Ballard – Seattle Excursion

Downtown Pier 91 to Ballard Aeral_sans POS logo1
BA_8-21-24_0594-Enhanced-NR no stp

Spend an afternoon or the whole day with us in the charming Seattle neighborhood of Ballard.

Just minutes north of both Port of Seattle cruise terminals and downtown, Ballard offers visitors the chance to experience an authentic Seattle neighborhood. Escape the hustle and bustle of tourist hot spots and leisurely explore our cultural attractions, shopping and dining at your own pace.

VELKOMMEN! The neighborhood retains its historical charm as a “Scandinavian fishing village” while offering modern amenities that cater to savvy travelers. Enjoy flavors from James Beard Award-winning chefs, unique Pacific Northwest gifts at boutique shops, the National Nordic Museum, and the iconic Hiram M. Chittenden “Ballard” Locks all in one short trip.

Check out our Visitors Map & Guide to find the best restaurants, places to shop and cultural destinations to explore in our cozy Seattle neighborhood!

BA-07-30-24_0302

SHOP, DINE & PLAY IN AN AUTHENTIC Seattle neighborhood

Ballard is set uniquely apart through its historic architecture, maritime influence, and Scandinavian heritage. Situated along a picturesque waterfront, Ballard boasts a thriving shopping and dining district that balances historic charm with modern sophistication. Come explore a diverse array of locally owned shops and restaurants in a vibrant neighborhood setting. Take a stroll down historic Ballard Avenue or window shop along Market Street to discover unique boutique stores brimming with charm and character.

Find a vast array of cuisine and a unique collection of bars and entertainment venues. Ballard’s culinary scene is one to be savored. Home to James Beard Award-winning chefs, the neighborhood offers elevated cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, innovative farm-to-table dishes, or international fare, Ballard’s diverse range of restaurants ensures there’s something to satisfy every palate.

NNM for Port Webpage

NORDIC CULTURE ON A NATIONAL SCALE

For those interested in exploring Ballard’s cultural heritage, the National Nordic Museum is a must-visit. Celebrating the history and culture of the Nordic countries, the museum offers fascinating exhibitions and events.

The National Nordic Museum is the only museum of its size and scale in the U.S. that represents the history and culture of the Nordic region. Immerse yourself in the unique Nordic cultures that helped shape Ballard into a “Scandinavian fishing village”. The museum also boasts Freya Cafe and a gift shop.

Ballard Locls Adobe Stock

MARVEL AT THE BALLARD LOCKS

Spend the afternoon at the famous Hiram M. Chittenden “Ballard” Locks – a feat of engineering built in 1917, relax in the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens, witness the locks in action as a variety of boats make their way to and from Lake Union to the Puget Sound, and watch the salmon make their way up the Fish Ladder traveling home to spawn from a life in the ocean.

Be sure to grab a bite to eat or refreshments from the famous Lockspot Cafe. (Ballard is homeport for many of the Deadliest Catch fishing vessels – “After the Catch” was filmed here.)

Come discover why there is ‘More to Sea’ in Ballard.

Shilshole marina with serpent sunset pink

Stunning waterfront views from Shilshole Bay Marina

Just down the road from the shops and restaurants, is the Port of Seattle’s Shilshole Bay Marina. Stroll the waterfront all the way down to Golden Gardens Beach, grab a bite to eat at a cafe or restaurant along the way, book a sunset sail charter and take in the stunning views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains.

This is the perfect place to relax, unwind and recharge before our after your cruise. This is excursion awaits visitors who are not quite ready to say goodbye to the water and want enjoy it in a quiet laid back setting.

1000023315

LIVE LIKE A LOCAL IN LUXURY

We invite you to make Ballard your home for a night or two. With so much to do and see, you can relax and vacation at your own pace. No rushing or battling crowds – just soak in the chill neighborhood vibes.

Nestled in the Ballard Avenue Historic District are two places to unwind and make the most out of your trip: the Ballard Inn and the Hotel Ballard.

Spoil yourself at the boutique Ballard Hotel & Spa and be steps from all the best shopping and dining the neighborhood offers. Rest up before your cruise or take a vacation from your vacation in our cozy corner of Seattle.

Ballard is nestled between waterways and residential neighborhoods, truly live like a local and stay in one of the neighborhood’s vacation rentals. Pass by neighborhood gardens, down the wide sidewalks on tree-lined streets to the many shops and local restaurants throughout the neighborhood.

Thank you POS Web graphic