Six Romantic Things to Do in the Olympia Region

Bags packed. ✔️ Reservations made. ✔️ Sitter scheduled. ✔️

The only thing left is a little inspiration to kickstart your romantic getaway to the Olympia region. Do date-night a little different or enjoy a classic romance that will create timeless memories; whatever catches you and your partner's fancy. If you're searching for something special, keep scrolling for adventures in the Olympia region that will be sure to light the spark and have you returning year-after-year.

Whether you're looking for an date in our great outdoors or seeking a cozy restaurant for a scrumptious meal, the Olympia region features a variety of romantic outings that will amaze your special someone. With plenty of charming inns, picturesque parks, and culinary hotspots, Thurston County sets the scene for the perfect real-life romantic comedy.

1. Enjoy sweet dreams at a Bed & Breakfast

Breakfast is served at the Marie Bed and Breakfast in Olympia, Washington

Waterfront views and fresh morning brews make waking up in one of the Olympia region's bed & breakfasts a relaxing, rejuvenating experience. Try a traditional room at the historic Marie B&B or opt for modern amenities in one of their cabin-suites. Gaze off into the sunset along Eld Inlet with waterfront views aplenty and enjoy a handcrafted cabin all to yourself at the Eld House.

Not far from the beautiful Tolmie State Park you'll find an English, Tudor-style home known as The Inn at Mallard Cove. Overlooking the Nisqually Reach Aquatic Reserve, it's the perfect jumping-off point for couples-kayaking and exploration.

Escape to the LazySun LakeHouse Bed and Breakfast in Olympia, where couples can unwind in a tranquil waterfront setting, complete with cozy accommodations and breathtaking views, making it the ideal destination for a romantic retreat. And, if you're searching for something closer to the city, Swantown Inn, located in a quiet neighborhood in the heart of Olympia, will have you and your partner living in luxury.

2. Walk along the whimsical waterfront

A scenic, overhead shot of Tumwater Falls in Brewery Park, WA. visitors stand on an overlook below

Photo by Adam Sawyer

Lean into the dating-profile cliche and take a walk along the whimsical waterways that wind their way through this area. The urban waterfront in downtown Olympia creates a scenic playground for those looking to meander, while boardwalks provide easy access to locations immersed in natural beauty like the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, McLane Creek Nature Trail or Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls. If it's sandy beaches you seek, several dot the Olympia region including Tolmie State Park, Squaxin Park, and Burfoot Park to name a few.

3. Take it slow with dinner and a show

Don't wind up in the drive-thru for dinner. Plan ahead and make special plans for dinner and a show. For ideas for where to eat, follow this link for foodie-delights! From casual dining to upscale eating there's plenty to pick from. As for the show, If it's live entertainment you're after, Harlequin Productions and The Washington Center for the Performing Arts both offer impressive playbills. To enjoy some scenes on the big-screen, head to the Capitol Theater home of the Olympia Film Society or feed-two-birds-with-one-scone and hit up Uptown Lounge and Yelm Cinemas for dinner and a movie under the same roof!

4. Steal a kiss under the world's largest Tiffany chandelier

visitors view the world's largest Tiffany Chandelier at Washington State's Capitol Campus in Olympia, WA

For fans of the Art Deco style, Washington State's Capitol Campus (located in Olympia) is a dream-come-true. Be transported to a time of Gatsby-like glamour and take an especially close look at the lighting throughout the Capitol Building for a treat you can't find anywhere else. Step under the 3rd-largest masonry dome in the world and now you're standing beneath a beautiful chandelier built by the famous Tiffany & Co. that just so happens to be the world's largest. Steal a kiss (and a photo) beneath the chandelier that will last a lifetime.

5. Test your tastebuds together

A man and woman enjoy a beer tasting at a brewery in Olympia, Washington

Be it beer, wine, or liquor, our local makers handcraft some of the best brews from local ingredients. Try something new or go with the tried-and-true. Find your way to the Thurston Bountiful Byway, the region's agritourism adventure for maps and descriptions of all of the places you can grab an artisan drink.

6. Playful Date Spots Around Thurston County

A man volleys the ball back to his partner during a game of pickleball while on a date in the Olympia Region

After wining and dining, you might be in the mood to enjoy some friendly competition and adventure. Start by grabbing paddles for a game of pickleball at 23 Kitchens in Lacey, where couples can rally on well-maintained indoor courts before refueling with a delicious meal on-site.

For a more adventurous twist, head to Cirque Climbing in Lacey. This premier indoor climbing gym offers bouldering and rope climbing routes for all skill levels, making it a perfect spot to challenge each other while cheering one another on. The supportive, energetic atmosphere encourages connection through teamwork and shared accomplishment.

Looking for a casual romantic outing? Make your way to Legends Arcade, where neon-lit games and pinball fun await. Including more than 50 iconic arcade machines, this date night spot offers nostalgic excitement for all couples. Don't miss indulging in a variety of sweet and savory treats by the kitchen and bar area, enjoying warm paninis, chips with a side of caramelized onion dip, and more. Enhance your arcade experience by choosing from a variety of refreshing brews and drinks, including Pacman- and Power Glove-inspired beverages.

Insert Coin in Olympia is another great date night for couples who love gaming, with its wide selection of arcade games and pinball machines. The rotating selection of craft beers and ciders, along with themed cocktails and mocktails plus delicious food, make it the perfect spot to enjoy some friendly competition and quality time together.

Spend the weekend and find dining, lodging, events, festivals and entertainment ideas at www.experienceolympia.com. Make sure to share your best shots with us by tagging social posts #ExperienceOlympia and connect with us on Facebook, and Instagram (@ExperienceOly).

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Experience Olympia & Beyond

Experience Olympia & Beyond is the official destination marketing organization for Thurston County and each of its communities. We are a small but mighty team that’s 100% committed to delivering on our mission, and doing so in keeping with our vision for the future and our values.