You can now take a look at some of Seattle’s most iconic venues without leaving your desk. The Space Needle debuted virtual reality (VR) tours of its event spaces, as well as those at the Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Museum of Pop Culture, for a firsthand view into events at all three.
With the Space Needle 360° app and VR headsets planners can not only see the available meeting and event spaces, but also the option of scouting an actual setup. The VR tours place users in the midst of an event as if they were there in person, showcasing the possibilities for transforming the spaces without the time and expense of traveling for a site visit.
One of these events that was filmed for the Space Needle 360° app is the Ultimate Block Party, a partnership between the Museum of Pop and Culture, Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Space Needle. This type of all-encompassing event takes advantage of using all three venues and the public space connecting each.
“Traditionally, it has been challenging for clients to envision what a multi-venue party with thousands of attendees can be. The VR tour allows event planners to be immersed in the experience of the event,” explained Kathy Gerke, director of sales at the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass.
Location, notoriety as a top Seattle attraction and available private event space are about the only things the three venues have in common. The SkyLine level, the Space Needle’s meeting and banquet space, is set 100 feet above ground for panoramic views of Seattle and the surrounding mountains. The Museum of Pop and Culture (formerly the Experience Music Project Museum) was designed by Frank O. Gehry and its unusual architecture creates unique interior spaces. The Chihuly Garden and Glass celebrates renowned Northwest artist Dale Chihuly and his work. The centerpiece is the Glasshouse, a 40-foot-tall glass and steel structure housing a 100-foot long sculpture, one of Chihuly’s largest suspended pieces.