Olympia, Washington Travel Guide
City Capital of Washington State and historic site
Washington’s capital sits on Budd Inlet, framed by statehouse domes and cedar-lined parks. Tourists come for the Capitol campus, the Saturday farmers’ market, local breweries, kayaking on the inlet and quick drives to Mount Rainier or Olympic National Park day trips.
.jpg?width=1200)
65°F
Why Visit Olympia, Washington? #
Washington state’s capital draws visitors with a compact civic core, creative arts and easy access to wild places. The Washington State Capitol’s classical dome anchors the Capitol Campus, Percival Landing offers waterfront strolls, and the Olympia Farmers Market highlights regional produce and seafood. Outdoor options span paddling on Puget Sound to day trips into the Olympic Mountains, while independent music venues and small galleries sustain a lively local culture.
Who's Olympia, Washington For?
Olympia is well-placed for Puget Sound and nearby forested parks: Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, Capitol Lake trails and easy ferry access to South Puget Sound for kayaking. Many outdoor options are free or low-cost.
Hands-on exhibits at the Hands On Children’s Museum, accessible waterfront parks and seasonal events make Olympia family-friendly. Moderate hotel prices and plenty of picnic spots keep visits affordable.
A strong farm-to-table and local seafood scene-downtown and Eastside farmers markets highlight Pacific Northwest produce. Expect mid-range restaurant prices, with several standout gastropubs and bakeries.
Romantic waterfront walks near Percival Landing, cozy breweries and intimate dinners in downtown Olympia fit a relaxed couples’ trip. Small boutique hotels and B&Bs add charm without high luxury costs.
Best Things to Do in Olympia, Washington
All Attractions ›
.jpg?width=600)
Olympia, Washington Bucket List
- Washington State Capitol (Legislative Building) - Renaissance-style capitol building with guided tours, panoramic views from the grounds.
- Olympia Farmers Market - Lively waterfront market selling local produce, artisan foods, and crafts on weekends.
- Percival Landing Park - Boardwalk along Budd Inlet with sculptures, moorings, and easy downtown access.
- Priest Point Park - Large city park with saltwater shoreline, miles of trails, picnic areas, and viewpoints.
- Hands On Children's Museum - Interactive exhibits engage kids in science, art, and play; ideal for families.
- Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area - Quiet coastal preserve with boardwalk, heron rookery, and historical dock remnants.
- Tumwater Falls Park - Waterfall series and historic brewery ruins connected by trails and interpretive signs.
- The Washington Center for the Performing Arts - Regional theater presenting touring acts, community performances, and film screenings downtown.
- Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge - Expansive tidal wetlands ideal for birdwatching, easy boardwalk trails, and seasonal viewpoints.
- Fish Brewing Company Taproom - Local brewery and taproom offering a rotating selection of ales and pub food.
- Mount Rainier National Park (Paradise area) - Iconic volcanic peak with alpine meadows and glaciers, reachable in about two hours' drive.
- Seattle - Major city about one hour north, offering museums, Pike Place Market, and waterfront.
- Port Townsend - Victorian seaport town with maritime museums, galleries, and nearby Fort Worden State Park.
- Tacoma (Museum District) - Short drive south featuring Museum of Glass, LeMay-America's Car Museum, and waterfront parks.
Regions of Olympia, Washington #
Capitol Campus
Olympia’s Capitol Campus is the city’s defining landmark - formal lawns, monuments and a compact set of museums. It’s a peaceful place to visit during the day with clear walking routes and frequent public events. Good for history buffs and anyone who wants scenic urban green space.
Top Spots
- Washington State Capitol - the distinctive domed campus with guided tours.
- Capitol buildings and lawns - well-kept grounds and memorials.
- Nearby museums and memorials - cultural spots clustered around the campus.
Downtown & Percival Landing
Percival Landing and downtown are the social heart of Olympia: a pleasant waterfront boardwalk, regular markets and a cluster of cafés and galleries. It’s compact and easy to explore on foot, perfect for a relaxed day of shopping, eating and taking in the bay views.
Top Spots
- Percival Landing Park - boardwalk, docks and views over Budd Inlet.
- Olympia Farmers Market - seasonal market with local produce on the waterfront.
- Downtown cafés and galleries - independent shops along the main streets.
South / Tumwater Falls
Just south of Olympia, the Tumwater area and its falls are a popular local getaway with short trails and picnic spots. It’s a good half‑day trip for nature lovers and anyone who wants to pair outdoor walking with a visit to local breweries or a relaxed lunch by the water.
Top Spots
- Tumwater Falls Park - scenic waterfalls and interpretive trails on the Deschutes River.
- Local breweries and taverns - a few well-known small breweries in the area.
- South Sound trails - walking routes following the river and shoreline.
East Bay / West Olympia
Residential East and West Olympia offer quieter streets, marinas and parks and are practical for families and longer stays. They feel more local than touristy and are handy if you want easy access to both downtown attractions and coastal trails without staying in the city centre.
Top Spots
- Hands On Children’s Museum - family-friendly hands-on exhibits (downtown edge).
- Neighborhood parks and marinas - small marinas and local green spaces.
