Olympia Fall Guide: Fall Activities in Olympia, WA

1. Explore a fall festival

Celebrate the Tumwater Falls Fest at Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls. During the festivities, visitors can sip a hot cup of coffee, attend an educational talk, watch a live demonstration, and shop local artists, makers, and food vendors. Bring the entire family! There are plenty of activities for children, including face painting and a scavenger hunt.

The Olympia Fall Arts Walk takes place throughout the month of October, offering visitors the opportunity to see a wide variety of artwork, watch live art demos, and go-to special events.

LoveOly Downtown for Halloween in Olympia invites families and kids to participate in a two-week scavenger hunt across downtown businesses, enjoy a festive trick-or-treat experience, and participate in a pet costume contest on October 31, featuring treats, surprises, and community fun.

2. View the Salmon Run in Olympia & Tumwater

Every year in late August, the Chinook Salmon return from their adventures in the Pacific and head back to their spawning grounds along the Deschutes River. Here's how you can view their journey right in downtown Olympia and along the falls at Brewery Park.

3. Fall Fun on the Farms along the Thurston Bountiful Byway

Nothing says fall quite like harvest time on the farm. There’s lots of fall farm fun to be had along the Thurston Bountiful Byway. Wander through a corn maze after picking the perfect pumpkin at Schilter Family Farm & Rutledge Family Farm. Stop at Lattin’s Country Cider Mill & Farm during their annual Apple Festival and Pumpkin Festival to snack on apple fritters and apple cider while pumpkin picking. Then visit the petting zoo filled with adorable farm animals sure to thrill children of all ages.

See the map below for more adventures along the byway!

4. View Fall Foliage and Enjoy Outdoor Art

Outdoor enthusiasts rejoice as Olympia is home to many top-rated and unforgettable trails that turn glorious with autumn foliage.

Hiking is a great way to enjoy the cooler weather and see incredible views of nature. Woodard Bay Conservation Area offers visitors the opportunity to choose their own path with three different hiking trails in the natural area. Follow the trails at Tolmie State Park and Squaxin Park or walk along the shoreline of the Puget Sound. Be on the lookout when hiking along the McLane Creek trail in the Capitol State Forest and you might just spot some beavers. To see a 27-foot waterfall surrounded by orange and yellow foliage hike the out-and-back trail at Deschutes Falls Park in Yelm.

If you prefer biking check out the Chehalis Western trail. This tree lined trail is surrounded by fall foliage and leads bicyclists through an array of habitats. Or bring the family to Yelm-Rainier-Tenino trail for a family bike ride. Head to Monarch Sculpture Park in Yelm to explore their maze and view sculptures against the fall colors.

And of course, a visit to the State Capitol wouldn't be complete without a leisurely stroll through the beautiful landscaping at Sunken Garden to see a variety of perennials and fall foliage, or take a guided tour of the Capitol Campus.

5. Spot Local Wildlife

Whether you’re a birder or just enjoy seeing wildlife, Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, is the perfect place to spot a wide array of critters. During the fall visitors can find over 250 migratory birds, animals, and sea life while walking the trails.

Hike along Deschutes River to witness the migration of Chinook Salmon as they return to their spawning grounds. Be sure to bring a camera as there are plenty of opportunities to get an instagram-worthy photo.

6. Warm up with a cup of coffee

When the crisp fall air gives you a chill, warm up with a cup of coffee from one of our local coffee shops. Order a lavender latte at Ember Goods and pick up iconic PNW goods in their retail store. For a close look at the roasting process head to Olympia Coffee Roasting Co. and explore Olympia's walkable downtown.

7. Relax with a glass of wine

After a day of exploring, unwind on the patio of a local wine bar. Sip on a glass of wine while looking out over Capitol Lake surrounded by yellowing leaves at Swing Wine Bar. Or head to Lacey for a wine tasting at Stottle Winery.

8. Grab Your Goods at the Local Farmer’s Market

There’s nothing like fresh veggies for homemade soups and pot roasts during the crisp fall weather. Embrace the flavors of fall with fresh produce from Thurston County's local farmers markets. Most markets remain open through late September or early October.

9. Enjoy Fall Colors Along the Chehalis Western Trail

Fall in Thurston County is the perfect season to experience the beauty of the Chehalis Western Trail and the Yelm-Rainier-Tenino Trail by bike. Crisp air and vibrant autumn leaves create a colorful backdrop as you ride through forests, farmland, and wetlands. These connected trails stretch for miles, offering both leisurely rides and longer adventures with plenty of scenic views along the way. Whether you’re out for a family outing or a solo ride, cycling these trails is a refreshing way to savor the season.

10. Experience the Fall Magic of the Port of Olympia

The Port of Olympia transforms into a captivating destination as the leaves change and the air cools. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the waterfront, where the vibrant colors of fall are reflected in the calm waters of the Puget Sound. Whether you're strolling along Percival Landing or taking in the view from Billy Frank Jr. Park, you'll be enchanted by nature's autumnal artistry.

11. Explore the Historic Downtown District

Wander through Olympia's charming downtown district, lined with historic buildings and boutique shops. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and browse the unique local stores. Or grab a bite to eat and sip on warm apple cider or a latte at one of the many farm/tide-to-table eateries and cafes.

12. Go for a Scenic Drive

Take a scenic drive through Thurston County and admire the breathtaking fall foliage. Explore the Thurston Bountiful Byway, discover hidden gems along the Olympic Peninsula, or simply enjoy the views of the peaceful countryside.

Credit: photo courtesy of Thurston Talk

13. Watch the Bats at the Old Trestle

While foxes and deer may symbolize fall in animal form, bats are the true spooktacular stars of October. Experience a unique and spooky fall activity by watching the thousands of bats emerge from their roost at the Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area. As guardians of the largest bat-breeding colony in Washington, these fascinating creatures are a sight to behold.

14. Spend Fall on the Water

Olympia may be a boater's paradise in the summer but the region's beauty shines even brighter in the fall. Enjoy the cooler weather, changing leaves, and serene atmosphere as you cruise the South Sound.

Olympia offers visitors and locals endless opportunities to enjoy the season. Check out our things to do and events pages for even more fall fun!