Part of our Washington guide.
This page gathers 4 guides from our Olympia, Washington coverage: natural wonders, relaxing retreats, family-friendly activities, and vibrant festivals. Olympia, Washington—not to be confused with Ancient Olympia, Greece—is the state capital and offers Pacific Northwest scenery and culture.
Related travel guides: Lacey Travel Guide, Tacoma Travel Guide, Federal Way Travel Guide, and Spokane Travel Guide.
12 Stunning Natural Wonders In Olympia, Washington
Olympia’s natural wonders range from old-growth forests to tidal flats. Capitol State Forest, just southwest of the city, offers miles of hiking trails through Douglas fir and cedar. The Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, a short drive east, protects estuary habitats where visitors can spot herons, eagles, and migrating waterfowl. Tumwater Falls Park, within city limits, features a dramatic 82-foot waterfall and salmon runs in the fall. Priest Point Park provides waterfront trails along Budd Inlet, with views of the Olympic Mountains. McLane Creek Nature Trail, a 1.5-mile loop, is known for beaver ponds and spring wildflowers. The Deschutes River runs through the city, offering kayaking and fishing access. Watershed Park, a 40-acre forested ravine in the heart of Olympia, features boardwalks through a cathedral of big-leaf maples and ferns. Capitol Lake, adjoining the state capitol campus, mirrors the dome and is ringed by a 3-mile paved path. The Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area, north of town, shelters a heron rookery and harbor seals. Evergreen State College’s 1,000-acre campus includes a beach, organic farm, and forest trails open to the public. Burfoot Park, on the southern shore of Budd Inlet, offers beach access and picnic areas. Tolmie State Park, eight miles northeast, has a saltwater beach, forest trails, and a replica of a 19th-century logging camp.
8 Relaxing Retreats To Enjoy In Olympia, Washington
For a peaceful getaway, start at the Washington State Capitol Campus, where manicured lawns, a sunken garden, and the 287-foot Legislative Building create a calm setting. The Olympia Farmers Market (open weekends and some weekdays, April through October) is a place to browse local produce, crafts, and flowers along the waterfront. The Hands On Children’s Museum, while family-focused, has a quiet outdoor play garden. The city’s downtown, along Fourth Avenue, offers independent bookshops, coffee houses, and galleries. The Olympia Film Society screens classic and independent films in the historic Capitol Theater. The LOTT Clean Water Alliance’s WET Science Center provides free, hands-on exhibits about water conservation. The Washington Center for the Performing Arts hosts concerts and plays in an intimate 900-seat venue. For a true retreat, book a room at the Inn at Mallard Cove, a bed and breakfast on Budd Inlet with private docks and kayaks.
9 Family-Friendly Activities In Olympia, Washington
Families can explore the Hands On Children’s Museum, which has 150 interactive exhibits including a water-play area and a two-story climber. The museum is located on the downtown waterfront. The WET Science Center is free and lets kids operate a model water cycle. The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge offers a 1-mile boardwalk loop with a viewing tower. The Olympia Farmers Market welcomes children with a dedicated play area. The Washington State Capitol grounds are open for picnics and kite flying. The Olympia Family Theater presents live shows for children and teens. The city’s parks—including Priest Point, Burfoot, and Tolmie—have playgrounds, beaches, and picnic shelters. The Lacey Museum, a short drive away, features hands-on history exhibits. The Evergreen State College’s Geoduck Beach and organic farm are open to the public for exploring tide pools and visiting farm animals.
9 Vibrant Festivals/Events To Attend In Olympia, Washington
Olympia hosts events year-round. The Olympia Film Festival (November) showcases independent films. The Procession of the Species (April) is a community parade with giant puppets and costumes made from natural materials. The Olympia Brewery Festival (June) features craft beers from across Washington. The Lakefair Festival (July) includes a parade, carnival, and fireworks over Capitol Lake. The Harbor Days Festival (September) celebrates the working waterfront with tugboat races and a salmon bake. The Olympia Jazz Festival (May) brings local and national musicians to downtown venues. The Washington State Capital Holiday Parade (December) lights up the capitol campus. The Olympia Arts Walk (spring and fall) opens galleries and studios for two evenings. The Thurston County Fair (August) offers livestock shows, rides, and 4-H exhibits.
