The Hiram M. Chittenden “Ballard” Locks – a feat of engineering built in 1917, dramatically transformed Ballard’s southern waterfront. The Ballard Locks boast the title of the busiest locking system in the United States. As it did more than a century ago, the Ballard Locks continue to allow leisure boats and commercial vessels to travel between the fresh waters of Lake Union and the salty Puget Sound.

This complex of locks has become an attractive destination for tourists and a favorite amongst locals.

In addition to its practical function demonstrating its engineering might, the Ballard Locks’ grounds offer scenic walking paths, a fish ladder with an indoor salmon education center, and frequent community events that add to its vibrant atmosphere. Just down the street from Ballard’s core and the National Nordic Museum, the Locks serves as a window into the region’s maritime culture and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for families, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.

Sea birds soar overhead, seals feast on salmon, herons observe their next meal from the sidelines and the Fish Ladder helps several species of salmon make their way upstream to spawn. Salmon and steelhead begin the last leg of their thousand-mile journey to spawn upriver at the Ballard Locks Fish Ladder. Visitors may view the salmon making their way up the ladder inside the newly remodeled Fish Ladder Viewing Room and Salmon Education Center.