Chihuly Bridge of Glass

Imagine a stroll through a 150-meter corridor where thousands of glass sculptures come to life above your head and around you. The Chihuly Bridge of Glass in the city of Tacoma (USA) is a unique pedestrian bridge turned into a grand open-air art installation. It connects the bustling city center with the waterfront and the famous Museum of Glass, spanning right over Interstate 705.

This architectural masterpiece resulted from a collaboration between world-renowned glassblower Dale Chihuly and architect Arthur Anderson. The bridge is a central element of the so-called "Museum Row" and is accessible to everyone completely free of charge. This is a place where urban infrastructure functionality meets the magic of high art, creating a unique atmosphere at any time of day.

To find more information about visiting the art site and events in the cultural district, you can use the contact details for the Museum of Glass, with which the bridge forms a single architectural complex.

The main activity on the bridge is contemplating three unique installations. Start your walk with the Seaform Pavilion: in this covered section, the ceiling is decorated with more than two thousand colorful glass elements. Sunlight passing through them creates whimsical shadows, evoking the feeling of walking along the seabed among corals and jellyfish.

In the central part of the bridge, you can't miss the Crystal Towers. These 12-meter sculptures made of turquoise glass resemble giant salt crystals. They look especially striking at night when their soft blue glow transforms the urban landscape. Completing the composition is the Venetian Wall — a 24-meter-long showcase displaying over a hundred exquisite vases that demonstrate incredible mastery of form and color.

In addition to viewing the glass, the bridge offers excellent panoramic views of Union Station and the bay. It is a wonderful location for photoshoots, where modern art is harmoniously integrated into the city's industrial backdrop.

The attraction is located at: Bridge of Glass, Tacoma, WA 98402. Reaching it is very easy on foot from the city center. A walk from Union Station or the Tacoma Art Museum takes no more than 5–10 minutes, making the bridge a perfect point on a walking route.

If you use public transport, it is most convenient to take the Link Light Rail or city buses to the Tacoma Dome Station and then walk. For those who prefer a taxi, a trip from any downtown Tacoma area will be quick and inexpensive.

For travelers by car, there are parking zones at the Museum of Glass and numerous lots downtown. The bridge is well-suited for both pedestrians and cyclists, offering a safe crossing over a busy highway.

The idea for this unique space was born in 1992 during a conversation between Phil Phibbs and the famous artist Dale Chihuly. At that time, the Thea Foss Waterway area in the city of Tacoma (USA) was one of the most polluted industrial zones in the country. A large-scale revitalization project required over $100 million in investment to clean the land and transform it into a cultural hub.

Initially, Arthur Erickson developed the project, but Arthur Anderson later took over the architectural side. Dale Chihuly himself, a Tacoma native, insisted that the bridge become more than just a crossing, but a full-fledged art gallery. He gifted the city three massive installations that made this place globally recognizable.

The grand opening took place in 2002, marking the completion of the transformation of a derelict industrial district into a thriving "Museum Row." Today, the bridge is considered one of the most striking examples of how public art can completely change the look and feel of a modern city.

For a thoughtful look at all three installations, taking photos, and a leisurely stroll, 30–45 minutes is enough for most visitors. It is an ideal spot for a quick stop during a city tour.

If you plan to combine your walk across the bridge with a visit to the Museum of Glass or other galleries on Pacific Avenue, you should set aside 2–3 hours for this area. The place takes on a special charm at dusk or night when the illumination turns on, transforming the glass towers into glowing landmarks.

One of the main advantages of this attraction is its accessibility: the Chihuly Bridge of Glass is open to the public 24/7, seven days a week. You can enjoy a walk in bright daylight or under the mysterious night lighting.

Visiting the bridge is completely free. However, if you plan to visit the adjacent Museum of Glass, we recommend checking its opening hours on the official website beforehand, as it operates on a fixed schedule.

Exploring the surroundings of the bridge can significantly enrich your travel experience. The Museum Row area and the adjacent waterfront are literally saturated with interesting historical and cultural sites.