Don't come to Tacoma's Museum of Glass and International Center for Contemporary Art expecting your typical museum and don't come expecting only glass.

Northwest Backroads

It's the only American museum that features contemporary glass. There are just three in the world with such a focus and this jewel is right in our own backyard.

The unique four-story structure opened to the public in 2002 and offers several outdoor plazas perfect for relaxing and enjoying the great Pacific Northwest scenery.

Spectators can watch the hypnotic ballet of glassmaking take place in the hot shop – the centerpiece of the museum, where most visitors hang out. It's the birthplace of many an art piece.

A tilted 90-foot-tall steel cone is a reminder of the sawmill wood burners of old and houses the amphitheater where beautiful glass art is blown.

The 500-foot-long Chihuly bridge of glass is a stunning exhibit you shouldn't miss.

Walk to the museum from downtown Tacoma via the Dale Chihuly "Bridge of Glass." Surround yourself with glass trees, a showcase wall and a pergola stuffed with 2,500 Chihuly pieces.