Ballard Locks (Hiram M. Chittenden Locks)

Free, fascinating, and beloved by locals: watch boats ride the water elevator between saltwater Puget Sound and the freshwater lakes, then see salmon climb the fish ladder through underwater glass. Add the botanical gardens and it's an easy, genuinely charming couple of hours. One of Seattle's best free outings.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How long should I plan to spend here?

One to two hours covers the locks, the fish ladder, and a stroll through the botanical garden. Add time in summer if boat traffic or salmon have you lingering at the windows.

How much does it cost to visit the Ballard Locks?

It's completely free, including the grounds, the fish ladder viewing windows, and the visitor center. Donations to the nonprofit that supports the site are welcome but never required.

Are there free guided tours?

Yes. From May 1 through September 30, free hourlong tours start at 2 p.m. They're the easiest way to actually understand what you're looking at.

When can I see the salmon at the fish ladder?

The salmon run is generally strongest from June into September, with sockeye peaking in summer. Underwater glass panels let you watch them climb, which is the highlight for a lot of visitors.

How do I get to the Ballard Locks without a car?

Metro's RapidRide D Line or route 44 gets you to Ballard, then it's a walk to the Locks. Parking exists but fills up on sunny summer weekends, so transit or biking can be easier.

What are the hours?

The grounds are open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. year-round. The visitor center has shorter, seasonal hours, so check ahead if that's a priority.

What are the Ballard Locks and what do they do?

They're a working set of locks built in 1917 that raise and lower boats between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater Lake Union and Lake Washington. You literally watch vessels float up or down as the water level changes.

Is it worth visiting with kids?

Yes, it's a great kid stop. Watching boats rise and fall, spotting fish through the windows, and running around the gardens keeps them engaged, and it's free so there's no pressure to stay long.

Nearby in Ask Seattle

• Nordic MuseumMuseum0.47 km · 6 min walk
• BallardNeighborhood1.02 km · 13 min walk
• Discovery ParkPark1.06 km · 13 min walk
• Ballard Farmers MarketMarket1.09 km · 14 min walk
• Un BienRestaurant2.4 km · 30 min walk