Discover the Serenity of Ballard Locks
Explore the enchanting Ballard Locks in Seattle, where nature meets engineering and history unfolds in stunning gardens and fascinating exhibits.
Experience the harmonious blend of nature and engineering at Ballard Locks, where you can witness boats navigating through the locks, explore lush gardens, and learn about the area's rich maritime history.
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 in the late afternoon for optimal lighting for photography, especially near the fish ladder.
- Check the schedule for boat passages to witness the locks in action.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the botanical gardens, where seating is available.
- Don't miss the visitor center for educational exhibits about local wildlife and the engineering of the locks.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the extensive pathways around the locks and gardens.
Getting There
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Bus
From Downtown Seattle, head to the nearest bus stop and catch the Metro Transit bus number 29 or 31. If taking bus 29, board at the stop on 3rd Avenue & Pike Street. If taking bus 31, board at the stop on 3rd Avenue & Union Street. Stay on the bus for approximately 30-40 minutes. Get off at the 'Ballard Locks' stop (which is near NW 54th St). From the bus stop, walk northwest on NW 54th St for about 5 minutes until you reach the Ballard Locks at 3015 NW 54th St.
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Light Rail + Bus
Take the Link Light Rail from the University of Washington Station towards Angle Lake. Ride for about 15 minutes and get off at Westlake Station. From Westlake Station, transfer to the Metro bus number 31 or 29. Catch the bus at the stop on 4th Avenue & Pine Street. Ride the bus for approximately 30-40 minutes and disembark at the 'Ballard Locks' stop. Walk northwest on NW 54th St for about 5 minutes until you arrive at the Ballard Locks at 3015 NW 54th St.
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Ferry + Bus
If you are near the waterfront, take the Washington State Ferry from Downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island. Once you arrive at Bainbridge Island, board the Kitsap Transit bus number 90. Ride the bus towards Seattle for about 45 minutes, and get off at the 'Ballard Locks' stop. Walk northwest on NW 54th St for about 5 minutes to reach the Ballard Locks at 3015 NW 54th St.
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Walking
If you are staying in the Ballard area, you can easily walk to the Ballard Locks. From Ballard Avenue NW, head west on NW Market St, then turn right on 24th Ave NW. Continue walking north until you reach NW 54th St. Turn left on NW 54th St and walk for about 10 minutes until you arrive at 3015 NW 54th St.
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