Discover the Charm of Ballard Locks
Explore the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Seattle, a stunning blend of engineering, history, and nature in the picturesque Ballard neighborhood.
Nestled in the scenic Ballard neighborhood of Seattle, the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks is a must-visit for tourists. This iconic attraction beautifully combines nature, history, and engineering, featuring stunning botanical gardens, fascinating historical exhibits, and the incredible locks that connect the Puget Sound with Lake Washington. The serene environment, diverse wildlife, and lush gardens make it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration.
A brief summary to Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks
- 3015 NW 54th St, Seattle, Ballard, Washington, 98107, US
- +1206-780-2500
- Monday 7 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
- Thursday 7 am-9 pm
- Friday 7 am-9 pm
- Saturday 7 am-9 pm
- Sunday 7 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best light for photography.
- Don't miss the chance to see the fish ladder, especially during salmon migration season.
- Take a leisurely walk through the botanical gardens; they are particularly beautiful in spring and summer.
- Check the schedule for boat lockings to witness the fascinating process in action.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the nearby parks with stunning views of the locks.
Getting There
-
Public Transit
To get to the Ballard Locks from Federal Way, start by heading to the nearest Sound Transit bus stop. Take Sound Transit Route 586 towards Seattle. Ride the bus until you reach the Link Light Rail station at Angle Lake. Transfer to the Link Light Rail heading north towards Northgate. Get off at the University of Washington station. From there, transfer to Bus Route 44 towards Ballard. Ride the bus until you reach the 'Ballard Locks' stop. The locks will be a short walk from the bus stop.
-
Public Transit
Alternatively, you can take Sound Transit Route 586 to the Federal Way Transit Center. From there, board the Pierce Transit Route 400 towards Tacoma Dome Station. At Tacoma Dome Station, switch to the Sounder train heading to Seattle. Once in Seattle, head to the Westlake Station and transfer to the Link Light Rail. Take the Link Light Rail towards Northgate and get off at the University of Washington station. Then, catch Bus Route 44 towards Ballard, and get off at the 'Ballard Locks' stop.
-
Walking
If you are near the Federal Way Transit Center, you can also opt for a long walk. Head north on 1st Ave S, then take a left onto S 320th St. This will lead you towards the busier intersections and you can follow these streets until you reach the nearest bus stop to catch a bus towards Seattle. This option is lengthy and may take a few hours, so it's recommended to use public transport instead.
Discover more about Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Discovery Park
1.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Discovery Park in Seattle, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families alike.
Edith Macefield House
1.7 km
Explore the Edith Macefield House, a charming symbol of resilience in Seattle's West Woodland neighborhood, famous for its inspiring story and unique architecture.
Giant Sequoia
2.3 km
Experience the grandeur of the Giant Sequoia in Seattle, a historical landmark that embodies the beauty and resilience of nature.
West Point Lighthouse
2.9 km
Explore the historic West Point Lighthouse in Seattle's Discovery Park, a stunning blend of maritime heritage and natural beauty with breathtaking views.
Statue of Lenin
3.8 km
Explore the Statue of Lenin in Fremont, a unique Seattle monument surrounded by vibrant parks, art, and culture.
The Fremont Rocket
3.8 km
Discover the quirky charm of The Fremont Rocket, a unique sculpture and historical landmark in Seattle's vibrant Fremont neighborhood, perfect for photos.
Center of the Universe Signpost
3.9 km
Experience the quirky charm of the Center of the Universe Signpost in Fremont, a historical landmark celebrating creativity in Seattle.
Waiting For The Interurban
4.0 km
Explore the Waiting For The Interurban sculpture in Seattle's Fremont neighborhood, a charming tribute to the city's historical streetcar system.
Fremont Troll
4.1 km
Explore the Fremont Troll, a whimsical sculpture in Seattle that embodies local art and culture, making it a must-see tourist attraction.
Fremont Bridge
4.1 km
Explore the Fremont Bridge in Seattle, a stunning architectural marvel offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's vibrant culture.
West Queen Anne Retaining Walls (Willcox Walls)
4.5 km
Explore the historic West Queen Anne Retaining Walls, a stunning architectural marvel showcasing Seattle's rich history and breathtaking views.
Betty Bowen Viewpoint
4.6 km
Experience stunning views of Seattle's skyline and the Space Needle at Betty Bowen Viewpoint, a tranquil oasis in Queen Anne's lush landscape.
Kerry Park
4.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene ambiance of Kerry Park, a must-visit urban oasis in the heart of Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood.
