Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see
What to Expect
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see Seattle from the water. Take in the fresh air and beautiful colors. You may even spot a whale or porpoise! Refreshments and adult beverages are available onboard.
Argosy vessels are also available for group charters, parties, and weddings. Check out the website for full details and online booking.
Open daily. We are located on Post Alley & Union (about 300ft down from the gum wall). Google maps may take you to 1st & Union instead.
What to Expect
Open daily. We are located on Post Alley & Union (about 300ft down from the gum wall). Google maps may take you to 1st & Union instead. Just take the staircase down to Post Alley. Check out our exhibits, hours and prices at https://seattleselfiemuseum.com
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located
What to Expect
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located in the same building as Anthony’s Pier 66 and Anthony’s Fish Bar. The views and service are top notch.
We invite you to come and experience the benefits of Ren Xue Qigong for yourself in a supportive and welcoming environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to rejuvenate your mind, body,
What to Expect
We invite you to come and experience the benefits of Ren Xue Qigong for yourself in a supportive and welcoming environment. Don’t miss this opportunity to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this class is suitable for all levels.
Attendees must read and agree to a waiver in order to participate in this activity. You may do this virtually via the Eventbrite class listing. Register in advance and learn more at waterfrontparkseattle.org.
Friends of Waterfront Seattle (“Friends”) is the nonprofit partner to the City of Seattle responsible for helping to fund, build, steward, and program Waterfront Park — today and into the future. The first piece of the park — Pier 62 — is now open.
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea
What to Expect
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea Tours on Pier 57. Boats depart all day. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at https://www.salishseatours.com. Boas can be booked also for groups and corporate offsite events.
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily.
What to Expect
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily. Available also for corporate offsite meetings and team-building. Popular with locals and visitors alike. See Seattle in style and from another perspective. You will not regret it! Sunset sails are the most popular. Reserve at: https://sailingseattle.com/
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful,
What to Expect
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful, fun, and unique. If you have never sailed aboard a tall ship, then this is your opportunity. Book ahead at https://seattlesailingship.com or drop by the ticket booth right next to Anthony’s Fish Bar at Pier 66. You will not be disappointed! Bring your own beverages and food – cooler aboard.
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of
What to Expect
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of Seattle, the ferries, stadiums, West Seattle, and beyond.
Did you know that you can do a corporate takeover of the entire pier for groups and teams of over 400 people? It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion and bring people together. You can even request a special light show on the wheel as part of the deal!
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see
What to Expect
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see Seattle from the water. Take in the fresh air and beautiful colors. You may even spot a whale or porpoise! Refreshments and adult beverages are available onboard.
Argosy vessels are also available for group charters, parties, and weddings. Check out the website for full details and online booking.
Watch the boats, fish, and flowers along one remarkable, man-made waterway. Ballard Locks are a perfect destination for family and friends visiting from out of town.
What to Expect
Watch the boats, fish, and flowers along one remarkable, man-made waterway. Ballard Locks are a perfect destination for family and friends visiting from out of town. Head to historic Ballard Avenue afterwards for a mind-boggling number of restaurant options.
The Ballard Locks were built over 100 years ago. At the time, it was the second largest cut of its kind in the world, second only to the Panama Canal. Without these locks and canal, Lake Washington and Lake Union would be disconnected from the Puget Sound for boat traffic. Although locks and canals are common in parts of Europe, the Ballard Locks stand alone on the west coast for their scale. There is a park, fish ladder, and botanical garden on the large federal property.
If you have never seen the locks from the water, then you can actually go through the locks on a local cruise boat. It is great fun and a totally different perspective. See: Argosy Cruises (WA residents, check for local resident discount).
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located
What to Expect
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located in the same building as Anthony’s Pier 66 and Anthony’s Fish Bar. The views and service are top notch.
Italian food tastes even better above the waters of Elliott Bay! Salt District Italian Kitchen (part of Seattle’s own E3 Restaurant Group) features an APERITIVO (Happy) HOUR
What to Expect
Italian food tastes even better above the waters of Elliott Bay! Salt District Italian Kitchen (part of Seattle’s own E3 Restaurant Group) features an APERITIVO (Happy) HOUR from 3-6pm Tuesday through Saturday on Pier 55! Enjoy authentic Italian bites like meatballs alla forno, bruschetta, cured sardine tins, refreshing cocktails, selections of beer, wine, Aperol Spritz, and more.
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea
What to Expect
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea Tours on Pier 57. Boats depart all day. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at https://www.salishseatours.com. Boas can be booked also for groups and corporate offsite events.
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily.
