Chittenden Locks & Carl English Botanical Gardens
Type: Attractions, Gardens, Tours and Excursions
10Best Says
Originally built in 1911, these locks offer a fascinating lesson in technology from days gone by. Observe ships and sailing vessels as they enter the Ballard locks and â" following a series of... Read More
Originally built in 1911, these locks offer a fascinating lesson in technology from days gone by. Observe ships and sailing vessels as they enter the Ballard locks and â" following a series of mechanical adjustments â" depart into either the sound or the lake at a completely different water level. You can learn all about the locks' history in the visitor center; from March to November, guided tours are also offered. In addition, visitors may look through a viewing glass to see salmon run from fresh to salt water in season (June through October and March through April). Also, be sure not to miss the seven-acre Carl English Botanical Gardens, which present nearly 2,000 varieties of plant life.
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Hours:
- Gardens: Daily 7am-9pm
- Visitor's Center & Gift Shop (Oct - Apr): Thu-Mon 10am-4pm
- Visitor's Center & Gift Shop (May - Sep): Daily 10am-6pm
Admissions:
- Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Corinne Whiting
Seattle Local Expert
- Things to Do with Kids, Outdoor Activities, Sightseeing: "Don't miss seeing the salmon run the fish ladder in certain seasons (June through October and March through April)."
- Free Things to Do: "Don't miss seeing the salmon run the fish ladder in certain seasons (June through October and March through April). After visiting the Locks, grab lunch at nearby Ray's Boathouse or wander the sands of Golden Gardens beach."
- Best for Things to Do with Kids Because: The Chittenden Locks captivate spectators of all ages; watch the boats rise and fall as they make their way to new bodies of water.
- Best for Outdoor Activities Because: Built in 1911, these locks offer a fascinating lesson in technology. Watch a variety of boats pass through; see salmon run in certain months, too.
- Best for Free Things to Do Because: The Chittenden Locks are a great, free attraction that the whole family will love. Watch boats move through the locks, and wander the beautiful gardens.
- Best for Sightseeing Because: The Chittenden Locks & Carl English Botanical Gardens showcase Ballard's manmade wonder. Watch boats pass through the canal.
