bigtravelbuzzOlympia is the capital city of the state of Washington in the United States. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Olympia:
Washington State Capitol: The Washington State Capitol is the centerpiece of Olympia, and is a must-see attraction for visitors to the city. The building features stunning architecture and a dome that offers incredible views of the city.
Hands On Children’s Museum: The Hands On Children’s Museum is a fun and interactive museum that is perfect for families with children. The museum features exhibits that encourage children to explore, play, and learn.
Tumwater Falls Park: Tumwater Falls Park is a beautiful park that features a waterfall, walking trails, and picnic areas. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Percival Landing Park: Percival Landing Park is a waterfront park that features a boardwalk, marina, and public art. The park is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the views of Puget Sound.
Olympia Farmers Market: The Olympia Farmers Market is a popular attraction that features local produce, crafts, and live music. The market is open on weekends and is a great place to experience the local culture.
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge: The Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary that is home to a variety of birds, mammals, and other wildlife. The refuge features walking trails and observation areas that offer great opportunities for wildlife viewing.
These are just a few of the many things to see and do in Olympia. The city is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural attractions of the Pacific Northwest.
Places to Visit in Olympia
Olympia, the capital city of Washington State, has a number of attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top places to visit in Olympia:
Washington State Capitol: The Washington State Capitol is the heart of the city and is home to the state government. The building is an impressive sight to behold, with stunning architecture and a dome that offers panoramic views of the city.
Hands On Children’s Museum: This interactive museum is perfect for families with young children. The museum features exhibits that encourage hands-on learning and exploration.
Olympic Flight Museum: Aviation enthusiasts will love the Olympic Flight Museum, which showcases historic aircraft and memorabilia.
Tumwater Falls Park: This beautiful park is home to a waterfall and is a great place to go for a walk or have a picnic. There are also walking trails that provide scenic views of the area.
Percival Landing Park: This waterfront park is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the views of Puget Sound. There is a boardwalk, marina, and public art to explore.
Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge: This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of birds, mammals, and other wildlife. The refuge features walking trails and observation areas that offer great opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Wolf Haven International: This wildlife sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of wolves and offers tours and educational programs.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Olympia. The city has a lot to offer visitors of all ages and interests.
Best Time To Visit Olympia
The best time to visit Olympia depends on what activities and weather conditions you prefer. The city experiences a marine west coast climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip:
Summer: June to August is the peak tourist season in Olympia, with warm temperatures and low rainfall. This is the best time to visit if you plan to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, or attending festivals and events.
Fall: September to November is also a good time to visit Olympia, with pleasant temperatures and colorful fall foliage. This is a great time to explore local parks and nature reserves.
Winter: December to February is the low season in Olympia, with cool temperatures and frequent rain. However, if you don’t mind the rain, this is a good time to take advantage of lower hotel rates and fewer crowds.
Spring: March to May is another good time to visit Olympia, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. This is a great time to explore local gardens and parks.
Overall, the best time to visit Olympia is during the summer months when the weather is warm and dry. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are also good options.
How to get around in Olympia
Olympia is a relatively small city, so it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. However, if you need to travel farther or prefer other modes of transportation, here are some options:
Car: Olympia has several car rental agencies, and driving is the most convenient way to explore the surrounding areas. There are several parking lots and garages in the downtown area.
Bus: Intercity Transit operates bus routes throughout Olympia and the surrounding area, including downtown Olympia, Lacey, and Tumwater. Fares are affordable, and there are discounted rates for seniors, students, and people with disabilities.
Taxi and ride-sharing services: Olympia has several taxi companies and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, which are convenient for short trips around the city.
Bike: Olympia has several bike lanes and trails, and the city is very bike-friendly. There are several bike rental companies in the downtown area.
Overall, Olympia is an easy city to get around in, and there are several transportation options to choose from depending on your needs and preferences.
Where to eat in Olympia
Olympia has a diverse food scene, with many restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Here are some popular places to eat in Olympia:
5th Avenue Sandwich Shop: This sandwich shop has been a local favorite since 1982, serving classic deli sandwiches and salads.
Darby’s Cafe: This cozy cafe serves breakfast and lunch with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients. Their menu includes vegan and gluten-free options.
Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar: This waterfront restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and has a beautiful view of the Puget Sound. Their menu includes oysters, clams, mussels, and other seafood dishes.
