Seattle is full of iconic sights—the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, those dreamy Mount Rainier views—but if you’re in the mood for something totally unique and tucked away from the tourist crowds, let me put you on to a seriously underrated gem: Dale Chihuly’s Boathouse on Lake Union. Now, this isn’t your typical attraction. You can’t exactly walk in, grab a tour brochure, and stroll around snapping pics. The Boathouse is private—Chihuly’s personal studio and residence—but even from the outside, this place radiates creative energy. Located at 2500 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, it’s nestled right on the edge of Lake Union, where the city slows down and the water views steal the show.

So why care about this mysterious Boathouse? Well, Dale Chihuly is kind of a big deal. He’s not just an artist—he’s the glass artist. His larger-than-life installations are featured around the world, from the Bellagio in Vegas to exhibitions in London and Tokyo. But Seattle is where it all began. This is home base, and even if you’re only catching a glimpse of his space from the outside, you’re witnessing where the magic happens. The building itself is sleek, stylish, and incredibly cool—think industrial elegance with black metal accents, massive glass windows, and just enough greenery to keep things grounded. You might not be able to step inside, but the whole vibe of the exterior makes you feel like you’re close to something incredibly special.

Now here’s the play—grab a drink or snack at a nearby spot like Canal Coffee Co or Viva Coffee House, and take a walk along Westlake Avenue North. The street runs right along Lake Union, and it’s packed with beautiful views, local businesses, and that chilled-out Seattle vibe we all secretly (or not so secretly) love. On any given day, you’ll see sailboats drifting past, seaplanes touching down on the water, and locals enjoying the peacefulness of the lakefront. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot one of Chihuly’s colorful glass pieces peeking through a window or tucked into a corner outside the Boathouse.

The area around the Boathouse is just as worthy of exploration. You’re super close to Lake Union Park, home to the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), where you can geek out over Seattle’s tech innovations and rich maritime past. And if you’re in the mood for more outdoor goodness, head over to Gas Works Park—it’s only a short drive or paddle away and offers some of the best panoramic views of downtown Seattle you’ll ever see. Whether you’re snapping artsy pics for your Instagram feed, soaking up the serenity of the lake, or just soaking in the artistic energy of this one-of-a-kind spot, there’s something totally inspiring about being near Dale Chihuly’s creative space.

So if you’re planning a Seattle adventure and want to do it right, don’t forget to set aside a little time to explore Lake Union and catch a view of the Boathouse. It’s not flashy, it’s not crowded, and that’s exactly what makes it so special. It’s a peaceful, beautiful reminder of how art and nature can exist in perfect harmony—and it’s 100% worth the detour.

And hey, if you’re not local and need a ride to get around and see it all, The Boom Enterprise has you covered. Whether you’re in town for a weekend or a longer Pacific Northwest road trip, they’ll hook you up with a smooth, reliable ride that makes exploring Seattle a breeze. Book your car today by clicking here or give them a call at +1 425-475-1151. Don’t just visit Seattle—experience it, glass and all.