More from our guest blogger and native Seattleite, Natalie Malin.

While you’re in Seattle, you’ll want to visit the beautiful Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, located at the Seattle Center, next to the Space Needle.  This exhibit showcases the spectacular blown glass artistry of our world-famous glass artist Dale Chihuly, whose work graces exhibits throughout the world. Dale’s work is so beautiful, it will leave a lasting impression!

Chihuly Garden and Glass is open every day starting at 11 A.M. They close at 6 P.M. Sunday through Thursday, and stay open until 7 P.M. on Fridays and Saturdays. For tickets, details, and photos see chihulygardenandglass.com.

Of note: There is also a dazzling Chihuly display at Bellevue’s Lincoln Square (shops, restaurants, movie theaters, etc.) across the skybridge from the Bellevue Mall (world-class shopping for gifts, including our wonderful “Made In Washington” store).

Speaking of the city of Bellevue: To get there from Seattle, you’ll travel across one of two current floating bridges (they literally float on pontoons over our beautiful Lake Washington), taking you from Seattle to Bellevue. FYI: Seattle is the acknowledged “Floating Bridge Capitol of the world.”

We have two floating bridges connecting the Eastside to Seattle. The “520 Bridge” from Seattle to Bellevue, is currently the longest floating bridge in the world (a toll bridge) see photo, above. While the I-90 Bridge from Seattle to Bellevue via Mercer Island is the second longest floating bridge in the world (no toll).  A bonus when taking the I-90s bridge is the view of majestic Mt.  Rainier.