Ten Things to Do at the Ballard Locks in Seattle, United States
Located in Seattle, Washington, the Ballard Locks is a unique and interesting place to visit. The locks are part of the Lake Washington Ship Canal, which links Lake Washington with Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean. The Ballard Locks provide a place to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, as well as a great spot to take in the sights and sounds of the bustling Seattle waterfront. Here are ten things to do when visiting the Ballard Locks.
1. Take a Boat Ride
One of the best ways to experience the Ballard Locks is to take a boat ride. There are several tour companies that offer boat rides through the locks, giving visitors a chance to get up close and personal with the locks and the surrounding scenery. Tours typically last about an hour and include a narrated tour of the locks and the surrounding area.
2. Watch the Salmon Migration
Every year, thousands of salmon make their way through the Ballard Locks during their annual migration. The locks are a great place to watch the salmon make their way upstream, and visitors can often spot them jumping and swimming through the locks. The best time to view the salmon migration is from mid-August through mid-October.
3. Visit the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden
The Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden is a beautiful garden located on the grounds of the Ballard Locks. The garden features a variety of native plants and trees, as well as a variety of birds and other wildlife. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the garden or join a guided tour to learn more about the plants and wildlife.
4. Visit the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, also known as the Ballard Locks, are a unique engineering feat. The locks are made up of two chambers, which allow boats to travel between Lake Washington and Puget Sound. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the locks or join a guided tour to learn more about the engineering and history of the locks.
5. Take a Tour of the Locks Museum
The Locks Museum is a great place to learn more about the history of the Ballard Locks. The museum features interactive exhibits, videos, and artifacts that tell the story of the locks. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the locks and learn about the engineering and history of the locks.
6. Visit the Hiram M. Chittenden Fish Ladder
The Hiram M. Chittenden Fish Ladder is a unique feature of the Ballard Locks. The fish ladder allows salmon to travel upstream through the locks without having to jump or swim. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the fish ladder or join a guided tour to learn more about the engineering and history of the fish ladder.
7. Watch the Boats at the Locks
The Ballard Locks are a great place to watch the boats as they travel through the locks. Visitors can watch from the observation deck or from the bridge above the locks. Boats of all sizes can be seen passing through the locks, from large cargo ships to small pleasure boats.
8. Picnic at the Locks
The Ballard Locks are a great place to enjoy a picnic. There are several picnic tables located near the locks, and visitors can bring their own food or purchase food from the nearby restaurants. The picnic tables offer a great view of the locks and the surrounding scenery.
9. Take a Walk Along the Locks
The Ballard Locks are a great place to take a walk. Visitors can walk along the locks and take in the sights and sounds of the bustling Seattle waterfront. The walk is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.
10. Shop at the Ballard Locks Market
The Ballard Locks Market is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs. The market features a variety of items, including handmade jewelry, art, and souvenirs. The market is open every day from 10am-6pm.
The Ballard Locks is a great place to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and take in the sights and sounds of the bustling Seattle waterfront. Whether you're looking for a boat ride, a picnic spot, or a place to shop, the Ballard Locks has something for everyone. So, if you're ever in the Seattle area, be sure to check out the Ballard Locks.