Tacoma takes off: with a stunning new glass museum, Seattle's sister city launches into the future - Travel

Sunset, Nov, 2002 by Steven R. Lorton

Which, in a word, is plenty.

RELATED ARTICLE: Gift-shopping for glass

Because public accessibility to the art glass scene in Tacoma is relatively new, dent expect galleries filled with glass to be lining the streets--at least, not yet. Here are four places to look for Quality glass art at good prices.

Bonnie Burns Glass Blowing Studio and Gallery. Glass artist Bonnie Burns sells her work from her studio. By appointment only. 1334 S. Fawcett Ave.; (253) 627-6556.

Hilltop Artists in Residence. This thriving glass-blowing program for at-risk youth is indicative of the emerging glass scene in Tacoma. Dale Chihuly and Tacoma Public Schools are both major sponsors. On school days, glass can be purchased at the Jason Lee Middle School Hot Shop. 602 N. Sprague St.; (253) 571-7670 (call before visiting).

Museum Store. The museum's gift shop is filled with excellent and affordable pieces of glass art, from hand-blown goblets and bowls to jewelry. Museum of Glass, ground floor; 1801 E. Dock St.; (866) 468-7386 or www.museumofglass.org

Off Hand Glassworks. Artist Jenifer Holmes blows glass and sells from her studio. By appointment only. 7 Beach Lane SW, Lakewood; (253) 984-7872.

* Attractions

Museum of Glass: International Center for Contemporary Art. Public parking under museum. Closed Mon. 1801 E. Dock St.; (866) 468-7386 or www.museumofglass. org

University of Washington, Tacoma. Campus is open for walking all hours; building hours vary. 1900 Pacific Ave.; (253) 692-4000 or www.tacoma.washington.edu

U.S. Federal Courthouse. Nine installations of Chihuly glass. You must show identification to enter the building. Mon-Fri 8-5. 1717 Pacific Ave. (in Union Station); (253) 572-9310.

Washington State History Museum. Closed Mon. 1911 Pacific Ave.; (888) 238-4373 or www.wshs.org

* Dining

Harmon Brewery & Restaurant. Good burgers and beers in a boisterous atmosphere. 1938 Pacific Ave.; (253) 383-2739 or www.harmonbrew.com

The Melting Pot. Fondue is back, and it's never been better. Cook your own entrees and desserts in a bubbling pot delivered to your table. 2121 Pacific Ave., (253) 535-3939 or www.meltingpotnw.com

Stanley & Seafort's. Great views out and over the city to Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Excellent steak and fresh seafood, and an outrageous list of desserts. 115 E. 34th St.; (253) 473-7300.

* Lodging

La Quinta Inn & Conference Center. Close to the Tacoma Dome. From $80. 1425 E. 27th St.; (253) 383-0146 or www.laquinta.com

Sheraton Tacoma Hotel. In the heart of downtown. From $99. 1320 Broadway Plaza; (253) 572-3200 or www.sheratontacoma.com

Silver Cloud Inn--Tacoma. Opened in March 2002. All rooms have views of the water. From $119. 2317 N. Ruston Way; (253) 272-1300 or www.silvercloud.com