Salmon are truly iconic to the City of Issaquah. The fish are represented in local culture, heritage and arts; featured in local business, organization names, logos (including the City of Issaquah) and the subject matter of public art. At the center of the fall salmon run (late August through November) is the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery. The hatchery is open everyday and free to walk around. FISH staff and volunteers offer various tour options including guided (booked or weekend walk-up), self-guided (brochures available in the aquarium room) & stream walks. The hatchery also hosts free events such as the Salmon on Sunset Celebration (Saturday, September 14, 10-6pm) & the Salmon Days Festival. Both draw crowds. Tuesdays in October feature salmon spawning. The FISHop gift shop is open weekends (10am-6pm) and offers hatchery specific souvenirs, local gifts, eco-toys, as well as local and native artist wears. 

Built in 1936, the hatchery raises Chinook (king) and Coho (silver) salmon that return through Lake Sammamish and up Issaquah Creek during the fall salmon run. From various viewpoints along the creek and throughout the city, visitors and residents can enjoy watching the adult salmon making their journey back home to the hatchery. The map below recommends good spots to watch the miraculous salmon journey.