Seattle Ballard Locks, Gas Works Park and Houseboats Tour
Seattle, US
93% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Watch boats "lock through" and learn how the locks operate
- Visit the largest Great Blue Heron colony
- See baby salmon (smolts) heading out to sea
- Experience the unique houseboat communities along Lake Union
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Duration 3 hours
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Small Group Tour
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Expert Guide in English
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Includes bottled water
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Visit unique houseboat community
Experience the vibrant maritime history of Seattle on the Ballard Locks, Gas Works Park, and Houseboats Tour. Join this exciting walking and driving tour to witness the busiest locks in the nation, where boats "lock through" and discover the fascinating operation of the locks. In the spring, marvel at the Great Blue Heron colony and watch baby salmon as they journey to the sea. From June to September, witness the majestic adult salmon returning to navigate the fish ladder. Explore Gas Works Park, a unique waterfront park offering breathtaking views of the city, and catch a glimpse of float planes taking off and landing. Lastly, immerse yourself in the charming houseboat communities along Lake Union, a quintessential Seattle experience. Get ready for a mesmerizing journey through Seattle's rich maritime heritage and its impact on the city's development. Book now and embark on an unforgettable adventure.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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3 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore Seattle's iconic Ballard Locks and Gas Works Park on a captivating 3-hour small group tour with expert insights and stunning views.
Included
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Bottled water -
Coffee and/or tea
Meeting Point
Look for me inside the bakery with a Seattle Under the Radar Tours sign. Street parking around the meet up spot is limited to 2 hours (the tour is 3 hours) and nearby garages and lots are very expensive. Consider taking a Lyft/Uber/Taxi or public transit if possible.
2408 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121 , United States
End Point
Look for me inside the bakery with a Seattle Under the Radar Tours sign. Street parking around the meet up spot is limited to 2 hours (the tour is 3 hours) and nearby garages and lots are very expensive. Consider taking a Lyft/Uber/Taxi or public transit if possible.
2408 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98121 , United States
What to expect
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
We will explore the Locks and learn how they work, and watch ships "lock through". We will learn about their role in maintaining the level of Lake Washington and how they transformed Seattle's maritime industry. We will look for smolts (baby salmon) on the spillway heading out to sea and adult salmon coming back through the fish ladder. The resident harbor seals and herons are fat and happy this time of year!
90 minutes
Gas Works Park
This one of a kind park was an inspired creation that took a heavy industrial site and transformed it into one of Seattle's favorite parks, with fabulous views across Lake Union to downtown and the Space Needle! Along the way we will learn the history of this iconic piece of old Seattle that still survives. On our way back downtown, we will cruise by the houseboat community along Lake Union, a uniquely Seattle experience!
60 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Service animals allowed -
Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Take public transit to avoid parking fees. -
Don't miss the heron colony in late spring.
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Bring a camera for stunning city views.
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Try the nearby bakery for a quick snack.
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Look for seals near the locks during the tour.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Welcome to the Seattle Ballard Locks, Gas Works Park, and Houseboats Tour! Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through some of Seattle's most iconic and picturesque locations. This tour offers a unique blend of history, nature, and local culture, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the city's maritime industry and its fascinating transformation.What to expect?
During this tour, you can expect to witness the bustling activity at the Hiram Chittenden Locks, known as the busiest locks in the nation. Watch in awe as boats "lock through" and learn about the intricate operations that make this engineering marvel possible. Depending on the time of year, you will have the chance to observe the largest Great Blue Heron colony in the city, listen to their calls, and witness baby salmon making their journey to the sea. If you visit between mid-June and September, you'll witness the awe-inspiring sight of adult salmon navigating the fish ladder on their way back home to spawn. Continuing the adventure, you'll explore Gas Works Park, a one-of-a-kind recreational area with stunning views of the city. Marvel at float planes taking off and landing on Lake Union while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this unique park. To conclude the tour, you'll have the opportunity to experience the charm of Seattle's houseboat communities along Lake Union, a quintessential Seattle experience.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for both locals and visitors who want to delve into the rich history and natural beauty of Seattle. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply curious about the city's unique attractions, this tour offers something for everyone. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find enjoyment in exploring Seattle's iconic landmarks and hidden gems.Why book this?
By booking this tour, you'll gain exclusive access to the expert knowledge of an experienced traveler who knows all the insights of Seattle. Discover the fascinating maritime history and witness the incredible engineering behind the Hiram Chittenden Locks. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Gas Works Park, where you can witness the city's vibrant energy from a different perspective. Lastly, experience the charm of Seattle's houseboat communities, a truly authentic and captivating aspect of the city's culture. This tour guarantees a unique and enriching adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories.Good to know
It is essential to note that the tour includes bottled water, coffee, and/or tea to keep you refreshed throughout the journey. The itinerary begins at a designated meeting point, and it's recommended to look for the guide inside the bakery with a Seattle Under the Radar Tours sign. Keep in mind that street parking is limited to 2 hours, and nearby garages can be quite expensive, so consider taking a Lyft, Uber, taxi, or public transit if possible. Prepare to be captivated by the stunning sights and fascinating stories that await you on this tour.Reviews
Customers who have embarked on this tour have praised its immersive and educational nature. They were amazed by the Hiram Chittenden Locks and appreciated the opportunity to witness the Great Blue Heron colony and the salmon's incredible journey. Travelers also found Gas Works Park to be a highlight, with its breathtaking views and unique atmosphere. The experience of visiting the houseboat communities along Lake Union left visitors with a sense of awe and wonder. Overall, this tour has received rave reviews for its knowledgeable guides, well-planned itinerary, and the chance to explore some of Seattle's most iconic landmarks.
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