What to Expect
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily. Available also for corporate offsite meetings and team-building. Popular with locals and visitors alike. See Seattle in style and from another perspective. You will not regret it! Sunset sails are the most popular. Reserve at: https://sailingseattle.com/
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful,
What to Expect
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful, fun, and unique. If you have never sailed aboard a tall ship, then this is your opportunity. Book ahead at https://seattlesailingship.com or drop by the ticket booth right next to Anthony’s Fish Bar at Pier 66. You will not be disappointed! Bring your own beverages and food – cooler aboard.
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of
What to Expect
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of Seattle, the ferries, stadiums, West Seattle, and beyond.
Did you know that you can do a corporate takeover of the entire pier for groups and teams of over 400 people? It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion and bring people together. You can even request a special light show on the wheel as part of the deal!
No team makes women’s basketball more fun or exciting than the Seattle Storm! Each home game has its own special theme. Don’t be
What to Expect
No team makes women’s basketball more fun or exciting than the Seattle Storm! Each home game has its own special theme. Don’t be surprised if a massive conga line breaks out at any moment. The Storm have qualified for the WNBA Playoffs in sixteen of its twenty-one years in Seattle. The Storm are four-time WNBA Champions, with victories in 2004, 2010, 2018, and 2020. Tickets available starting around $35.
The team cultivates a fan-friendly, family environment at home games by having an all-kid dance squad, which leads young fans in a conga line on the court during time-outs, to the music of “C’mon N’ Ride It (The Train)” by the Quad City DJ’s. Named for the rainy weather of Seattle, the team uses many weather-related icons: the team mascot is Doppler, a maroon-furred creature with a cup anemometer on its head; the theme song for Storm home games is AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck”; and its newsletter is called Stormwatch.
Did you know that the US Coast Guard has a museum at Pier 36? It’s a precious gem for anyone with an interest in the service, boats,
What to Expect
Did you know that the US Coast Guard has a museum at Pier 36? It’s a precious gem for anyone with an interest in the service, boats, or the maritime industry. Here you will find the world’s biggest collection of USCG badges, many available for sale. The models, stories, photos, and items found here represent a rich NW maritime tradition. Have fun! There is no charge for entrance. The public and service members are welcome. Call ahead to confirm opening hours and protocols (206) 217-6993
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see
What to Expect
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see Seattle from the water. Take in the fresh air and beautiful colors. You may even spot a whale or porpoise! Refreshments and adult beverages are available onboard.
Argosy vessels are also available for group charters, parties, and weddings. Check out the website for full details and online booking.
Open daily. We are located on Post Alley & Union (about 300ft down from the gum wall). Google maps may take you to 1st & Union instead.
What to Expect
Open daily. We are located on Post Alley & Union (about 300ft down from the gum wall). Google maps may take you to 1st & Union instead. Just take the staircase down to Post Alley. Check out our exhibits, hours and prices at https://seattleselfiemuseum.com
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located
What to Expect
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located in the same building as Anthony’s Pier 66 and Anthony’s Fish Bar. The views and service are top notch.
Italian food tastes even better above the waters of Elliott Bay! Salt District Italian Kitchen (part of Seattle’s own E3 Restaurant Group) features an APERITIVO (Happy) HOUR
What to Expect
Italian food tastes even better above the waters of Elliott Bay! Salt District Italian Kitchen (part of Seattle’s own E3 Restaurant Group) features an APERITIVO (Happy) HOUR from 3-6pm Tuesday through Saturday on Pier 55! Enjoy authentic Italian bites like meatballs alla forno, bruschetta, cured sardine tins, refreshing cocktails, selections of beer, wine, Aperol Spritz, and more.
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful,
What to Expect
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful, fun, and unique. If you have never sailed aboard a tall ship, then this is your opportunity. Book ahead at https://seattlesailingship.com or drop by the ticket booth right next to Anthony’s Fish Bar at Pier 66. You will not be disappointed! Bring your own beverages and food – cooler aboard.
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea
What to Expect
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea Tours on Pier 57. Boats depart all day. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at https://www.salishseatours.com. Boas can be booked also for groups and corporate offsite events.
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of
What to Expect
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of Seattle, the ferries, stadiums, West Seattle, and beyond.
Did you know that you can do a corporate takeover of the entire pier for groups and teams of over 400 people? It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion and bring people together. You can even request a special light show on the wheel as part of the deal!
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily.
What to Expect
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily. Available also for corporate offsite meetings and team-building. Popular with locals and visitors alike. See Seattle in style and from another perspective. You will not regret it! Sunset sails are the most popular. Reserve at: https://sailingseattle.com/
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see
What to Expect
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see Seattle from the water. Take in the fresh air and beautiful colors. You may even spot a whale or porpoise! Refreshments and adult beverages are available onboard.
