Location: Ballard
Top Things to do in Ballard
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The 6 Best Sights & Landmarks in Ballard, Washington (WA)
In Seattle you simply can’t skip the Central Public Library – a modern architectural marvel of glass grids, unusual shapes, and a “book spiral” that climbs four stories. Stroll over to Pike Place Market to visit the original Starbucks and play catch with a fishmonger. In the heart of the city lies Chihuly Garden and Glass, which will dazzle you with its colorful and delicate works. Glide to the top of the Space Needle for panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and Puget Sound.
Restaurants in Seattle
1. Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,196 reviews
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (locally known as the Ballard Locks) is a waterway system that connects the saltwater of the Puget Sound to the fresh water of the Ship Canal, which sits about 20 feet above sea level. Boats enter the locks, the gates close and the water rises or falls to the level of the destination waterway. Watching boats pass through the locks, exploring the 7 acres of botanical gardens and looking for fish on the fish ladder is fun and free entertainment that draws locals and tourists alike.
Reviewed By kanemochi - Seattle, United States
Officially known as the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, the Ballard Locks is one of Seattle’s most popular tourist attractions, especially during the sunny months. The grounds also feature a fish ladder and the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden — one of the most beautiful park settings in Seattle. Completed in 1917, the locks link the Puget Sound with Lake Union and Lake Washington. Once boats heading towards Puget Sound are in the locks, the water level drops as much as 26 feet to bring the boats even with Puget Sound. The fresh water is exchanged with salt water. The locks are also a critical link for salmon and steelhead heading upstream to spawn. A fish ladder with 21 steps or “weirs” allows spawning fish to climb to the freshwater side. Young fish, or “smolts” then return down through the locks out to Puget Sound.
2. Edith Macefield House
3. A Salish Welcome
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By JasonHennig - Renton, United States
It's not a long walk from the Locks over to this little statue. It provides a brief snapshot of local native culture, as well as being in a fairly scenic location. The statue itself is situated in sort of a random street corner courtyard, so it doesn't have any parking of its own.
4. Marvin's Garden
5. Leif Erickson Statue
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 3 reviews
