Things To Do
Discovery Park
This 534-acre nature park boasts extensive trails and breathtaking views amid lush nature. You can walk to here from the Ballard Locks 15 minutes away! It occupies most of the historic WWII era Fort Lawton site and features heritage buildings like a chapel, gymnasium, and horse stable. You can also hike or bike through the forest and visit the West Point Lighthouse and the beach for views of downtown Seattle and Mount Rainer from a distance. Allow for a couple hours to enjoy the trails and walk to beach!
Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks and Salmon Fish Ladder
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (locally known as the Ballard Locks) is a waterway system that connects the saltwater of the Puget Sound to the fresh water of the Ship Canal, which sits about 20 feet above sea level. Boats enter the locks, the gates close and the water rises or falls to the level of the destination waterway. Watching boats pass through the locks, exploring the 7 acres of botanical gardens and looking for fish on the fish ladder is fun and free entertainment that draws locals and tourists alike. Located in same neighborhood as wedding events and Discovery Park is a 15 minute walk away.
Ballard Farmers Market
The Ballard Farmers Market is open every Sunday, rain or shine, year-round from 9:00 AM - 2:00PM.
Pike Place Market
The Pike Place Market has been a defining Seattle icon for more than a century. Considered by many “the soul of Seattle,” the Market spans nine historic acres in the center of downtown where everyday locals and tourists alike shop, visit, eat and discover. Founded in 1907, the Market is one of the oldest and largest continuously operating public markets in the United States and is brought to life by the hundreds of farmers, crafters, small businesses, and residents that call it “home”.
Space Needle
At 605 feet tall, the landmark was constructed to symbolize humanity’s Space Age aspirations, and since its grand opening on April 21, 1962, continues to represent the innovative and forward-thinking spirit of Seattle. The tower’s 520’ saucer-shaped “top house” offers visitors Seattle’s only 360-degree indoor and outdoor panoramic views of downtown, Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, and the Cascades and Olympic mountain ranges. Also available is a combination ticket to visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum. Located at Seattle Center, Chihuly Garden and Glass brings together all the elements of artist Dale Chihuly’s work, including Drawings, iconic glass creations, large architectural installations, and personal collections. This long-term Exhibition features indoor galleries, the Glasshouse, and an ever-changing Garden, along with live glass demonstrations, a Theater, and The Bar at Chihuly, which features items from Chihuly’s personal collections.
Kerry Park
Great for a beautiful view of the Seattle skyline
Ballard Brewery District
Ballard is a neighborhood known for its vibrant craft brewing scene and it is easy to walk around the Brewing District and check them all out! —Bickersons Brewhouse* | 1514 NW Leary Way —Distant West Brewing Co. | 1406 NW 53rd St Suite 1A —Fair Isle Brewing | 936 NW 49th St —Great Notion Brewing | 5101 14th Ave NW Suite 101 —Lucky Envelope Brewing | 907 NW 50th St —Maritime Pacific Brewing Company | 1111 NW Ballard Way —Obec Brewing | 1144 NW 52nd St —Old Stove Brewing Co. – Gardens | 1550 NW 49 St —Reuben’s Brews | 5010 14th Ave NW —Stoup Brewing | 1108 NW 52nd St —Trailbend Taproom | 1118 NW 50th St —Urban Family Brewing Co. | 1103 NW 52nd St —Wheelie Pop Brewing | 1110 NW 50th St
Snow Lake Trail Hike
Peter's favorite hike in the Seattle area. You will need a rental car and trail pass (easy to get online). You will need about 9-10 hours for this to get to and from Seattle and do the hike at a leisurely pace and enjoy the sights and take a swim in the alpine lake. Bring a lunch to eat at halfway point.
Snoqualmie Falls
Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington state’s most popular scenic attractions. More than 1.5 million visitors come to the Falls every year. At the falls, you will find a two-acre park, gift shop, observation deck, the Salish Lodge and the famous 270 foot waterfall. The upper observation and lower observation decks are open every day of the year! The free parking and free viewing area are open from dawn until dusk. Located approximately 45 minutes from downtown Seattle to the east
Ferry to Bainbridge Island
Take a one hour out and back ferry to Bainbridge Island in the Puget Sound from the downtown waterfront for great views of Olympic National Park and downtown Seattle and it's surrounding islands.
Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour
Seattle burned down many years ago, and the new city was built on top of the old. There are guided tours of the remnant underground portions of the city from more than a hundred years ago that you can walk through to this day.