The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, locally known as the Ballard Locks, is a unique and historic location in Seattle. Completed in 1917, this landmark connects the waters of Lake Washington, Lake Union and the Puget Sound. Watching the boats navigate the locks is interesting enough, but the location also hosts an unusual fish ladder that connects salt and freshwater for the local migrating Pacific Salmon. The grounds feature a visitors centre as well as the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens.
Website: ballardlocks.org
Phone: (206) 780-2500
Cross Streets: Near the intersection of NW 54th St and 30th Ave NW
Open now
- Fri 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
3015 NW 54th St Seattle, WA 98107-4213 ·2278.28 mi
Is this your business? Verify your listing
Amenities
- Accessible
- Family friendly
Reviews
tripadvisor
For me, this was an unbelievable surprise- watched boats come through the locks, tons of wildlife, great views, nice walking - loved it!
MoreMany years ago, my dad took me and my sons here after a day at the zoo. Free fun! Watching boats enter then exit the lock after having the water level adjusted. Interesting. They also have a fish ladder to view.
MoreThis was a surprising interesting experience in visiting the locks. We happened to see a barge go thru it. There's also an underway viewing area to see fish. We saw a number of seals swimming near the dam. Worth to also walk around the botanical gardens.
MoreThe 2 highlights we wanted to see, the visitor's center and the salmon ladder, were both closed on Monday. The locks and the garden were OK but we left disappointed.
MoreIf you have never seen a lock system before it is very need to watch the boats all tie up and the water levels change. They offer free tours of the gardens, licks and fish ladder
More