If you're thinking about going, just go! Students get in for $12 (pretty steep discount). I went on a Saturday on valentines day weekend and it was very packed. I foolishly didn't make a reservation so I couldn't get in at 5:00 pm but I ended up coming back at 7:00 pm and got in without trouble. If you've never been before, go in the middle of the day so you can see the garden during sunlight but also witness all it's glory during night time (with the lit Chihuly art pieces, which will be up until May). It was a great place to take my out-of-town guest and I will definitely be going back!