Chihuly Garden and Glass is an exhibition of Dale Chihuly’s glass art at Seattle Center, beside the Space Needle. The visit moves through indoor galleries, a glasshouse and an outdoor garden, where vivid sculptures sit among plants and trees. In the Glasshouse, look up at a suspended installation stretching 100 feet across the space. The galleries group works by theme, from forms inspired by sea life and baskets to chandeliers. Allow time to see the pieces in different light and to pause for photos in the garden.
The Glasshouse installation
The Glasshouse is the exhibition’s centerpiece, a glass-and-steel pavilion filled with light. Suspended overhead is a 100-foot-long sculpture in reds, oranges and yellows. Its scale and position make it easy to see the work from below, with the changing light adding another dimension to its colors.
The pavilion is 40 feet tall and covers 4,500 square feet. Chihuly’s interest in conservatories informed its design, bringing the feeling of a greenhouse into the exhibition. The glass sculpture combines the scale of an architectural installation with the shifting forms of blown glass.
Galleries and garden
Eight indoor galleries and three drawing walls trace different aspects of Chihuly’s work. The rooms move between darker and brighter settings, giving the glass distinct effects as you pass through. Themes include sea life, baskets influenced by Native American basket weaving, Venetian-inspired chandeliers and stained glass.
Outside, glass sculptures stand among plants and trees. The garden connects the artworks with their natural surroundings, while the Space Needle rises close by. The installations and planting change with the seasons, so the outdoor setting can look different at different times of year.
Dale Chihuly and the exhibition
Dale Chihuly was born in Tacoma, Washington. In 1971, he co-founded Pilchuck Glass School in Washington State, which developed into an international center for glass art. His work has expanded the use of glass beyond small objects into large sculptures and installations.
Chihuly Garden and Glass opened in 2012 at Seattle Center. It brings together pieces from across his career, including works made for the exhibition and items from his personal collection. A theater shows films about his approach to color and large-scale glasswork. Live glass-blowing demonstrations are also part of the experience; check what is scheduled for your visit.
Planning your visit
The exhibition is at 305 Harrison Street, next to the Space Needle. Its location makes it easy to include with other Seattle Center stops. A self-guided route takes you through the indoor galleries, Glasshouse and garden; free guided tours are also available.
Budget at least one to two hours, and longer if you want to photograph the installations. Weekdays and off-peak periods can mean fewer crowds. If you intend to visit several Seattle attractions, compare the CityPASS with your plans before buying.
FAQ
How long should you spend at Chihuly Garden and Glass?
Allow at least 1 to 2 hours to see the galleries, Glasshouse and garden. Leave extra time if you want to take photographs.
What is the main highlight of Chihuly Garden and Glass?
The Glasshouse contains a suspended glass sculpture measuring 100 feet long. The exhibition also includes eight indoor galleries and an outdoor garden.
Is Chihuly Garden and Glass near the Space Needle?
Yes. It is at Seattle Center, beside the Space Needle, at 305 Harrison Street.
Are guided tours or glass-blowing demonstrations available?
Free guided tours and live glass-blowing demonstrations are mentioned as options. Check what is scheduled during your visit.