Argosy vessels are also available for group charters, parties, and weddings. Check out the website for full details and online booking.
Experience one of the most advanced, full-immersion aerial movie theaters in the world on Seattle’s waterfront. Soar with the eagles here! Open until 10pm weekends during
What to Expect
Experience one of the most advanced, full-immersion aerial movie theaters in the world on Seattle’s waterfront. Soar with the eagles here! Open until 10pm weekends during high season.
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located
What to Expect
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located in the same building as Anthony’s Pier 66 and Anthony’s Fish Bar. The views and service are top notch.
Italian food tastes even better above the waters of Elliott Bay! Salt District Italian Kitchen (part of Seattle’s own E3 Restaurant Group) features an APERITIVO (Happy) HOUR
What to Expect
Italian food tastes even better above the waters of Elliott Bay! Salt District Italian Kitchen (part of Seattle’s own E3 Restaurant Group) features an APERITIVO (Happy) HOUR from 3-6pm Tuesday through Saturday on Pier 55! Enjoy authentic Italian bites like meatballs alla forno, bruschetta, cured sardine tins, refreshing cocktails, selections of beer, wine, Aperol Spritz, and more.
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily.
What to Expect
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily. Available also for corporate offsite meetings and team-building. Popular with locals and visitors alike. See Seattle in style and from another perspective. You will not regret it! Sunset sails are the most popular. Reserve at: https://sailingseattle.com/
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea
What to Expect
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea Tours on Pier 57. Boats depart all day. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at https://www.salishseatours.com. Boas can be booked also for groups and corporate offsite events.
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of
What to Expect
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of Seattle, the ferries, stadiums, West Seattle, and beyond.
Did you know that you can do a corporate takeover of the entire pier for groups and teams of over 400 people? It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion and bring people together. You can even request a special light show on the wheel as part of the deal!
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful,
What to Expect
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful, fun, and unique. If you have never sailed aboard a tall ship, then this is your opportunity. Book ahead at https://seattlesailingship.com or drop by the ticket booth right next to Anthony’s Fish Bar at Pier 66. You will not be disappointed! Bring your own beverages and food – cooler aboard.
Did you know that the US Coast Guard has a museum at Pier 36? It’s a precious gem for anyone with an interest in the service, boats,
What to Expect
Did you know that the US Coast Guard has a museum at Pier 36? It’s a precious gem for anyone with an interest in the service, boats, or the maritime industry. Here you will find the world’s biggest collection of USCG badges, many available for sale. The models, stories, photos, and items found here represent a rich NW maritime tradition. Have fun! There is no charge for entrance. The public and service members are welcome. Call ahead to confirm opening hours and protocols (206) 217-6993
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see
What to Expect
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see Seattle from the water. Take in the fresh air and beautiful colors. You may even spot a whale or porpoise! Refreshments and adult beverages are available onboard.
Argosy vessels are also available for group charters, parties, and weddings. Check out the website for full details and online booking.
This little-known museum in the heart of Seattle will give you an added appreciation for the city and its history. This is a small museum and it
What to Expect
This little-known museum in the heart of Seattle will give you an added appreciation for the city and its history. This is a small museum and it won’t take long to take it in, but it’s definitely worth a visit. Free and open to the public.
Open daily. We are located on Post Alley & Union (about 300ft down from the gum wall). Google maps may take you to 1st & Union instead.
What to Expect
Open daily. We are located on Post Alley & Union (about 300ft down from the gum wall). Google maps may take you to 1st & Union instead. Just take the staircase down to Post Alley. Check out our exhibits, hours and prices at https://seattleselfiemuseum.com
Italian food tastes even better above the waters of Elliott Bay! Salt District Italian Kitchen (part of Seattle’s own E3 Restaurant Group) features an APERITIVO (Happy) HOUR
What to Expect
Italian food tastes even better above the waters of Elliott Bay! Salt District Italian Kitchen (part of Seattle’s own E3 Restaurant Group) features an APERITIVO (Happy) HOUR from 3-6pm Tuesday through Saturday on Pier 55! Enjoy authentic Italian bites like meatballs alla forno, bruschetta, cured sardine tins, refreshing cocktails, selections of beer, wine, Aperol Spritz, and more.
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located
What to Expect
Drop by Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 for some delicious treats during happy hour. Anthony’s Bell Street Diner Seattle’s waterfront is located in the same building as Anthony’s Pier 66 and Anthony’s Fish Bar. The views and service are top notch.
