The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, a renowned tourist attraction in Seattle, Washington, acts as a gateway between freshwater Lake Union and the saltwater Puget Sound. This impressive system of locks, completed in 1917, facilitates the movement of boats between different water levels, showcasing a unique engineering marvel against the backdrop of lush greenery. Visitors can witness vessels of all sizes passing through the locks, providing a fascinating glimpse into maritime transportation. Additionally, the grounds surrounding the locks feature impeccably manicured gardens that bloom with colorful flora throughout the seasons, offering a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls. The Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden within the premises further enchants visitors with a diverse collection of plants and trees, creating a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. A museum on-site educates guests on the history and significance of the locks, making it a must-visit destination for both nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Nature, Parks, & Gardens •
Seattle,
Washington
$599
Seattle City Tour 3-Hours (Private Tour)
We specialized in private experiences for small groups. During the tour, we will make three stops in places of tourist importance. The first stop will be the Pioneer Square neighborhood located in the historic district of the old metropolis where we will visit the origins of Seattle on a walk suitable for the whole family and full of history, architecture, and photography. We will continue to the Ballard Locks for our second stop. We will see the boats enter and leave the Pacific Ocean to the lakes surrounding the city. Finally, we will end with one of the most impressive panoramic views before ending the tour where we can take some of the best photos of the city center. The tour ends at the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, or returned to your hotel. It is generally a 3-hour tour but it can be extended if the group wishes. This tour is highly recommended for children and adults of all ages. IMPORTANT: The tour is in English but it can be arranged in Spanish.
$1287
Seattle Cruise Excursion with Private Grand City Tour
Make the most of your time before, after, or while in port in Seattle with this private tour of the city's must-see highlights including the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, the Ballard Locks and Queen Anne Hill. Visit local art galleries, sip coffee at the original Starbucks, and whiz up to the top of the Space Needle if you wish for incredible 360-degree views of Puget Sound, Mt Rainier and the Olympic Mountains. You'll learn all about the history of Seattle from your guide as you travel by van, making stops along the way to explore by foot and discover the best in food, shopping and entertainment. By the end of this private shore excursion, you’ll know Seattle like a local!
$199
Boeing Factory Tour & Seattle City Tours Combo
We are excited to announce the return of our Boeing Factory Tour beginning January 2026. We paused this tour during the global pandemic, but we’re back, better than ever. The Seattle City Tour portion of this experience was ranked “Top 20” experience in the United States by TripAdvisor/Viator, selected from thousands of activities (read some of the reviews!). After more than 10 years of developing and refining this route, we’ve designed a tour that truly maximizes everything you get to see. This is the only tour in Seattle that combines the Boeing Factory Tour with a comprehensive Seattle City Tour. You’ll visit the launch site of Boeing’s very first airplane and see the largest building in the world. The Boeing experience also includes a gallery of innovative aircraft and a flight simulator. Enjoy iconic sights such as floating homes, the Fremont Troll, under the bridge, the busiest lock system in the U.S., the Amazon campus, and what may be the longest floating bridges in the world.
$94
Seattle City and Snoqualmie Falls Half-Day Guided Tour
With two activities in one 4-hour tour, see the top sights of the Seattle area, both natural and manmade. First visit Snoqualmie Falls, a waterfall in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Then experience Seattle on a city tour that introduces you to the attractions and history that make Seattle one of the most livable cities in America. Listen to fun facts and engaging stories about Seattle from a guide, and learn how the city got its name and what the real story is about how much it rains. The itinerary ensures adequate time spent at each location, allowing individual feedback and suggestions from the guide.
$89
Seattle City Tour
As a military veteran, we honor veterans by allowing you to use the Seniors discount 62. Now this tour is like binge watching three episodes of your favorite program, minus the zombies & dragons. I do have a troll, a Space Needle, waterfall, giant Amazon spheres and Pixar UP House just like the movie floating houses (Sleepless in Seattle) We will even show you where Boeing 1st airplane took flight. If you have never seen Jurasick Park Pterodactyls come March - July to see them, I ain’t lying. This tour is both structured & spontaneous, guaranteed to learn and laugh. Yes, you will see the famous sights, and unique neighborhoods as well. Thank you Viator for awarding Seattle's Best Tours as a TOP 20 Experience in the USA in 2022 - 2023
$115
Seattle Sightseeing City Tour with Hotel Pick-up
Sit back and relax while our professional guides showcase the best of Seattle. Enjoy a door-to-door experience with hotel pickup and drop off included. Learn about everything from Seattle's history to the current shape of Seattle.
$63
Seattle Locks Cruise
Discover the best of Seattle on a scenic cruise through the heart of the city and experience the iconic Hiram M. Chittenden (Ballard) Locks, a ‘boat elevator’ connecting Puget Sound and Lake Washington Ship Canal. On the saltwater of Puget Sound, take in breathtaking views of the city skyline and majestic mountain ranges. Then, glide through the freshwater canal for a closer look at historic neighborhoods, commercial fishing vessels, floating homes, seaplanes, and more. Along the way, enjoy captivating stories of Seattle’s past and present from a live, local guide.
$111
The Best of Seattle City Highlights Tour
Discover the Emerald City on our grand 4-hour Seattle tour. Experience the vibrant tastes and sights of Seattle, while exploring distinct neighborhoods such as Chinatown and catch the perfect views from Queen Ann Hill. This public tour provides an excellent overview of Central Seattle from a comfortable bus with large viewing windows. Our tour stops at least four times throughout the excursion. We allow you to get out some on foot to explore as we believe it helps in experiencing the city and neighborhoods properly. We only offer one tour a day so we thrive on making ours the most complete tour of Seattle without you feeling like you're being hurried. Another great benefit is there is NO extra charge to be picked up at 90 percent of Seattle hotels- we are the ONLY tour company to offer this benefit- GRATIS! IF PREARRANGED IN ADVANCE we can even offer drop-offs at Cruise Ports for an EXTRA FEE after the tour ends (AFTER 2:30pm).
$88
Seattle City Highlights Tour
Get to know the beautiful city of Seattle on a 3-hour, sightseeing tour with the best tour guides in the Northwest. Step into our mini coach buses and enjoy a relaxing ride to the city's most popular attractions, including stops at Pioneer Square, the Ballard Locks, and a great city skyline photo opportunity.
$175
Seattle Post-Cruise Tour Package
End your cruise adventure in Seattle with this award-winning tour package! We'll whisk you (and your luggage) from the cruise pier on a 3 hour City Highlights Tour in our comfy 14 passenger mini-coach led by an entertaining and knowledgable local guide, finishing with a drop-off at the airport or your hotel. From the perfect selfie viewpoint to historic landmarks and quirky neighborhoods, this tour is a convenient and fun way to discover what makes Seattle such a beautiful and unique city.
Interesting Places Nearby
Planning the perfect vacation? There are a ton of great places to explore. Checkout out these exciting locations and places near Hiram M. Chittenden Locks.
Seattle Waterfront
Space Needle
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Seattle Aquarium
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
Fremont District
Lake Union
Kerry Park (Franklin Place)
Seattle Center
