How to Plan a Trip to the Glass Museum in Tacoma, Washington

The Museum of Glass in Tacoma Washington is on the "hot ticket" of things to do in the Seattle area. Seeing the outside of the museum is worth the trip in and of itself. Step inside, though, to see exhibits from world-renowned artists that use glass in many types of media. The Glass Museum hosts many events and activities for the public and is available for private use as well. Be blown away at this fascinating museum of glass.

Instructions

1. Visit the museum Wednesday through Sunday. The museum is closed on Monday and Tuesday. The third Thursday of every month the museum stays open until later and is free from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesdays also offer a discounted rate. Call [phone] for more information.

2. Park in the parking garage located beneath the museum. Parking is available for $2.50 per hour. Park free on Dock and Pacific Avenues and at the Tacoma Dome Link Station. If you park at the Link, ride the free train to the museum. Ride to the second stop at 19th and Pacific streets. Use the glass bridge to cross the street to the museum.

3. Walk across the bridge of glass, know as Chihuly Bridge of Glass, whether using it to enter the museum or just for fun. The Chihuly is 500 feet long and connects the Glass Museum to downtown Seattle.

4. Visit the Hot Shop to see live glass making demonstrations. This is perhaps the most exciting part of the trip. Professional artists sculpt glass as you watch and sometimes you help design the piece. A guide explains the process, art and history behind this amazing art of glass making. Almost weekly, a visiting artist is in the museum working with the museums glass blowers to create glass masterpieces.

5. Use a complimentary wheel chair or audio devise while in the museum. The museum is fully handicapped accessible. Strollers are also available free of charge to those who need them. Baby backpacks are not allowed in the galleries. For those visiting with children, be sure to check out the daily art project available for families.

6. Take advantage of one of the museums many public programs. Family activities are available on the second Saturday of every month. These programs are hands on and designed for the entire family. Theater productions, art lectures, special music and dance programs are available. Even take a public tour of the museum if you wish.

7. Take home a souvenir from the museum. The museum shop is located in the front of the museum. It offers glass art in a wide range of styles and prices. The store is the exclusive dealer for art made by the Museum of Glass Hot Shop artists. Also find books, toys, jewelry, games and much more. Contact the museum store at [phone] or email them at [e-mail] for any questions you may have about the products.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep a close eye on children. Everything is glass and breakable.