Top reasons to visit Ballard
- Ballard Locks: Witness the fascinating fish ladder and boats passing through the iconic Ballard Locks, a must-see attraction.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Enjoy an exciting nightlife scene with various bars, live music venues, and restaurants that cater to all tastes.
- Local Markets: Explore unique shops and local markets along Ballard Avenue, offering a taste of the community's culture.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in family-friendly outdoor activities at nearby parks and waterfront areas, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
- Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of boutique hotels and guesthouses, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers.
Find great hotels near Ballard
Discover the charm of Ballard, Seattle, with a variety of lodging options including boutique hotels and guesthouses. Perfect for business travelers and those seeking a pet-friendly or LGBTQIA-friendly experience, Ballard offers a welcoming atmosphere for all. Whether you’re looking for the best hotels or a cozy inn, you’ll find the ideal place to relax and enjoy your vacation in this vibrant neighborhood.
- Hyatt Regency Seattle: A premier 4-star hotel, Hyatt Regency Seattle offers a vibrant city-themed experience, ideal for eco-conscious travelers and those who appreciate inclusivity. Located 8.0km from Ballard, this eco-certified property features modern accommodations and a warm atmosphere welcoming to the LGBTQIA community. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities including a state-of-the-art fitness center, on-site dining options, and event spaces for business or leisure gatherings. Its central location places you in the heart of Seattle, making it perfect for exploring the city's attractions.
- Mediterranean Inn: This charming 3-star hotel is situated 6.4km from Ballard and is an adventurous haven for travelers seeking excitement in the city. The Mediterranean Inn is LGBTQIA welcoming and offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, sailing, and kayaking nearby. Guests appreciate the cozy rooms and the rooftop terrace that provides stunning views of the Seattle skyline. With its vibrant ambiance and commitment to adventure, this hotel is an excellent choice for those wanting to make the most of their Seattle getaway.
- The Belltown Inn: Located 8.0km from Ballard, The Belltown Inn is a unique, pet-friendly accommodation that caters to both travelers and their furry companions. This LGBTQIA welcoming hotel provides a comfortable stay with amenities such as food and water bowls for pets and a pet-friendly policy. Guests can enjoy cozy rooms with modern conveniences and access to the city's vibrant neighborhoods. Its central location makes it easy to explore Seattle's attractions while ensuring a warm and accommodating environment for all guests.
Where to stay near Ballard
Ballard, a vibrant neighborhood in Seattle, offers a delightful mix of urban charm and outdoor adventures, making it ideal for family-friendly vacations. Stroll along Ballard Avenue to discover unique shops and delicious eateries, or visit the iconic Ballard Locks. With its scenic views and welcoming atmosphere, this area provides a perfect escape for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration. Nearby attractions further enhance the experience, ensuring that every family member finds something to enjoy.
- Seattle: As a vibrant metropolis, Seattle serves as the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Ballard is nestled within this bustling city, making it a perfect base for exploration. The city's allure lies in its diverse outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and urban experiences. In the summer months, from June to August, Seattle buzzes with visitors eager to explore iconic sites such as Pike Place Market and the lush recreational areas. Nearby landmarks, including sports stadiums and national parks, offer a blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
- Downtown Seattle: Located 8.0km from Ballard, Downtown Seattle is a dynamic neighborhood that showcases the city’s urban charm. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, this area attracts visitors year-round, especially during peak seasons in March to April and July. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant public markets, catch a show in one of the many theaters, or stroll along the bustling marina. With a rich history reflected in its landmarks and the excitement of nearby sports facilities, Downtown Seattle is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city's lively spirit.
- Greenwood: Just 3.2km from Ballard, Greenwood is a charming neighborhood known for its welcoming vibe and community-oriented atmosphere. Visitors flock here for outdoor adventures, family activities, and city-themed experiences, especially during peak months from February to April. The area boasts a variety of recreational spaces, educational institutions, and unique shopping areas. With local landmarks like urban parks and modern towers, Greenwood offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist trails.