Tours on Fridays and Saturdays Get the full Copperworks story in our small group tours. You’ll learn about our distinctive distilling process,
What to Expect
Tours on Fridays and Saturdays
Get the full Copperworks story in our small group tours. You’ll learn about our distinctive distilling process, get a behind-the-scenes view of our stills, and visit our fermenting and barreling areas.
The tour wraps up with a guided tasting of our products.
It is not clear how many businesses are participating in the Belltown Art Walk at this time. Tamper your expectations, but prepare to be delighted nonetheless.
What to Expect
It is not clear how many businesses are participating in the Belltown Art Walk at this time. Tamper your expectations, but prepare to be delighted nonetheless. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes, and options in the neighborhood.
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful,
What to Expect
The Bay Lady is a modern ship based on the ones that used to ply these waters more than one century ago. Spacious, beautiful, fun, and unique. If you have never sailed aboard a tall ship, then this is your opportunity. Book ahead at https://seattlesailingship.com or drop by the ticket booth right next to Anthony’s Fish Bar at Pier 66. You will not be disappointed! Bring your own beverages and food – cooler aboard.
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea
What to Expect
Get a front row seat! Grab your place on the waterfront’s newest tour boats, Orca 1 and Orca 2, custom built for Salish Sea Tours on Pier 57. Boats depart all day. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time at https://www.salishseatours.com. Boas can be booked also for groups and corporate offsite events.
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of
What to Expect
Skiers will feel right at home in the gondolas attached to Seattle’s Great Wheel as they soar 200 feet above the waterfront for exceptional night time views of Seattle, the ferries, stadiums, West Seattle, and beyond.
Did you know that you can do a corporate takeover of the entire pier for groups and teams of over 400 people? It’s a great way to celebrate a special occasion and bring people together. You can even request a special light show on the wheel as part of the deal!
No team makes women’s basketball more fun or exciting than the Seattle Storm! Each home game has its own special theme. Don’t be
What to Expect
No team makes women’s basketball more fun or exciting than the Seattle Storm! Each home game has its own special theme. Don’t be surprised if a massive conga line breaks out at any moment. The Storm have qualified for the WNBA Playoffs in sixteen of its twenty-one years in Seattle. The Storm are four-time WNBA Champions, with victories in 2004, 2010, 2018, and 2020. Tickets available starting around $35.
The team cultivates a fan-friendly, family environment at home games by having an all-kid dance squad, which leads young fans in a conga line on the court during time-outs, to the music of “C’mon N’ Ride It (The Train)” by the Quad City DJ’s. Named for the rainy weather of Seattle, the team uses many weather-related icons: the team mascot is Doppler, a maroon-furred creature with a cup anemometer on its head; the theme song for Storm home games is AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck”; and its newsletter is called Stormwatch.
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily.
What to Expect
Sailing Seattle runs two ocean-going sailing yachts built for speed. Seats can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Four depatures daily. Available also for corporate offsite meetings and team-building. Popular with locals and visitors alike. See Seattle in style and from another perspective. You will not regret it! Sunset sails are the most popular. Reserve at: https://sailingseattle.com/
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see
What to Expect
Choose a one-hour Harbor Cruise or take a little longer to go through the Ballard Locks! Grab your colleagues, kids, or lover, and head down to see Seattle from the water. Take in the fresh air and beautiful colors. You may even spot a whale or porpoise! Refreshments and adult beverages are available onboard.
Argosy vessels are also available for group charters, parties, and weddings. Check out the website for full details and online booking.
This little-known museum in the heart of Seattle will give you an added appreciation for the city and its history. This is a small museum and it
What to Expect
This little-known museum in the heart of Seattle will give you an added appreciation for the city and its history. This is a small museum and it won’t take long to take it in, but it’s definitely worth a visit. Free and open to the public.
Watch the boats, fish, and flowers along one remarkable, man-made waterway. Ballard Locks are a perfect destination for family and friends visiting from out of town.
What to Expect
Watch the boats, fish, and flowers along one remarkable, man-made waterway. Ballard Locks are a perfect destination for family and friends visiting from out of town. Head to historic Ballard Avenue afterwards for a mind-boggling number of restaurant options.
The Ballard Locks were built over 100 years ago. At the time, it was the second largest cut of its kind in the world, second only to the Panama Canal. Without these locks and canal, Lake Washington and Lake Union would be disconnected from the Puget Sound for boat traffic. Although locks and canals are common in parts of Europe, the Ballard Locks stand alone on the west coast for their scale. There is a park, fish ladder, and botanical garden on the large federal property.
If you have never seen the locks from the water, then you can actually go through the locks on a local cruise boat. It is great fun and a totally different perspective. See: Argosy Cruises (WA residents, check for local resident discount).