Basilico Ristorante: This Italian restaurant serves homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and other classic Italian dishes. Their menu includes vegetarian and gluten-free options.
The Reef: This Caribbean-themed restaurant serves jerk chicken, fried plantains, and other island-inspired dishes. They also have a full bar with tropical cocktails.
Well 80 Brewhouse: This brewpub serves craft beer and pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They also offer live music and events.
These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Olympia. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American food, international cuisine, or fresh seafood, there’s something for everyone in Olympia.
Famous street stalls in Olympia
Olympia doesn’t have a big street food culture like some larger cities, but there are still some great food trucks and stands to check out. Here are some popular street stalls in Olympia:
The Dogfather: This food truck serves classic hot dogs and sausages with a variety of toppings, including chili, cheese, onions, and more.
Three Magnets Brewing Co: This brewery has a food truck in their outdoor seating area serving burgers, fries, and other pub fare. They also have a rotating selection of craft beer on tap.
El Sarape: This food truck serves delicious Mexican food, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Their menu includes vegetarian and vegan options.
The Wicked Pies: This food truck specializes in wood-fired pizzas with unique toppings like goat cheese and fig jam or roasted garlic and spinach.
Espresso Parts Cafe: This coffee shop has a food truck in their parking lot serving breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and other breakfast items. They also have a full coffee menu.
These street stalls are just a few of the many great food options in Olympia. While there aren’t as many street stalls in Olympia compared to larger cities, the ones that do exist offer delicious food and a unique experience.
Where to stay in Olympia
Luxury accommodation
If you’re looking for luxury accommodations in Olympia, there are a few options to choose from. Here are some top choices:
The Governor Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Olympia and offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities. The hotel also has a fitness center, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with views of the city.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Olympia: This hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with elegant furnishings and modern amenities. The hotel also has a restaurant, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
Hotel RL Olympia by Red Lion: This boutique hotel features contemporary rooms and suites with unique artwork and stylish furnishings. The hotel also has a restaurant, a fitness center, and a seasonal outdoor pool.
The Westin Olympia: This hotel features comfortable rooms and suites with upscale amenities and views of Capitol Lake. The hotel also has a fitness center, a restaurant, and an indoor pool.
These luxury accommodations offer a high level of comfort and amenities, and are located in convenient locations for exploring Olympia. They are perfect for travelers looking for a luxurious stay in the city.
Where to stay in Olympia
Budget accommodation
If you’re looking for budget accommodations in Olympia, there are a few options to choose from. Here are some top choices:
Olympia Inn: This hotel offers affordable rooms with basic amenities like a microwave, refrigerator, and cable TV. The hotel also has free parking and Wi-Fi.
Motel 6 Olympia, WA: This budget-friendly motel offers simple, yet comfortable rooms with amenities like cable TV and free Wi-Fi. The motel also has a seasonal outdoor pool.
Red Lion Inn & Suites Olympia: This hotel offers affordable rooms with amenities like a microwave, refrigerator, and cable TV. The hotel also has a fitness center and free breakfast.
Extended Stay America Olympia – Tumwater: This hotel offers affordable rooms with a fully equipped kitchen, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a fitness center and a laundry facility.
These budget accommodations are perfect for travelers looking for a comfortable stay in Olympia without breaking the bank. They offer basic amenities and convenient locations for exploring the city.
Travel Tips Olympia
Here are some travel tips for visiting Olympia:
Visit in the summer: The best time to visit Olympia is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and there are many outdoor events and activities to enjoy.
Explore the outdoors: Olympia is known for its beautiful parks and natural scenery. Be sure to visit places like Capitol Lake, Priest Point Park, and Tumwater Falls Park for great hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
Visit the State Capitol: Olympia is the capital city of Washington State, and the State Capitol is a must-see attraction. Take a tour of the Capitol Building and visit the Legislative Building and Governor’s Mansion.
Check out the local art scene: Olympia has a thriving arts community, with many galleries, museums, and festivals to explore. Check out the Olympia Farmers Market, the Olympia Arts Walk, or the Hands On Children’s Museum.
Try local cuisine: Olympia is known for its fresh seafood, craft beer, and local produce. Be sure to try local favorites like oysters, salmon, and Dungeness crab, as well as the many local microbreweries and wineries.
Use public transportation: Olympia has a good public transportation system, including buses and trains. Consider using public transportation to save money and avoid traffic.
Plan ahead: Olympia can be a popular destination, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and book accommodations, tours, and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.