The Ballard Locks is a public space that has many things to offer. As a park, it is a well kept green space with lush lawns and interesting plantings. Bring a picnic and let your kids burn off some energy rolling or running down the terraced grass that slopes down to the level of the locks. The fish ladder can also be an interesting side trip, especially when the largest fish are making their way back upstream in late summer and early fall. The most important attraction at the Ballard Locks, of course, are the locks themselves - engineering marvels that transport an endless parade of boats to and from the inner lakes to the sound. You'll see some large boats, some small boats, some boats that have difficulty negotiating the procedures in the locks and it all adds up to ever-changing entertainment.
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