Landmark
Chihuly Bridge of Glass
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The Chihuly Bridge of Glass is a 500-foot-long pedestrian bridge that serves as a vibrant gateway between the Museum of Glass and downtown Tacoma. Designed by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, the bridge features three major installations: the Crystal Towers, which are 40-foot-tall spires of blue and green glass; the Seaform Pavilion, a ceiling of over 2,000 hand-blown glass forms resembling sea creatures; and the Venetian Wall, a 100-foot-long wall of colorful blown-glass pieces. Walking across the bridge feels like stepping into a kaleidoscope, with natural light constantly changing the appearance of the glass. It's free to visit and open 24/7, making it a popular spot for photos and a unique way to experience public art. The bridge also offers views of the Thea Foss Waterway and the city skyline.
Don't miss
- Admire the 40-foot Crystal Towers at the bridge's entrance
- Look up at the Seaform Pavilion's colorful glass ceiling
- Walk along the Venetian Wall with its intricate glass pieces
- Take photos at sunset when the glass glows
- Visit the nearby Museum of Glass for more Chihuly works
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Chihuly Bridge of Glass
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Chihuly Bridge of Glass with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inGlass Blowing Show Visit Murano Glass Factory and Showroom OMG4.2★ · 79 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$6 per personSee dates →
Most bookedSpace Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass Combination Ticket4.6★ · 1,719 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$78 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleGulong Gorge Skywalk Glass Bridge and Waterfall View Private Tour5★ · 108 travelers5–11 hoursFrom$140 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- The bridge is open 24/7, but the best light is during daylight hours.
- Photography is encouraged, the glass changes color with the light.
- Tacoma is rainy; bring an umbrella, but the glass looks beautiful even in overcast weather.
- Combine your visit with the Museum of Glass, which is at the south end of the bridge.
A bit of history
The bridge opened in 2002 as part of Tacoma's revitalization of the Thea Foss Waterway. Dale Chihuly, a Tacoma native, donated the glass installations. It was designed by architect Arthur Andersson and built to connect the Museum of Glass to the city's downtown core.
Common questions
Is the Chihuly Bridge of Glass free?
Yes, it's free to walk across and open to the public 24 hours a day.
How long does it take to see the bridge?
Most visitors spend 20-30 minutes walking and taking photos.
Can I visit at night?
Yes, the bridge is illuminated at night, offering a different perspective.
Is the bridge wheelchair accessible?
Yes, there are ramps at both ends.
Where is the best place to park?
There are paid parking lots near the Museum of Glass and along Dock Street.
Are there guided tours?
No official tours, but you can explore on your own. The Museum of Glass offers guided tours of its exhibits.
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