Things To Do
in Olympia
Olympia is the capital city of the state of Washington in the United States. It is known for its scenic beauty, with views of the Puget Sound and nearby mountains. The city has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with many galleries, theaters, and museums to explore.
Olympia is also home to the Evergreen State College and the Washington State Capitol building.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at the scenic Hands on Children's Museum. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Visit the Olympia Farmers Market to explore local produce and crafts. Grab a delicious lunch from one of the food vendors offering fresh, organic meals.
Relax at waterfront parks like Marathon Park as you watch the sunset. Enjoy a picnic dinner while embracing the serene atmosphere.
Tour the Washington State Capitol campus and admire its stunning architecture. Don't forget to take a guided tour to learn about the history of the building.
Head over to the Hands On Children's Museum for interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages. Let your creativity shine in the various art stations.
Dine at a local restaurant featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine. Bask in the ambiance and enjoy the vibrant local dining scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings including forests, rivers, and proximity to Puget Sound.
- Rich cultural scene with local arts, music, and theater communities.
- Lively farmers markets and a focus on local food and sustainability.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and cycling.
- A strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Higher cost of living compared to other areas in Washington State.
- More rainy days and overcast skies than many other regions, which can affect mood.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, leading to potential employment challenges.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly on I-5.
- Occasional homelessness and social issues that can impact urban areas.
Best Activities in Olympia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse wilderness, hiking trails, and scenic vistas in Olympic National Park.
Enjoy waterfront views, walking paths, and public art at Percival Landing in Olympia.
Experience boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding at Boston Harbor Marina.
Savor nature trails, beach access, and picnicking at Priest Point Park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Olympia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Olympia
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic park featuring waterfalls, walking trails, and beautiful views of the Deschutes River.
Iconic government campus with stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city and Puget Sound.
Beautiful park with walking trails, beach access, and picturesque views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains.
Scenic overlook offering breathtaking views of the Olympia waterfront and marina.
Park with picturesque walking trails, a pond, and views of the surrounding forested area.
Food in Olympia
Olympia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy chowder featuring the giant Pacific geoduck clam, a local delicacy, commonly found at waterfront seafood restaurants like Anthony's HomePort.
Must-Try!
Grilled salmon marinated in a savory teriyaki sauce, showcasing the region's renowned fresh Pacific salmon. Available at popular local eateries like Dockside Bistro & Wine Bar.
Fresh and briny, these small, sweet oysters are a must-try. Visit Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar to enjoy them at their finest, accompanied by a view of the bay.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Olympia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An iconic farmers market offering an array of seasonal produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats including tamales, hand-pressed juices, and ethnic cuisine from various food stalls.
A gathering of food trucks presenting a diverse selection of global street food options, from gourmet burgers to vegan tacos and wood-fired pizza, providing a unique dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Olympia, it is important to recognize and respect personal space. People generally appreciate it when others maintain a comfortable distance during conversations and interactions.
Olympia is known for its diverse community, so embracing and respecting different cultures, traditions, and beliefs is a key aspect of respectful behavior in the city.
Practicing mindful and respectful communication is valued in Olympia. Being polite, using appropriate language, and listening actively are important in interactions with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Olympia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Olympia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Olympia, United States, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, hotels, and other service industries. It is customary to tip between 15-20% of the total bill for good service.
Payment in Olympia, United States, is primarily done using credit/debit cards, cash, or digital payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Olympia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Olympia. Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities.
Warm and dry weather, perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying water activities.
Beautiful foliage, pleasant temperatures, and fall festivals. Great for hiking and outdoor events.
Cool and wet weather. Ideal for indoor activities, visiting museums, and enjoying holiday events.
Olympia at Night
Hiking in Olympia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park with deep forests, wildflower meadows, and breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Rainier. There are numerous hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging.
This diverse park offers mountains, forests, and coastline trails. Popular hikes include the Hoh Rain Forest and the Hurricane Ridge trails, capturing the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
A beautiful park featuring a series of waterfalls with easy access hiking trails. It’s perfect for a short hike and to enjoy the scenery without going far from the city.
A large forest area with various trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are many well-maintained trails available for all experience levels.
An easy, family-friendly trail winding through the woodlands of Lacey, offering a peaceful hike with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
While not a traditional hiking spot, the waterfront boardwalk offers scenic walks along the water with views of the marina and nearby parks.
This area offers flat walking trails through stunning wetlands and marshlands, providing great views for bird watching and enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Olympia through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Olympia by plane.
Located approximately 45 miles north of Olympia, SEA is the primary airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area and offers numerous international flights.
Situated about 130 miles south of Olympia, PDX serves the Portland metropolitan area and provides a wide range of international flight options.
Approximately 270 miles east of Olympia, GEG is the primary airport serving Spokane and offers several international flights.
Located around 40 miles north of Olympia, BFI primarily serves general aviation but also handles some international flights.
Located approximately 90 miles northwest of Olympia, in British Columbia, Canada, YYJ serves international flights to various destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly European ancestry, making up a significant majority of the population.
A diverse group including individuals of various Latin American backgrounds.
Includes individuals of East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian descent.
A demographic group with ancestry primarily from Africa and the African diaspora.
Individuals identifying with more than one racial category.
Indigenous peoples of North America, including tribes and communities.
Includes individuals with ancestry from the Pacific Islands.
The Soul of Olympia
Discover the essence of Olympia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Olympia, with local high school teams and a strong following for college and professional leagues.
Soccer is increasingly popular in Olympia, with youth leagues and a growing adult recreational scene.
Widely played at schools and community centers, basketball enjoys a strong presence in Olympia.
Baseball has deep roots in Olympia, with local little leagues and community teams actively engaging residents.
Beach and indoor volleyball are popular recreational activities in Olympia, attracting players of all ages.
With its scenic parks and trails, running is a favored sport among locals, with events like marathons and fun runs.
Olympia offers many cycling paths and trails, making cycling a popular activity for both recreation and commuting.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Olympia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries in Olympia offer diverse and well-crafted vegetarian and vegan dishes. Notable options include vegan pho at Pho Saigon and vegetarian lasagna at Pellegrino's Italian Kitchen.
Many restaurants and cafes in Olympia provide gluten-free menus or options, such as the gluten-free pizzas at Vic's Pizzeria and the quinoa salad at Budd Bay Café.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Olympia with these cultural adventures.
