As of May 17, Emerald City Trolley is making the rounds in Ballard.

No, it's not the high capacity transit that residents have been waiting for for years, but it is one of few tour companies to make its way out of the downtown core and give neighborhoods such as Ballard and Fremont some love.

In addition to all of the traditional sightseeing stops -- such as EMP, the Space Needle, the Aquarium, Pier 66 -- the trolley will have a north line that comes up and explores Fremont, the Woodland Park Zoo, downtown Ballard and the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks. In addition, there will be two other lines exploring other parts of the city.

“We’re thrilled to launch the trolley network and think it will add a great deal of enjoyment for tourists and locals who want to experience the highlights of Seattle at their leisure,” said Howard Wright, founder and CEO of the Emerald City Trolley. “By hopping-on and hopping-off, our guests will have the ability to explore Seattle in new ways –- whether it is the Zoo, Aquarium, Pioneer Square, Ballard Locks or the Seattle Art Museum.”

According to Emerald City Trolley, the trolleys are led by experienced tour guides available to help guests organize their travel itineraries and get the most out of their trips to Seattle. Tours are narrated with "historical accounts as well as farcical anecdotes."

Guests have the option of purchasing a two or three-day pass, which provides access to all of the three tour lines. General admission for a two-day pass costs $45 and a three-day pass costs $60. Additional days may be added for $15. Family passes for two adults and up to three youths (12 and under) are also available for $110. Tickets can be purchased on the trolley at any stop, at the retail location at the intersection of 2nd and Pike in downtown Seattle, online at www.emeraldcitytrolley.com/booking or by calling toll free (855) 313-3456. Ticket prices may vary and discounts may be available for youths, seniors, military personnel, and King County residents.

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