last admission being 45 minutes before closing.
Finally, you’ll want to buy your tickets online and reserve your time for entry. If you plan to visit the Seattle Space Needle, buy a package that includes the Chihuly Garden and Glass and Space Needle combo tickets for a discount.
The Chihuly Garden and Glass price is $32 for adults.
Plan Your Visit
How long will it take to visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass?
The museum is fairly small, so you can see everything in just a few hours.
If you want to take your time and enjoy the exhibits, however, plan to spend at least 2-3 hours there.
Add 30 minutes to an hour if you also plan to see the Space Needle.
What Should You Wear?
Dress comfortably and in layers if possible. Seattle can get chilly in the evenings, even during the summer months, so it’s best to pack a jacket or sweatshirt just in case.
The Chihuly Garden and Glass Gift Shop
This place is fantastic in itself, but the gift shop, The Bookstore, also has something for everyone.
The staff members are helpful and friendly; they answered all of my questions without making me feel silly or stupid for asking them.
Souvenirs range from T-shirts to ornaments to books on contemporary art. You will also be able to find work from local artists here.
Is the Chihuly Garden and Glass worth a visit?
It’s no secret that Seattle is one of the most beautiful cities in America, and Chihuly Garden and Glass is an attraction you don’t want to miss.
The museum features new exhibits every year, so you can always be sure to find something new when you visit.
It’s absolutely worth a visit if you’re looking for beautiful art, especially if you’re into glasswork.
Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass
I had a great time exploring the Chihuly Garden and Glass. It’s one of my favorite museums, and I can’t wait to return.
The Chihuly Garden and Glass is a must-see if you’re in Seattle. Located on the grounds of the Space Needle, it’s a great place to spend an hour or two. You’ll learn about Dale Chihuly, and see some of his most beautiful pieces.
Other Nearby Seattle Attractions
While you are in the Seattle Center, make time to visit the other Seattle Center attractions.
The Space Needle
The iconic structure is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Seattle. It was built for the 1962 World’s Fair, and offers breathtaking views of the city from its top.
Pacific Science Center
Located right next door to Chihuly Garden and Glass is the Pacific Science Center.
The Pacific Science Center is a great place to visit in Seattle.
You can go there year-round, but it’s especially fun during the summer because they have a bunch of special exhibits and programs that are related to the outdoors and nature.
They also have an IMAX theater where you can watch the latest movies in 3D, along with special documentary movies.
Museum of Pop Culture
Seattle Center is home to the Museum of Pop Culture or MoPOP. The museum was founded in 2000 by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen and is dedicated to exploring popular culture through art, music, and film.
It features rotating exhibits from both local and international artists, covering topics like comic books, video games, and movies.
Seattle is a city that is full of things to do and see. The Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Seattle Aquarium are just some of the many attractions that make this city so special.
If you need a hotel near the Chihuly Garden and Glass, be sure to check out our post on best places to stay in Seattle, along with ideas for plenty of other things for you to do in Seattle as well.
