Ballard Locks Seattle

Ballard Locks Visitor Center

ballardlocks.org
3.9/5
(8) · Historical landmark in Seattle, United States
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Visitor center with history exhibits and displays mostly on the second floor. A book store and gifts offers items unique to the Locks. A theater on main floor …

Reviews

Tripadvisor
3.9/5 · 8 reviews
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May 6, 2025
Free Admission. We didn't get to see any boats come through, but it was still quite interesting to learn about the history and construction of the locks. The surrounding grounds are lovely.Full review by PhlegmMaster
Jan 1, 2025
They are doing construction on one side of the locks so the one was completely dry. It was a beautiful day, the grounds have a lot of different tree species and plants.Full review by 27claudettec
Aug 7, 2024
Pros: free site; free parking; beautiful gardens; interesting (but lengthy) to watch locks fill or empty for boats to move through; salmon visible through underwater viewing windows Cons: salmon wind…Full review by egland95
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Articles

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, locally known as the Ballard Locks, is a unique and historic location in Seattle. Completed in 1917, this la…
cityseeker.com

Frequently asked questions

Q:
How do i take a tour of the locks?
A:
Bottled water is sold in the Visitor Center. Picnic lunches are allowed and there are a number of local eating places and sources for takeaway food.
A:
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Highlights

Tips

Best time to see adult Salmon pass is from June to October
triphobo.com
Dogs on leash are allowed
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You can view fish-ladder activity through underwater glass panels, stroll through botanical gardens and visit a small museum
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The locks are open to vessel traffic 24 hours a day
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Glass panels below the water line make it possible to watch the fish as they swim through the ladder
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Watch the boats pass through the locks or catch a glimpse of the salmon
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Follow it with a walk through the botanical gardens and a view of the fish ladder during salmon season
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Watch salmons and sea lions from the underwater tank
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The viewing area does remain all-year round but the best time to view is the spawning season
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Watch as boats load in, tie down, and go up or down as the water level adjusts
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The location also hosts an unusual fish ladder that connects salt and fresh water for the local migrating pacific salmon
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Note that while recreational kayaks and canoes are allowed through the locks, standup paddleboards are not
rootsrated.com
There's also a fish ladder that allows salmon and other fish to make their way upstream to their spawning beds June through October
afar.com
Head over to this place to watch a parade of sailboats, motorboats, tugs, barges and yachts
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If you want to glide through the locks yourself, take the locks tour offered daily by argosy cruises
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The ship enters into the lock and waits for the water to rise before being let out on the other side
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