How many times have I walked by this little treasure? You hardly notice the entrance. It apparently was an old blacksmith shop where they made parts for the Locks, a hundred years ago.Now, it has a number of interesting historical artifacts, videos and some exhibits on the Locks history and how it works on the second floor.It is also the staging area for tours of the Locks and botanical garden just outside. Something free to do on a rainy or even sunny day.To top it off, there is a small gift shop/book store with a number of unique items connected to the Locks.

Always love this place. Great place to take the family and have the kids watch the boats come in and go, as well as the salmon ladder they have towards the back. Bring your own food though if your gonna be a while, nice places for picnics in the park area too.

The Visitor and Gift Shop is a hidden gem at the Ballard Locks that would be easy to walk pass, but would be worth a visit for anyone interested in learning about the history, construction, and various historical figures associated with the Ballard Locks. The Visitor Center features a kid-friendly gift shop, and impressive display are upstairs full of lock-related historical displays, models, and specimens. There is a small movie theater on the ground floor that shows an excellent 15 minute movie the lock history and construction. Highly recommend a stopping by on your visit to the locks.

One time I tore here with my Son. Instructors were friendly and knowledgeable in a lot about the locks that day.