Nestled within Seattle’s iconic Chihuly Garden and Glass, The Bookstore is far more than a typical museum gift shop. It’s a magical space brimming with vibrant art, hands-on discovery, and thoughtful gifts inspired by Dale Chihuly’s world-renowned glasswork and beyond. Whether you’re visiting after a tour of the gallery or just hunting for unique treasures, The Bookstore offers something to enchant art lovers, families, and kids alike. This guide will walk you through the store’s must-see features, playful products, and essential tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Discovering The Bookstore at Chihuly Garden and Glass
Tucked beside the stunning Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibition, The Bookstore is a haven for design aficionados and curious wanderers. Immediately upon entering, you’re struck by the vibrant colors, imaginative displays, and the seamless integration of art into everyday objects. The store captures the spirit of Chihuly’s work, infusing the space with creativity and warmth.
The layout of the store invites exploration. Each section is thoughtfully curated, with art books, home décor, hands-on kits, and one-of-a-kind accessories. The merchandise reflects both Chihuly’s signature style and the Pacific Northwest’s love for nature and innovation. No matter your age or interests, you’ll find yourself lingering over beautifully arranged shelves and tables.
A Treasure Trove of Unique Art-Inspired Gifts
What truly sets The Bookstore apart is its extraordinary selection of art-inspired gifts. Here, every item feels like a curated discovery—gifts that elevate the everyday into something beautiful and inspired. The signature merchandise ranges from handmade jewelry and glass ornaments to practical accessories, all carefully chosen to reflect Chihuly’s colorful, organic forms.
Jewelry and pins by Magpie Mouse Studios offer subtle yet playful nods to Chihuly’s art, featuring bold shapes and brilliant hues that instantly brighten any outfit.
For those who like to bring a piece of the gallery home, The Bookstore has a solid selection of books. Not to be missed is “The Magic Bunny” by Paddy Comyn and Barry Sheehan – a charming story for children about the adventures of a little bunny with magical powers. It teaches little ones to value friendship, courage and self-belief through exciting and kind events. Ideal for family reading and developing imagination.
For hands-on fun, the Fancy Plants diorama kit allow families to experience the joys of gardening indoors.
The little bee house made from wood encourages environmental stewardship, offering a cozy habitat for pollinators and teaching kids about the importance of biodiversity.
Why Kids Love the Bookstore: Engaging Finds for All Ages
Parents and children alike are drawn to The Bookstore for its playful spirit and hands-on treasures. The store’s kid-friendly focus is evident in its vibrant displays, tactile products, and a selection that encourages imagination and learning. Unlike many museum shops, this one fully embraces young visitors, making it a highlight of any family trip.
For budding artists and inventors, the creativity kits are a must. These all-in-one sets include everything needed for hands-on projects, from painting and collage to building and design. Gorgeous colored pencils, included in several kits, encourage kids and adults alike to sketch, doodle, and dream. The playful motifs and tactile materials make writing and drawing feel extra special, turning even the simplest note or doodle into an artistic statement.
Children gravitate toward the colorful creativity kits, art supplies, and activity books—each designed to spark curiosity and artistic exploration. The iconic MILO Cubebot, for example, is both a building toy and a modern design piece, perfect for fidgety hands and inspiring hours of imaginative play.
Stationery lovers will be smitten by The Bookstore’s stylish and practical offerings. The Eeboo collection is a highlight, featuring beautifully illustrated paper fans, eye-catching notebooks, and whimsical playing cards—all designed to infuse everyday routines with color and creativity. These items make for perfect souvenirs or gifts, easily tucked into a bag and carried home.
Among the Bookstore’s most popular items are whimsical felt birdhouses—handcrafted and vibrantly colored, these eco-friendly homes offer a playful introduction to birdwatching and nature stewardship. Kids love choosing their favorite designs, while parents appreciate the sustainable materials and charming aesthetic.
Felt birdhouses offer an introduction to both craft and caring for wildlife, while seed sprouting kits invite kids to nurture their own miniature gardens at home.
Nature lovers will find plenty to celebrate at The Bookstore. Highlights include delicate flower magnets, each one crafted with real botanicals and preserved to capture the fleeting beauty of a freshly picked bloom. They make charming keepsakes for your refrigerator or office.
Home décor aficionados will appreciate the selection of wooden products, each one-of-a-kind and perfect for adding a touch of natural beauty to a bookshelf. There’s also a range of whimsical accents—like brightly colored trinket dishes, cheerful candle holders, and sculptural glass ornaments—that bring artistry into your everyday spaces.
Skincare products here are thoughtfully chosen, often highlighting local makers and natural ingredients. From soothing lotions to fragrant soaps, each item is a little luxury designed to nourish both body and spirit—making for perfect gifts or indulgent treats after a day of exploring the gardens.
Family Tips: Best Times and Ways to Visit the Bookstore
To make the most of your visit, plan to stop by The Bookstore during off-peak hours—weekday mornings or late afternoons are typically quieter, offering families more space to browse and discover at their own pace. The store operates daily, generally from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though hours may extend in the summer or during special events, so it’s always wise to check the official Chihuly Garden and Glass website before your visit.
A visit to Chihuly Garden and Glass can be made more affordable with special offers on Groupon and CityPASS. Before you buy, check the terms and conditions of the promotions and offers, as they can change depending on the season. Groupon often offers discounted tickets or packages that can save you a significant amount of money compared to the full price of admission. CityPASS offers combination tickets to several Seattle attractions, including Chihuly, allowing you to get a better price when visiting multiple attractions. Using these services not only saves you money, but also helps you avoid long lines. So, by planning your visit in advance, you can get a vivid impression and save money at the same time.
Whether you’re searching for an inspired gift, a creative project for your kids, or a beautifully crafted memento of your visit, The Bookstore at Chihuly Garden and Glass is a must-see destination in Seattle. With its vibrant mix of art, nature, and hands-on discovery, it delights visitors of all ages and brings Chihuly’s colorful vision into everyday life. Next time you’re in the area, set aside time to browse, play, and be inspired—you’ll find treasures to cherish and memories to last long after you leave the garden gates.
