Looking out over the modern yachts in the Shilshole Bay Marina is this magnificent statue of the Icelandic explorer and 'discoverer' of America, Leif Erikson, surrounded by a stone circle. The statue is an important reminder of Seattle's (and Ballard's) Nordic heritage: the city claims more Icelandic Americans than anywhere else in the US.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Shilshole Bay Marina

0.06 MILES

The Shilshole Bay Marina, about 2 miles northwest of the Hiram M Chittenden Locks along Seaview Ave NW, offers pleasant views across Puget Sound framed by…

2. Sunset Hill Park

0.41 MILES

Rising above Golden Gardens on 34th Ave is sinuous Sunset Hill Park, a prime perch for dramatic sunsets and long views.

3. Golden Gardens Park

0.74 MILES

Golden Gardens Park, established in 1904 by Harry W Treat, is a lovely 95-acre beach park with sandy beaches north of Shilshole Bay Marina. There are…

5. Carl English Jr Botanical Gardens

0.98 MILES

On the northern bank of Hiram M Chittenden Locks is this charming arboretum and specimen garden. Trails wind through gardens filled with flowers and…

6. Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center

0.98 MILES

Inside Discovery Park you'll find this cultural center that displays a permanent collection of Native American artwork, special exhibitions and hosts…

7. Nordic Museum

0.98 MILES

Reason alone to come to Ballard – if the culinary scene and waterside parks weren’t enough – is this delightful surprise of a museum dedicated to Nordic…

8. Hiram M Chittenden Locks

0.98 MILES

Seattle shimmers like an impressionist painting on sunny days at the Hiram M Chittenden Locks. Here, the fresh waters of Lake Washington and Lake Union…