Things to do in and around Ballard
Ballard, Seattle is perfect for outdoor and family vacations, offering a mix of city charm and recreational activities. Visitors can explore the Rideau Vineyard, observe fish swimming up the fish ladder, and enjoy shopping at local markets. The vibrant nightlife adds to the experience, making it a great destination for education and entertainment. Whether you're looking to relax outdoors or immerse yourself in local culture, Ballard has something for everyone.
Shopping
Visit Pike Place Market, a vibrant public market 8.0km from Ballard, known for its local crafts and fresh produce. Northgate Station, a shopping mall 4.8km away, offers family-friendly entertainment and shopping options. Don’t miss Scarecrow Video, a unique store also located 4.8km from Ballard.
Recreation
At Golden Gardens Park, enjoy serene beach walks and lush gardens, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. For an energetic experience, catch a game at Lumen Field, just 9.7km away, embracing the vibrant sports atmosphere. Alternatively, immerse yourself in live music at Showbox SoDo, located 11.3km from Ballard.
Adventure
At Green Lake Small Craft Center, immerse yourself in thrilling water sports just 3.2km from Ballard, enjoying kayaking and paddleboarding. Experience the natural beauty at Camp Long, located 12.9km away, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. UW Waterfront Activities Center, 8.0km away, offers more exciting water adventures.
Nightlife
In Ballard, the nightlife is vibrant and eclectic. The Moore Theatre offers a cultural experience with various performances, while The Crocodile provides a lively nightclub atmosphere. For a more relaxed evening, SIFF Cinema Uptown showcases films perfect for a romantic night out or family entertainment.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ballard
To save money on your trip to Ballard, consider visiting from December to February, when hotel prices are lower, especially on Mondays. Avoid Saturdays for the best rates. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options by sorting prices from lowest to highest and filtering for Eco-certified hotels. Combining your hotel stay with flights and activities through an Expedia package can also yield extra savings. Additionally, explore Ballard on foot to cut down on transportation costs and take advantage of free activities in the area.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Ballard are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Ballard is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Ballard is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you set your budget, choose your ideal location, and customize various preferences. You can organize your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will highlight sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Ballard with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Ballard
Ballard, Seattle, is perfect for family-friendly outdoor adventures and city-themed vacations. Visitors can explore popular attractions like urban parks, modern universities, and iconic towers. Don't miss the Ballard Locks and a stroll along Ballard Avenue NW, which showcase the area's rich culture and vibrant community. With its blend of urban experiences and family activities, Ballard offers something for everyone to enjoy during their visit.
- Space Needle: Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Seattle from this iconic modern tower. Standing at 605 feet, the Space Needle offers a unique perspective of the city skyline, Puget Sound, and the breathtaking mountains beyond, making it a must-visit landmark.
- University of Washington: Explore the beautiful campus of this prestigious modern university, known for its stunning architecture and cherry blossom trees. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with students, art installations, and historical sites, reflecting Seattle's rich educational culture.
- Seattle Center: Enjoy a lively urban park that hosts a variety of attractions, including theaters, gardens, and public art. Perfect for families, visitors can partake in outdoor activities, festivals, and cultural events, immersing themselves in the city's vibrant community.
Best time to go to Ballard
The best time to visit Ballard is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Ballard
Traveling to Ballard, Seattle, is convenient with several nearby airports. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) is situated 27.4km away, with luxurious hotel options like the Fairmont Olympic Hotel, Lotte Hotel Seattle, and Four Seasons Hotel Seattle, all within 17.7km of the airport. Seattle Paine Field International Airport (PAE) is also 27.4km from Ballard, offering nearby stays at The Lodge at St Edward Park and Delta Hotels by Marriott Seattle Everett, which are 12 and 9.7km away, respectively. For a unique experience, Lake Union Seaplane Base (LKE) is just 6.4km from Ballard, with excellent accommodations like Renaissance Seattle Hotel and W Seattle, both 1.6km away.