Explore the Serenity of Ballard Locks: Nature Meets History
Discover the enchanting blend of nature and engineering at Ballard Locks, a must-visit tourist attraction in Seattle's scenic Ballard neighborhood.
Ballard Locks, also known as Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, is a captivating destination in Seattle that seamlessly blends nature and history. Visitors can enjoy stunning gardens, observe the fascinating fish ladder, and learn about the locks' historical significance.
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 to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
- Check the salmon run timings for the best chance to see the fish navigating the fish ladder.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens or along the water for a relaxing break.
- Don't miss the visitor center, which has engaging exhibits about the locks and local marine life.
- Explore nearby attractions in Ballard, including charming shops and cafes after your visit.
Getting There
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Public Transit
From anywhere in Kent, head to the nearest bus stop and catch the Sound Transit bus route 586 towards Seattle. Make sure to check the schedule as buses may run less frequently during weekends. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the 'Westlake Station' stop in downtown Seattle. From there, transfer to the Link Light Rail and take it towards Northgate. After about 15 minutes, get off at the 'University of Washington' station. Then, you will need to catch the Metro bus route 44 towards Ballard. Ride for about 20 minutes and disembark at the '54th St & 30th Ave NW' stop. Finally, walk about 5 minutes northwest on 54th St, and you will reach the Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks at 3015 NW 54th St.
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Bicycle
If you are comfortable riding a bicycle, you can rent one from a nearby bike-share program in Kent. Start by heading towards the Green River Trail, which is a scenic bike path. Follow the trail north until you reach the junction with the Interurban Trail. Continue on the Interurban Trail until you reach Seattle. Once in Seattle, navigate towards Ballard, keeping an eye out for signs that direct you to the Ballard Locks area. The total ride should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your speed and stops along the way.
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Walking
Walking directly from Kent to Seattle is quite a distance, but if you are up for a long walk, you can follow the Green River Trail north until you reach the city limits of Seattle. From there, continue walking towards Ballard. It might take you several hours to reach the Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated. This route will take you through various parks and neighborhoods, making it a scenic but lengthy journey.
Discover more about Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks
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