Overview of Tripadvisor’s 2025 Traveler’s Choice Awards
In 2025, the travel platform Tripadvisor released its list of the top U.S. attractions, highlighting destinations that offer unforgettable experiences to visitors. Among the notable spots were iconic landmarks like the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and the Empire State Building. However, one standout addition to the list was a large-scale art exhibit in Washington state that left travelers in awe.
Chihuly Garden and Glass, located near the Space Needle at Seattle Center, made it to the 12th position on the list of “Best of the Best Things to Do.” The rankings were determined by the number of positive reviews and feedback from the platform’s community over the past year. This recognition underscores the unique appeal of the exhibit, which combines art, nature, and innovation in a way that captivates visitors.
What is Chihuly Garden and Glass?
Chihuly Garden and Glass is a long-term exhibition dedicated to the work of Dale Chihuly, a globally acclaimed artist known for his intricate glass sculptures. His works are featured in over 200 museum collections worldwide. The exhibit opened in 2012 and includes galleries, a theater, an urban garden, and a glasshouse. One of the most striking features is a 100-foot-long sculpture that fills the space with vibrant colors of red, yellow, and orange.
The museum boasts eight indoor galleries and lush landscaped gardens, showcasing both new and classic pieces from Chihuly’s collection. Visitors often find themselves amazed by the visual impact of the artwork, especially when viewed during the evening when the sculptures are illuminated. With a 4.8 rating on Tripadvisor and over 25,000 reviews, the attraction continues to draw admiration from travelers.
A visitor from Pennsylvania shared their experience, stating: “Visually it is amazing, the different collections are so stunning. Inside the rooms your eyes do not know where to focus as each piece is wonderful. However, the even more amazing sights are in the gardens with the blend of natural beauty and glass (reminded so much of Gaudi and how he saw things).”
Location and Visiting Information
Chihuly Garden and Glass is located at 305 Harrison St., Seattle, Washington, just next to the base of the Space Needle at Seattle Center. The experience typically takes between one to two hours to fully enjoy, making it a perfect stop for those visiting the area.
General admission tickets range from about $35 to $43, with discounts available for seniors and children aged 5-12. Kids under 4 can enter for free. These pricing options make the exhibit accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Top Attractions in Tripadvisor’s 2025 List
Tripadvisor’s 2025 Traveler’s Choice Awards highlighted the following top 12 attractions:
- NASA Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex– Merritt Island, Florida
- Empire State Building– New York City, New York
- Sun Studio– Memphis, Tennessee
- Central Park– New York City, New York
- Stetson Mansion– DeLand, Florida
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park– Key Largo, Florida Keys, Florida
- Brooklyn Bridge– New York City, New York
- National Museum of World War II Aviation– Colorado Springs, Colorado
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art– New York City, New York
- Alcatraz Island– San Francisco, California
- Iolani Palace– Honolulu, Hawaii
- Chihuly Garden and Glass– Seattle, Washington
These locations represent some of the most captivating and highly-rated places to visit in the United States this year. Each offers a unique experience, whether it’s exploring history, enjoying natural beauty, or immersing oneself in world-class art.
