Red Robin At Pier 55Red Robin can be found in many cities around the U.S. and Canada.
Preschool Story Time at the Public Library
Let someone else share a story with your preschooler.
Carkeek Park
Located on the water in North Seattle, this park is a preschool marine wonderland.
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, or more commonly called the Ballard Locks, is a fun free exploration. There are so many things to watch and see, you could make a whole day of it, so take a picnic lunch. Built in 1911, the locks were build to make coal and timber transport available. On Ship Canal, the locks connect Puget Sound to Lake Union. Everyday you can watch a different parade of boats going thru the locks. Big boats and small ones use the locks, so there is always something to watch. It is a must see for tourists and locals alike.
Advantages of Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Watching boats of all different sizes come in and out of the locks is a huge treat for preschoolers.
There is the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden, which in the late winter/early spring, is a must see.
There is a fish ladder to help salmon get from salt water to fresh. It has glass windows so you can see the fish going up. Often you can also catch a brilliant sea lion waiting, at either end, for his next meal.
There are grassy hills on the side to sit and watch the boats go about.
There are free guided tours March 1st thru November 30th. You can call the visitor center to get exact times.
There is a great little gift shop to buy trinkets and mementos of your day.
There is a dam with a spillway, which my son found fascinating.
This is a great learning opportunity for preschoolers.
Disadvantages of Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
The loading, raising and lowering of the locks does take longer than some preschoolers have patience for. A quick game of tag, catch or "I-spy" usually is in order.
It is near the water and can get a bit cold on gray days. Dress according to weather.
When the salmon are running, the windows are usually busy. Patience and calm is the best way to get to see the fish.
Special Features Not To Miss
The fish ladder, watching salmon during spawning season jumping up.
The botanical garden, late winter early spring is the best time to see all it's beauty.
Watching the boats go thru the locks.
General Information
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Visitor Center
Visitor Center Hours Of Operation:
Winter hours are October 1 through April 30 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Summer hours are daily, May 1 through September 30, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.