The city of Olympia is a compact and bustling place with an abundance of government buildings. They can be found on the Washington State Capitol Campus.
The city’s historic downtown and vibrant waterfront district appeal to tourists and residents. Being the capital of Washington state, Olympia is also known for its cultural and government attractions.
This city is 60 miles south of Seattle and is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the ocean.
Olympia is also known for its diverse culture and people. The state government provides various programs and services to help its residents. In addition, its sustainability makes it an ideal place to live.
In this article, we will be looking at all the best and fun things to do in Olympia, WA.
Where Is Olympia?
The county seat and largest city in Thurston County, as well as the capital of Washington state, Olympia.
It is also a cultural center in the southern portion of the state. This region is 60 miles away from Seattle.
European settlers first claimed the area in 1846. The Treaty of Medicine Creek was signed in 1854, and the Treaty of Olympia was concluded in 1856.
Olympia was incorporated in 1859 and became a city in 1882. At the 2020 census, the city had a population of 55,605. It borders Tumwater and Lacey.
According to the US Census Bureau, the city is 19.68 square miles. It has a land area of 17.82 square miles and a water area of 1.86 square miles.
Are you planning a trip to Washington? Why not check out the various things to do in Kitsap County and things to do in Burlington.
Fun Things to Do in Olympia, WA
There are several outdoor recreation opportunities in the city of Olympia. Some of these include Mount Rainer National Park and Olympic National Park. This region is also known for its beautiful coastline.
These are 21 fun things to do in Olympia, WA;
1. Olympic Flight Museum
One of the most famous attractions in the city of Olympia is the Olympic Flight Museum, which features over 20 vintage aircraft.
This museum is located at the airport in the town, and it features planes, helicopters, and other aircraft used during the Second World War. Most of these are in excellent condition.
Address: This museum is at Building A, Olympia Regional Airport, 7637 Old Hwy 99 SE, Tumwater, WA 98501, USA.
2. Percival Landing Park
Another popular attraction in the city of Olympia is the Percival Landing. This area, which is located on Budd Bay, features a variety of facilities and activities.
These include a playground, boat moorage, and a giant carved Orca.
It is situated at an old steamship wharf, a well-known maritime landmark on the West Coast.
Address: This park is at 217 Thurston Ave NW, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
3. South Sound Estuarium
One of the best things to do in Olympia, WA, is to visit the South Sound Estuarium, a marine education center with two aquariums and various interactive exhibits.
This facility is open to the public on weekends. This is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about marine life in the area.
The South Sound Estuary Association also provides various educational programs to educate visitors about the region’s marine life.
One of these is the Pier Peer program, which allows people to get a close-up look at marine life during the evening.
Address: This attraction is at 309 State Ave NE, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
4. Evergreen Valley Lavender Farm
Another fun thing to do in Olympia, WA, is to visit the Lavender Farm, which is located in the beautiful and scenic area of the Evergreen Valley.
This farm is known for its various products, such as bath products and essential oils.
The farm is frequently used for classes and meetings. It also has seating areas ideal for people to gather around the lavender fields.
This facility grows and sells eleven different lavenders, allowing people to see how the oil is made.
Address: This farm is at 9733 Evergreen Valley Rd SE, Olympia, WA 98513, USA.
5. Olympia Farmers Market
The Olympia Farmers Market, which has been around for over 40 years, is located in the city’s central area.
This is convenient for people who live or are visiting the area and are interested in local food. It also allows them to spend a day with their friends and neighbors.
The market is a popular gathering place that promotes local food and the healthy eating habits of its consumers.
It also allows people to meet the producers and small farmers who make their products. It is a great way to get to know each other and exchange ideas.
Address: The Olympia Farmers Market is at 700 Capitol Way N, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
6. Millersylvania State Park
Millersylvania State Park is a beautiful location that is close to Olympia.
It features 800 acres of freshwater shoreline and has various trails that go through old-growth fir and cedar trees.
This park is both historic and lovely. It is also an excellent place for people who are interested in camping.
The park’s origins can be traced back to 1921, when the Miller family gave it to the state. In 1935, the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the buildings in the park.
Millersylvania State Park is a beautiful location that is close to Olympia.
It features 800 acres of freshwater shoreline and has various trails that go through old-growth fir and cedar trees.
This park is both historic and lovely. It is also an excellent place for people who are interested in camping.
The park’s origins can be traced back to 1921, when the Miller family gave it to the state. In 1935, the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the buildings in the park.
This facility features campsites and cabins. This is one of the best things to do in Olympia, WA.
Address: This attraction is at 12245 Tilley Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512, USA.
7. Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
The Nisqually River Delta is one of the important estuaries in Washington, protected for wildlife. In 1974, it was established as a national wildlife refuge.
In 2009, the area was restored, and the removal of the dikes was completed. This project has helped protect the area’s wildlife habitats and improve its fish diversity.
The restoration project was necessary to connect the Nisqually River Delta with the tidal and freshwater flows of the nearby Puget Sound.
This area is a vital part of the region’s recovery efforts. It supports a wide variety of habitats, and the freshwater from the river flows into the area’s saltwater.
This mixture of nutrients and organic matter provides a rich environment for sea life.
Address: This Wildlife Refuge is at Building 100 Brown Farm Rd NE, Olympia, WA 98516, USA.
If you’re thinking of visiting Washington, we suggest you also check out things to do in Coupeville and things to do in Anacortes.
8. Hands On Children’s Museum
The Hands On Children’s Museum was founded in 1987 to provide kids with an opportunity to develop their creativity and imagination.
It features various interactive exhibits and programs designed to encourage learning.
