Ballard Locks
Seattle, WA 98107
Phone: (206) 783-7059
- Cross Street:
- 30th Avenue NW
Editorial Review for Ballard Locks – by Citysearch Editors
The Experience
Pass a sunny day watching boats of all shapes and sizes come into the locks separating Puget Sound from the fresh waters of Salmon Bay. Those seeking relaxation anchor themselves to blankets and lawn chairs, while the adventurous head to the fish ladder. This underwater viewing gallery makes it possible to view salmon navigating their way back to their spawning grounds. Occasionally, a clever sea lion will hang out, waiting for his next meal.
Facts
For the historically-minded, the locks' official name is the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks and they were built in 1911 so that coal and timber could be easily transported by boat.
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Insider Tips
When to GoBoats come and go year-round, but to see the fish ladder in action, avoid November through February and the month of May, when the salmon aren't running.
The ExtrasThe Visitor Center at the locks features displays about its history and operation.
Know Before You GoWhile there, check out the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens.
User Reviews for Ballard Locks
07/20/2008 Posted by gakester8
I recently went there with my parents and we enjoyed watching the locks open/close, fill/empty and see the seagulls in action, eating. Be prepared for the stench when you walk over from the locks to the salmon ladder. We did see salmon in one ladder, but never saw one switch from one ladder to the next. The free visitor's center has a small amount of interesting exhibits (the hands-on ones all seemed broken), a small gift shop, and a short film.They offer free, guided tours, but we did not take one. If you park on the Ballard side of the locks you have to walk partially through the Botanical Gardens/park to get to the locks. The park was not crowded and it would be a good spot to have a picnic.
Pros: lots of different things to see (locks, ladder, park, visitor's center)
Cons: not easy for people who have a hard time walking far.
11/19/2006 Posted by kee22
I have to admit, I was pretty skeptical before I went...it just sounded like some dumb locks that salmon jump...but it is worth the trip. It is a lot more interesting than what I thought. The visiting center is nice...and the area is beautiful. It's definately worth the trip..especially if you are a tourist.
Pros: Great tourist spot, better than expected
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