Bottled water is sold in the Visitor Center.   Picnic lunches are allowed and there are a number of local eating places and sources for takeaway food.
  
A number of Tour Companies include the Locks.  Other options are Seattle Metro buses or Urber.
If you want to experience the Locks from a boat, try Argosy Cruises.  

how do I get to the locks w/o a car?

food and drinks at the locks?

The small locks are closed for 2 weeks in March.  The large locks are closed for 2 or more weeks in November,  check NEWS for schedules and Inside the Chamber donation-based tours offered.

when are the SHIP locks closed for annual maintenance?

Free unlimited parking is available in the neighborhoods and on the South side entrance.  You can walk across the Lock chambers from either side.  City of Seattle limited metered parking is at the North main entrance.  Sunday parking is free.  Tour and school busses have free parking zones on both the North and South sides of the the Shipping Canal.
   

by the way, we love dogs (on leash)

  
   

riding bikes on the locks grounds is not allowed, please walk your bike

  

admission is free and The grounds, including the fish ladder, are open  everyday 7:00am to 9:00pm