Discover the Wonders of the Ballard Locks
Experience the iconic Ballard Locks in Seattle, where engineering marvel meets natural beauty amidst lush gardens and historic charm.
The Ballard Locks, officially known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, are a marvel of engineering and a beautiful tourist attraction in Seattle. Visitors can watch boats pass between the freshwater of Lake Washington and the saltwater of Puget Sound, while exploring lush gardens and learning about the locks' rich history. It's a must-see destination for any traveler.
A brief summary to Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks
- 3015 NW 54th St, Seattle, Ballard, Washington, 98107, US
- +1206-780-2500
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and to see the locks in action without the crowds.
- Don't miss the fish ladder, where you can observe salmon swimming upstream during the spawning season.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch in the beautiful gardens surrounding the locks for a memorable meal with a view.
- Check the schedule for boat traffic to time your visit and see larger vessels navigating the locks.
- Dress in layers as the weather can change quickly near the water, and be prepared for potential breezes.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to the Ballard Locks, start by entering your GPS coordinates or the address: 3015 NW 54th St, Seattle, WA 98107. Depending on your starting point in Puget Sound, you may take major highways like I-5 or WA-520 to reach Seattle. Exit onto NW 54th St and follow the signs towards the locks. There is a parking lot available on-site, but be aware that parking may incur a fee.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
To reach the Ballard Locks using public transportation, locate the nearest bus stop and take Metro Transit bus routes 17 or 18. You can catch these buses from various locations in Seattle. Get off at the NW 54th St & 30th Ave NW stop, which is about a 5-minute walk from the locks. Make sure to check the King County Metro website for the latest schedules and routes. A one-way fare is approximately $2.75, and you can pay using an ORCA card or cash.
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Public Transportation (Light Rail + Bus)
If you are near a light rail station, take the Link Light Rail to the University of Washington Station. From there, transfer to Metro Transit bus route 31 or 32 towards Ballard. Get off at the NW 54th St & 30th Ave NW stop. The total fare for this journey will be approximately $2.75, and you can use an ORCA card for convenience.
Discover more about Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks
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