Friends of the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery — Attraction in Issaquah

I was really disappointed with this. Everything on the visit seattle websites said it was free and it was an open park type area. It isn't. Ok, I can understand that, my mistake for not checking out the main website. My bigger issue was the woman at the front desk. One was new and she was very kind and understanding of the mistake, the other was having none of it. She refused to listen to anything I said and as I continued to tell her my mistake she got more and more stubborn. Then after all this I left saying it was my fault and everything, I asked about the fish statues and they were closed to public, as was the gift shop. It honestly felt like you weren't allowed to even look towards the building without paying haha they just seemed very protective and greedy. It was really strange. I would 100% rather go to the Ballard locks, they like seeing you and it's a better bigger facility and is free. I do not recommend coming here, drive the extra half hour to go to Ballard, never had a problem there. I'd add photos but I wasn't allowed to take anything, it was easier to get into area 51 then this...

The Issaquah Salmon Hatchery is an incredible place to visit for both kids and adults. It’s packed with fascinating information about salmon and their life cycle, and seeing the salmon at different stages of life is nothing short of amazing.

The best time to visit is during spawning season when you can watch the salmon make their way up the river—it’s such a powerful and unforgettable experience.

One of my favorite traditions is visiting the hatchery during Issaquah’s Salmon Days in October. My family and I have been coming for the last 18 years, and it’s always such a fun time. The streets are filled with vendors, arts, music, activities, dog jumping shows, great food, and more. It’s a wonderful way to welcome fall while celebrating the salmon and the community.

If you’re in the area, the hatchery is absolutely worth a visit, especially during Salmon Days. It’s a unique and memorable...

To start I was very impressed with the set up of this self guided tour. It is laid out very simply with audio guides and numbers to follow. It goes from egg stage all the way to seeing the end of life for the salmon.

When we first arrived the parking lot was already full because it is fairly small, but street parking was easy to find.

Walking the multiple pears was very peaceful. Lots of wildlife and up close encounters which was very cool.

In addition to the hatchery there is also a small plant garden that takes you through a small loop of native plants that is all labeled giving more information on each one.

Across the street is the local library and coffee shops to further explore Issaquah.

I highly recommend this opportunity to...