Olympia Washington

Olympia balances its seriousness as the state capital with a notorious funkiness and laid back, indie vibe.

Straddling Capitol Lake and Budd Inlet, miles of waterfront around downtown Olympia make for long walks and great views: Percival Landing, with its mile-long boardwalk, hosts one of the biggest farmers markets in the state with views of the Capitol Building and the Olympic Mountains.

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Capitol Lake also offers a 1.7 idyllic loop popular with walkers, joggers, and birdwatchers. Within walking distance of both is Olympia’s historic district, a quaint downtown full of curiosities and coffee shops.

Olympia is a haven for artists, too, with murals on walls throughout the city, art walks, galleries, theaters, and music venues. Acclaimed restaurants take up prime real estate along the waterfront, while an incredible assortment of dining opportunities abound downtown.

Unique Experiences in Olympia

Percival Landing - With a mile-long boardwalk along the waterfront, plus pavilions, a playground, grassy areas, and Swantown Marina in proximity to Downtown Olympia, Percival Landing is a popular destination for strolls, picnics, and gatherings any time of year. After appreciating the scenery, enjoy it from a table at one of the popular seafood restaurants overlooking Budd Inlet.
Arts Tours - Be on the lookout for murals that span the sides of buildings, traffic box art wraps, and random acts of poetry that make this city an arts haven. Take a self-guided tour of the murals, starting at the New Traditions Fair Trade Gallery Building, with stops at the rainbow wings mural at the Estate Store and “You Are Here” at the Cascadia Grill, and many others along the way. Appreciate Olympia’s poetry scene with a self-guided tour of installations or experiences, including words near the farmers market that only appear when water is poured on the bricks. In spring and fall, catch Arts Walk Olympia for gallery openings, craft demonstrations, kids’ activities, and more.
State Capitol Tours - Gain an appreciation of the legislative process by perusing the grounds and botanical gardens of the state capital. Take in the magnificent architecture of the 42nd state’s legislative building on a free tour. Tour the Governor’s Mansion, the Georgian building that’s been home to Washington’s leaders since 1910, and learn more about the Foundation. (Be sure to check in advance for tour availability.)
Olympia Farmers Market - This epic market hosts over 100 vendors selling produce, crafts, and artisanal foods from around the region, as well as restaurants and live musicians. Open Thursday–Sunday April–October, Saturday-Sunday in November and December, and Saturdays in the winter.
Shopping - Unique independent shops are a hallmark of Olympia. Window-shop and patronize downtown Olympia businesses like Hot Toddy, known for their vintage-style women’s clothing; Archibald Sisters, where you can concoct your own cologne; the 5th Avenue Flea Market, a glorious collection of unique finds; Browsers Book Shop; Captain Little, with its huge selection of kids gifts; Childhood’s End art gallery; Bittersweet Chocolates; Psychic Sisters’ practical magic store; Compass Rose gift shop… and the list goes on. Click here for a complete list of Olympia stores.
Squaxin Park - Located along the saltwater shores of Ellis Cove, Squaxin Park (formerly Priest Point Park) is a 314 acre park and the ideal spot to experience the natural beauty of the northwest. With more than four miles of hiking trails, nearly two miles of saltwater shoreline, a playground, and both small and large picnic shelters, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Squaxin Park is also home to a wide variety of animals.
Artesian Well - Located on the edge of a parking lot next to a pet store, it’s easy to miss, but look for the cobalt and white mosaic—and usually someone standing around with a jug. Flowing out of a pipe is pure water from an aquifer that historically gave Olympia-made beer its reputation (“It’s The Water”). Fill up your water bottle before a long walk around town.

Explore the Arts in Downtown Olympia

The natural beauty of Olympia and its surrounding communities naturally inspires creative expression in many forms. From art galleries, local craftsmen, and performance art to live music and The Olympia Symphony Orchestra, there’s no shortage of cultural appreciation.