Seattle Skyline View
4.9 km
Experience stunning vistas of Seattle's skyline and natural beauty at the iconic Seattle Skyline View, a must-visit scenic spot.
Gas Works Park
5.2 km
Discover the historical charm and scenic beauty of Gas Works Park, a unique urban oasis in Seattle perfect for relaxation, picnics, and stunning views of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ballard Locks Fish Ladder
0.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and engineering marvel of the Ballard Locks Fish Ladder, a unique Seattle attraction showcasing salmon migration.
Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden
0.1 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden in Seattle, a lush retreat featuring diverse plant life and peaceful landscapes.
Commodore Park
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Commodore Park, a scenic gem in Seattle perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
A Salish Welcome
0.3 km
Discover the rich heritage of the Salish people at A Salish Welcome, an iconic monument in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood celebrating indigenous culture.
National Nordic Museum
0.5 km
Explore the captivating culture and rich history of Nordic countries at the National Nordic Museum in Seattle, a must-visit tourist attraction.
The Ballard Smoke Shop
0.9 km
Experience the charm of The Ballard Smoke Shop in Seattle, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and arcade fun come together for an unforgettable outing.
Marvin's Garden
1.0 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Marvin's Garden, a serene city park in Seattle's charming Ballard neighborhood.
Ballard Farmers Market
1.0 km
Experience the best of Seattle at Ballard Farmers Market, where fresh produce and local crafts create a vibrant community atmosphere every Sunday.
Bergen Place
1.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Bergen Place, a charming city park in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, perfect for relaxation and community events.
Hattie's Hat Restaurant
1.1 km
Discover the charming Hattie's Hat Restaurant in Ballard, Seattle, where American comfort food meets a vibrant bar atmosphere, perfect for brunch and relaxation.
Tractor Tavern
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Tractor Tavern, a top bar and concert hall in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood, perfect for music lovers and nightlife seekers.
Essential places to dine
The Walrus and the Carpenter
1.3 km
Discover The Walrus and the Carpenter: Seattle's premier oyster bar offering exquisite seafood dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Copine
1.4 km
Discover Copine: A premier fine dining experience in Seattle blending New American and French cuisines with seasonal ingredients.
Chinook's At Salmon Bay
1.6 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Chinook's At Salmon Bay in Seattle with stunning waterfront views.
Brimmer & Heeltap
2.6 km
Experience the flavors of Seattle at Brimmer & Heeltap, where exceptional cuisine meets cozy bistro charm.
SWeL Restaurant
3.8 km
Discover unique artisanal pizzas in Seattle's Fremont district at SWeL Restaurant - where every bite tells a flavorful story.
Eden Hill Restaurant
4.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Eden Hill Restaurant in Queen Anne, Seattle – where innovative New American cuisine meets breathtaking views.
How To Cook A Wolf
4.3 km
Discover exquisite Italian cuisine at How To Cook A Wolf in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood - where tradition meets modern dining.
Bounty Kitchen
4.3 km
Experience the flavors of the Pacific Northwest at Bounty Kitchen, where fresh ingredients meet innovative American cuisine in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood.
Art of the Table
4.3 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine at Art of the Table in Seattle's charming Fremont neighborhood – where creativity meets flavor.
Joule
4.5 km
Experience innovative Asian fusion cuisine at Joule in Seattle's Northlake neighborhood, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
The Whale Wins
4.5 km
Discover seasonal small plates and exquisite flavors at The Whale Wins in Seattle's Northlake neighborhood.
Canlis
4.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Canlis, Seattle's iconic fine dining destination offering breathtaking views and exquisite New American cuisine.
Betty
4.7 km
Discover the flavors of New American cuisine at Betty, where fresh ingredients meet innovative cooking in Seattle's charming Queen Anne neighborhood.
5 Spot
4.8 km
Discover the flavors of America at 5 Spot in Queen Anne - where delicious breakfasts meet vibrant brunches in a cozy atmosphere.
mkt.
4.8 km
Delight in exquisite Italian cuisine at mkt., where tradition meets contemporary flair in Seattle's Wallingford neighborhood.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ballyhoo Curiosity Shop
0.9 km
Explore the eclectic and whimsical treasures at Ballyhoo Curiosity Shop, Seattle's premier destination for unique antiques and curiosities.
Monster
1.4 km
Explore Monster Boutique in Ballard, where unique fashion and creative home goods come together in a charming shopping experience.
