Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden is a seven-acre garden beside the Ballard Locks in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. Its English-style paths wind among flowering plants, roses, trees and palms, with waterfront views and shady spots to pause. Pair a walk through the garden with time at the locks, where boats move between different water levels, and visit the nearby fish ladder to look for migrating fish. The garden’s paved paths are flat, and dogs are welcome on leash.
Garden paths and plantings
The garden covers seven acres on the grounds of the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. Its English landscape style brings together trees, flowering plants and lawns, with paths that lead through different kinds of planting in a compact area.
More than 500 plant species grow here, including oaks, fan palms and roses. Seasonal displays include fuchsia and lilies. In spring, rhododendrons and flowering trees add color; roses are a draw in June. The mix changes with the season, so a return visit can bring a different view of the grounds.
Part of a visit to the locks
The garden sits beside the Ballard Locks, where boats travel between waterways at different levels. The locks and their canals give the grounds a maritime setting, with boats to watch from near the water.
The fish ladder is another nearby stop. Fish use it to move past the locks during migration, and the ladder has viewing areas for watching their passage. Great blue herons are also easy to spot in the area. The garden’s flat paved paths connect the plantings with the wider lock grounds.
Perguntas frequentes
Is admission to the garden free?
Yes. The garden is free to visit.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are allowed on leash.
What can you see at the nearby fish ladder?
You can watch fish moving through the ladder during migration season.