Address: This attraction is at Building 414 Jefferson St NE, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
9. WET Science Center
WET Science Center offers hands-on exhibits and programs designed to provide people with an opportunity to learn more about water.
This facility also conducts tours and offers various activities for families.
Most of the games and activities offered at the facility are designed for children aged ten and older.
However, some exhibits cover wastewater treatment and the water cycle. In addition, there are also video games that are designed to teach kids about water conservation.
Address: The WET Science Center is at 500 Adams Street Northeast, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
10. Washington Center for the Performing Arts
The largest performing arts facility in South Puget Sound is the Washington Center for the Arts.
This facility is located in Olympia and features a variety of cultural and educational activities.
While the center mainly presents international and national artists during its season, it also aims to support local performing arts groups.
The Washington Center for the Arts was established in 1985 as a replacement for the Liberty Theater.
It features a gallery area for local artists. Visiting this facility is one of the most exciting things in Olympia, WA.
Address: This attraction is at 512 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
11. Bigelow House Museum
The Bigelow House Museum is one of the oldest private houses in the region.
It was constructed in 1850 for Daniel R. Bigelow and his wife, and it features a variety of features inspired by the Carpenter Gothic style.
This type of architecture was popular during the 1800s in rural America.
Daniel and Ann Elizabeth were prominent individuals in Washington.
The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the state of Washington and early Olympia. It features various artifacts and original furnishings.
Address: This attraction is at 918 Glass Ave NE, Olympia, WA 98506, USA.
12. Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve
In 1976, the Mima mounds were protected by the National Park Service. This area is located in the Mima National Preserve.
It features 637 acres of forest land and grasslands covered in Mima mounds.
This natural area is a great place to learn more about the various aspects of geology and the Native American history of the area.
Address: This attraction is at 12315 Waddell Creek Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512, USA.
13. McLane Creek Nature Trail
The McLane Creek Nature Trail is an excellent place to spend time with the various animals in this natural area. This trail features a beautiful and well-designed walk.
This area is also an excellent place to visit for bird enthusiasts. This trail allows people to explore the area and see various natural features.
It features different areas designed to provide visitors with an enjoyable experience.
Address: The McLane Creek Nature Trail is in Olympia, Washington 98512, USA
14. Capitol State Forest
The Capitol State Forest is also a popular recreation area. It features various activities for people, such as horseback riding, off-road vehicle riding, and mountain biking.
This area is located outside Olympia and is a great place to visit for those passionate about nature.
Address: The Capitol State Forest is located in Olympia, WA 98512, USA.
15. Marathon Park
People interested in walking, running, or bird watching can take a trip to the Capitol State Forest. This area is also an excellent place to visit for those passionate about nature.
The Marathon Park was constructed in 1970. It is located near the main campus of the University of Washington and the downtown area of Olympia. This park covers an area of about 2.25-acre.
Address: This attraction is at 1011 Deschutes Pkwy SW, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
16. Woodard Bay Conservation Area
Just minutes from Olympia, the Woodard Bay Conservation Area is an excellent place for people passionate about animals and nature.
This 870-acre area features three different hiking trails designed to provide people with an enjoyable experience.
One of these is a paved road, while the other two are forest loop trails. The last trail is a barrier-free area that overlooks Woodard Bay.
Address: The Woodard Bay Conservation Area is located in Olympia, WA 98506, USA.
17. Tolmie State Park
Tolmie State Park is one of the best places to visit for people passionate about nature.
This marine day-use park is located on Nisqually Beach and features over a thousand feet of shoreline.
It is also a great place to enjoy low-key activities such as beachcombing and sunbathing.
Address: The Tolmie State Park is at 7730 61st Ave NE, Olympia, WA, USA.
18. Priest Point Park
Priest Point Park is a beautiful recreation area that combines the beauty of Washington State’s environment with its history.
It has been known that various tribes used the land for trading and other activities. This area is also an excellent place for people passionate about history.
Address: This attraction is at 2600 East Bay Drive Northeast, Olympia, WA 98506, USA.
19. Lattin’s Country Cider Mill & Farm
Since 1956, Lattin’s Country Cider Mill and Farm has provided customers with fresh fruits and vegetables in Olympia.
This family-owned business works with other local farms in Washington to produce high-quality cider.
During the summer season, they make around 4,000 gallons of cider per week and deliver it to stores on the West Coast.
Address: The Lattin’s Country Cider Mill & Farm is at 9402 Rich Rd SE, Olympia, WA 98501.
20. East Bay Public Plaza
People interested in learning more about the environment in Olympia can visit the East Bay Public Plaza.
This area, open from dawn to dusk, features various exhibits celebrating water’s importance.
Address: The East Bay Public Plaza is at 325 Marine Dr. NE, Olympia, WA 98501, USA.
21. Medicine Creek Winery
Medicine Creek Vineyard is a small winery located in the Nisqually Valley. It features a tasting room open on weekends from noon to 5 pm.
This room is situated inside a barn with a fully restored 1865 stagecoach. The other areas of the facility include the wine processing area and the dance floor.
Address: Medicine Creek Vineyard is located at 947 Old Pacific Hwy SE, Olympia, WA 98513, USA.
If you will be visiting Washington, try and also learn about things to do in La Conner and things to do in Bainbridge Island.
When is the Best Time to Visit Olympia, WA?
The best time to visit Olympia is between May and September. This is when the weather is more pleasant and allows one to explore the state’s natural beauty.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit Olympia, WA?
The average cost of a seven-day trip to Olympia is around $1,676 for a single individual, and estimated to be around $3,000 for a couple and $5,700 for a family of four.
The area has various accommodations that can accommodate different types of people.