Private Docent-Led Tours
Guided tours are available by reservation for groups of ten or more people and must be reserved a minimum of ten business days in advance. Tours range in duration from thirty to ninety minutes, depending on the type of tour and viewing preferences of your group. Museum docents (tour guides) are specifically trained to provide an enriching and in-depth exploration of the exhibitions and the museum.
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Tour the Museum Highlights
Introductions to the architecture of the building and the exhibitions currently on view will give your group an understanding of Tacoma Art Museum’s dynamically paired exhibitions and ensure that you get a little taste of everything on your next museum visit. Explore an Exhibition
Take a detailed look at a single exhibition with a knowledgeable and friendly docent. This focused tour will allow you to explore an artist, medium, or theme in more depth. | | 
Photo by E. Sierra-Arruffat |
Chihuly Walking Tour
Dale Chihuly is internationally renowned for his work in glass and is celebrated for massive glass installations. Learn more about the artist, his connection to Tacoma, and the evolution of his work on this guided tour through downtown Tacoma. Gain a broad view of the artist’s career when experiencing his works on permanent display at Tacoma Art Museum, Union Station, and the Chihuly Bridge of Glass.
Explore the Building
In May 2003, Tacoma Art Museum moved into its permanent home at 1701 Pacific Avenue. A building tour will give you a detailed look at the history and context that contributed to the building’s conception and realization. Learn more about architect Antoine Predock, 2006 AIA Gold Medal winner, and Richard Rhodes' stone wave.
Public Docent-Led Tours
Groups of nine or fewer are welcome to take advantage of public tours, which are free with museum admission. Please check with the front desk for availability of a docent to request a tour. Docents are typically available between 11 am and 3 pm daily. Public tours explore a featured exhibition and/or provide introductions to the building’s architecture and collection of Chihuly glass.
Public Chihuly Walking Tours
Public Chihuly Walking Tours are available between 11 am and 2 pm most days. Please call 253.272.4258 x3026 or email tours@TacomaArtMuseum.org for upcoming availability.
Chihuly Glass CellPhone Walking Tour
Enjoy a free, self-guided audio tour about Dale Chihuly’s glass installations in Tacoma’s Museum District by calling 888.411.4220. The Ear for Art: Chihuly Glass CellPhone Walking Tour is the first tour of its kind in the state of Washington. Available at no cost any time, day or night, the CellPhone Walking Tour give you an opportunity to learn about Chihuly's installations instantly. All you need is a cell phone. Download a map (PDF) to be sure you visit every location in Tacoma's Museum District.
Would you like to share your passion for art with others? Join our docent program.