- Local restaurants on East Bay Drive - family-run eateries and cafés.
Plan Your Visit to Olympia, Washington #
Best Time to Visit Olympia, Washington #
The best time to visit Olympia is June through September, when dry, mild weather makes the waterfront, trails, and outdoor festivals most enjoyable. Winters are cool and very wet, while spring brings blooming rhododendrons and variable rain.
Best Time to Visit Olympia, Washington #
Olympia, Washington's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Mediterranean - Warm-Summer Mediterranean climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 1°C to 25°C. Abundant rainfall (1276 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (189 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (153 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (137 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 11°C. The driest month with just 21 mm.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is the warmest month with highs of 25°C and lows of 11°C. Light rainfall and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (199 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of 1°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (201 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
How to Get to Olympia, Washington
Olympia is easiest to reach via Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA); Olympia Regional Airport (OLM) is nearby but mainly for general aviation and limited commercial service. Surface connections include Amtrak's Olympia-Lacey station and several intercity and local bus services.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA): SEA is the main gateway for Olympia. From Sea‑Tac you can take a shared shuttle (e.g., Shuttle Express) to Olympia - typical one‑way fares run around $30-$50 and journey time is roughly 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. Driving or a rental car via I‑5 is about 1-1.5 hours; rideshares and taxis from SEA to downtown Olympia commonly cost in the $50-$120 range depending on demand.
Olympia Regional Airport (OLM): OLM primarily handles general aviation and limited scheduled/commercial service. The airport is close to downtown Olympia (roughly a 10-15 minute drive); taxis or rideshares to downtown are typically $10-$30. If you have a private flight or charter, a rental car or local taxi is the most convenient way into the city.
Train: The Amtrak Cascades line stops at the Olympia-Lacey station (serving Lacey/Olympia). Typical one‑way fares between Seattle and Olympia vary by advance purchase and class but commonly fall in the ~$15-$35 range; travel time from Seattle is usually around 1-2 hours. From the Olympia-Lacey station downtown you can catch Intercity Transit buses or a short taxi/ride to reach the city centre (10-20 minutes).
Bus: Intercity Transit is the local bus network serving Olympia and surrounding Thurston County; single fares are modest (commonly around $1-$2.50) and routes connect downtown, neighborhoods, and major hubs like the Olympia Transit Center. For intercity travel, carriers such as Greyhound or FlixBus run services along I‑5 between Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia and Portland - fares often range from $8-$25 one‑way and trip times are typically 1-2 hours depending on origin and stops.
How to Get Around Olympia, Washington
Olympia is compact enough that walking and local buses cover most visitors' needs, while a car is useful for exploring the wider Thurston County and the Puget Sound coast. For most arrivals the combination of Amtrak or intercity buses plus Intercity Transit (or a short rideshare) provides a convenient, car‑optional way into and around the city.
- Intercity Transit (local buses) ($1-$2.50) - Intercity Transit runs the local bus network across Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater and is the backbone of public transport in Thurston County. Routes converge on the downtown Transit Center and serve major destinations such as state offices and hospitals; service frequency is decent on main corridors but can be sparse evenings/weekends. Buy single fares on board or use the local fare card; expect short rides within city limits to cost around $1-$2.50.
- Amtrak Cascades (train) ($15-$35) - Amtrak Cascades connects Olympia-Lacey with Seattle and Portland and is a comfortable option if you prefer rail over driving. Trains are reliable for avoiding I‑5 traffic and offer amenities like Wi‑Fi and restrooms; book in advance for the best fares. Expect one‑way fares typically in the ~$15-$35 range and journey times to nearby city hubs of roughly 1-2 hours depending on origin.
- Intercity / Long‑distance Bus (Greyhound, FlixBus) ($8-$25) - Intercity carriers on I‑5 provide budget travel between Olympia, Seattle, Tacoma and Portland. These buses are cheaper than driving solo and frequently stop at central locations; schedules can be limited outside peak times. Fares commonly range from about $8-$25 and travel times are comparable to driving depending on traffic and stops.
- Car rental / Driving ($35-$80/day) - Driving is the most flexible way to get around and to reach surrounding attractions (state parks, Puget Sound coastline). Rental rates vary seasonally, typically starting around $35-$80/day; downtown parking is available but can be limited or metered in parts of the city. Keep I‑5 congestion in mind during weekday peak hours - allow extra time for trips to/from Sea‑Tac or Tacoma.
- Rideshare & Taxis ($8-$120) - Uber and Lyft operate in Olympia and are handy for short hops, airport transfers or when buses aren't convenient. Short in‑city trips are inexpensive; airport rides (from Sea‑Tac) are more expensive and vary with demand. Taxis and rideshares are reliable for nights and tight schedules but can surge during events or bad weather.
- Walking - Downtown Olympia is compact and very walkable - many state buildings, shops, restaurants and the waterfront are within easy walking distance. Walking is the best way to explore the Capitol campus, farmer's market and shoreline; wear comfortable shoes for the hilly sections and expect wet weather in cooler months.
Where to Stay in Olympia, Washington #
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Olympia - Budget-friendly, basic comforts.
- Local motels and inns - Economical options around I‑5.