The Uncommon Cottage
3.6 km
Explore The Uncommon Cottage, Seattle's unique gift shop offering handcrafted art, clothing, and jewelry in the heart of Fremont.
Sfingiday
3.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local art at Sfingiday in Fremont, Seattle, where creativity and charm meet for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Fremont Vintage Mall
3.9 km
Discover the charm of the past at Fremont Vintage Mall, Seattle's premier destination for antiques and vintage clothing, offering unique treasures for every taste.
Meadow
3.9 km
Explore Meadow in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood for unique gifts and local treasures that embody the spirit of the Pacific Northwest.
Willa
4.2 km
Discover Willa, the ultimate women's clothing store in Queen Anne, Seattle, offering curated fashion and personalized service.
Silver Pennies Art
4.2 km
Explore Silver Pennies Art, a hidden gem in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood, offering unique gifts and local artistry that captures the essence of the city.
Foundation Seattle
4.5 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Foundation Seattle, a boutique in Queen Anne offering curated styles that reflect Seattle's vibrant fashion scene.
The Little Store (Queen Anne)
4.6 km
Discover stylish women's clothing and unique accessories at The Little Store in Queen Anne, Seattle - a must-visit boutique for fashion enthusiasts.
The Pacific Northwest Shop
4.6 km
Explore the charm of The Pacific Northwest Shop in Seattle, your destination for unique gifts and locally crafted treasures.
Queen Anne Frame & Gift
4.6 km
Discover Seattle's artistic spirit at Queen Anne Frame & Gift, where unique treasures and quality craftsmanship await every visitor.
MILLIE
4.6 km
Explore Millie, a charming clothing boutique in Queen Anne, Seattle, offering unique fashion finds and a delightful shopping experience.
The Cura Co. Queen Anne
4.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan products at The Cura Co. Queen Anne, a charming boutique in Seattle's vibrant Queen Anne neighborhood.
Queen Anne Marketplace
5.5 km
Explore Queen Anne Marketplace: a vibrant Seattle shopping mall offering unique shops, delicious dining, and a taste of local culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rupee Bar
1.2 km
Discover the essence of Sri Lankan cuisine at Rupee Bar in Ballard, Seattle’s vibrant dining destination with authentic flavors and a warm atmosphere.
Targy's Tavern
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Targy's Tavern in Seattle's Queen Anne - a local favorite for drinks, food, and fun events.
Bar Miriam
3.9 km
Experience innovative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere at Bar Miriam, Seattle's premier cocktail bar in the heart of Queen Anne.
The Cozy Nut Tavern
4.1 km
Discover The Cozy Nut Tavern, a charming bar in Seattle's Greenwood neighborhood, offering craft drinks and a cozy atmosphere for relaxation.
Sully's
4.6 km
Experience the charm of an authentic Irish pub at Sully's in Queen Anne, Seattle, offering delicious food, a vibrant atmosphere, and a wide selection of drinks.
The Octopus Bar
4.8 km
Discover The Octopus Bar in Seattle's Wallingford neighborhood, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
The Sitting Room
5.3 km
Discover the unique blend of creative cocktails and delicious tacos at The Sitting Room, a Seattle gem in the Queen Anne neighborhood.
The Traveling Goat
5.4 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Traveling Goat, a grill and cocktail bar in Queen Anne, Seattle, known for its inviting ambiance and exquisite flavors.
The Tin Lizzie Lounge
5.4 km
Experience the best of Seattle nightlife at The Tin Lizzie Lounge, where live music meets delicious food and crafted cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Streamline Tavern
5.5 km
Experience the charm of Seattle at Streamline Tavern, a cozy pub in Queen Anne known for its craft beers and delicious comfort food.
McMenamins Queen Anne
5.6 km
Experience the vibrant brewpub culture of Seattle at McMenamins Queen Anne, where craft beers and delicious food come together in a cozy atmosphere.
Queen Anne Beerhall
5.7 km
Discover the best local brews and a lively atmosphere at Queen Anne Beerhall in Seattle, perfect for beer lovers and social gatherings.
The Mountaineering Club
6.2 km
Experience the adventurous spirit of Seattle at The Mountaineering Club, a vibrant bar featuring crafted cocktails and local brews in the University District.
Some Random Bar
6.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious fare at Some Random Bar, a must-visit gastropub in Seattle's vibrant Belltown neighborhood.
Screwdriver Bar
6.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Screwdriver Bar in Belltown, Seattle, offering a diverse drink menu and friendly service for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
