If you’re looking for a day trip that will dazzle you, head for Columbus, Ohio, to the Franklin Park Conservatory for Chihuly at the Conservatory. This exhibition of amazing creations by contemporary glass artist Dale Chihuly is guaranteed to brighten up even the gloomiest day. On display until March 21, the fanciful, vibrant glass sculptures are mixed in with the plant collections. You can enjoy a stroll through a delightful botanical garden in indoor comfort while admiring Chihuly’s magical creations. The element of surprise is part of the fun, since you never know what you will find around the next corner.

Chihuly, born in Tacoma, Wash., has become world renowned, with his work included in the collections of over 200 museums around the globe. This highly creative artist is noted for his brilliant colors often found in surprising combinations. The recipient of seven honorary doctorates, Chihuly is often credited with elevating glassmaking to a new art form. He works with a large team of glassblowers, which enables him to create huge exhibitions. His first large-scale architectural installation was Chihuly over Venice, done in 1995. More than 1 million visitors viewed Chihuly in the Light of Jerusalem in 1999.

The glass sculptures now on display in Columbus were designed specifically for the Franklin Park Conservatory, with a goal of enhancing the natural environment. Some actually blend in with the vegetation so well that they could almost be mistaken for living plants. Others, such as the spectacular sunset tower, provide a dramatic focal point for a garden room. From the ceiling hang fabulous sculptures that Chihuly calls chandeliers. Brilliantly colored glass balls float in a pond filled with Koi fish, and lavender glass tubes – called neodymium reeds – intermingle with cacti. Thus as you tour the conservatory, you must remember to look in every direction for visual delights.

Chihuly at the Conservatory is perfect for all ages. Children love Chihuly. The vibrant colors and fanciful designs fascinate them and stimulate their imagination. Our four granddaughters, ages three to eleven, have been to two Chihuly exhibitions and have thoroughly enjoyed both. Nearly everything in the beautiful 100-year-old Victorian building at Franklin Park is wheelchair accessible. A small café offers an outstanding selection of salads, soup and sandwiches at reasonable prices.

Franklin Park Conservatory is open Tuesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours on Wednesdays for the exhibition, during which time it is open until 8 p.m. Admission is $6.50 for adults, $5 for students and seniors 60 and over, and $3.50 for children 2-12.

Niijima FLoats, 2003.