- Olympia Marriott at Capitol - Comfortable, near downtown.
- Hotel RL by Red Lion Olympia - Good mid-range near waterfront.
- Heritage Park Hotel Olympia - Boutique higher-end stay.
- Olympia Marriott at Capitol - Upscale service and rooms.
- Olympia Marriott at Capitol - Walkable to museums and park.
- Heritage Park Hotel Olympia - Close to historic downtown.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Olympia - Family rooms and suites available.
- Olympia Marriott at Capitol - Larger rooms, family amenities.
- Olympia Marriott at Capitol - Business center, dependable Wi‑Fi.
- Heritage Park Hotel Olympia - Quieter boutique option with amenities.
Where to Eat in Olympia, Washington #
Olympia eats like a Pacific Northwest small city: seafood and seasonal produce are front and center. The Olympia Farmers Market and harbor restaurants show off local oysters, salmon and foraged greens, while downtown and East Bay offer Thai, Vietnamese and Mexican options cooked with Pacific Northwest ingredients. Vegetarians are well served by bakeries, co‑op cafés and farm‑to‑table spots.
- Downtown Olympia cafés - Brunch, seafood chowders and local beers.
- Farmer's Market (Olympia) - Seasonal Pacific Northwest produce and prepared foods.
- Harbor restaurants - Fresh local seafood and oysters.
- East Bay and downtown eateries - Thai, Vietnamese and Mexican family restaurants.
- Seafood-centric restaurants - Oysters, clam chowder and grilled salmon.
- Small global bistros - Creative international plates with local ingredients.
- Bread Peddler - Bakery café with vegetarian sandwiches and pastries.
- Local co-op cafés - Whole-food bowls and plant-based options.
- Farmers Market vendors - Seasonal produce used in veggie dishes.
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Olympia, Washington's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Olympia, Washington #
Olympia’s nightlife is compact, creative and community-focused - low-key bars, craft breweries and live-music venues dominate, especially around the downtown and historic Capitol district. The Washington Center organizes many evening performances; craft beer culture is strong and many venues host rotating events. Expect informal dress, early-to-midnight closings on weeknights and later hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
Best Bets
- The Washington Center for the Performing Arts - Regular concerts, comedy and community performances.
- Downtown/Capitol district - Main cluster of bars, breweries and late-night eateries.
- Local breweries & taprooms - Active craft-beer scene with rotating guest taps.
- Small live-music venues - Intimate venues with local bands and touring acts.
- Capitol Theater & event spaces - Occasional larger concerts and cultural nights.
- Neighborhood bars and late-night diners - Good for relaxed late dinners and friendly crowds.
Shopping in Olympia, Washington #
Olympia shoppers split time between the waterfront farmers’ market and small downtown boutiques. The Olympia Farmers Market (near the Port Plaza) is the city’s best source for local produce, seafood and artisan food goods; downtown 4th Avenue and Capitol Way house independent bookstores, galleries and gift shops. For big-box retail and major stores head to nearby Lacey’s Capital Mall. Market stalls tend to negotiate; stores generally have fixed prices.
Best Bets
- Olympia Farmers Market - Top source for Pacific Northwest produce, seafood and crafts.
- Downtown Olympia (Capitol Way & 4th) - Independent boutiques, galleries and coffee shops.
- Percival Landing artisan stalls - Waterfront stalls and occasional craft vendors.
- Capital Mall (nearby Lacey) - Regional shopping mall with national retail chains.
- Local antique & vintage stores - Good spots for unique homewares and retro finds.
- Seasonal & pop‑up markets - Check local listings for night markets and craft fairs.
Digital Nomads in Olympia, Washington #
Olympia is a relaxed Pacific Northwest pick: slower pace, easy nature access, and a community-oriented scene rather than a high-turnover nomad crowd. For short stays, many nationalities use ESTA (up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program); longer visits can be on B‑2 visitor status (typically up to six months) or relevant work visas.
Budget-wise, plan about $1,800-$2,800 per month for a single remote worker (rent, groceries, local transport, occasional coworking). Broadband is solid from Comcast and mobile carriers - downtown users commonly report 100-300 Mbps; libraries and coffee shops provide dependable backups.
- The Foundry (makerspace) - tools + desks, community-driven makerspace
- Timberland Regional Library - Olympia - quiet study areas, free public Wi‑Fi
- Olympia Coffee Roasting cafés - good uptime, local coffee chain ambience
- Capitol Campus cafés - near government offices, reliable Wi‑Fi
- Regus / Business Centre options - flexible day offices, downtown locations
- Comcast Xfinity - widely available, common 100-500 Mbps plans
- T‑Mobile / Verizon home - mobile home internet option, variable speeds
- Public library Wi‑Fi - stable for meetings, limited upload speeds
- Cellular 5G in core areas - good for backups, speeds vary by provider
- Meetup: Olympia Tech & Startups - small groups, monthly events
- Thurston County library events - workshops, community talks, networking opportunities
- Olympia Coffee meetups - informal networking over coffee
- Local makerspace programs - skill-swaps, collaborative projects
- State government / nonprofit meetups - policy and civic tech gatherings
Demographics
