10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Olympia, Washington
If you’re planning a trip to
Olympia, Washington in Thurston County, you’re in for a treat. This small capital city packs in a surprising amount of nature, culture, and quirky local flavor. Whether you’re road-tripping from Seattle or flying in from across the country, Olympia is a laid-back base for exploring the
South Puget Sound and the southern gateway to
Olympic National Park.
Below are
10 easy, fun things to do in and near Olympia that work for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
1. Stroll the Washington State Capitol Campus
Olympia is the capital of Washington, so you can’t miss a visit to the
Washington State Capitol.
The main building, with its tall dome, looks a bit like a smaller, greener version of the U.S. Capitol. You can:
- Walk the landscaped grounds with views of Capitol Lake and the water
- Take a free tour of the Capitol building (check current hours before you go)
- Step inside and look up at the stunning rotunda ceiling
- Visit the memorials and statues scattered around the campus
If you’re into photography, sunrise or late afternoon light on the dome is beautiful. I once spent almost an hour just wandering, watching locals jog past government buildings like it was the most normal thing in the world.
2. Walk the Olympia Waterfront & Percival Landing
For a classic “this is Olympia” experience, head down to the
Olympia waterfront and
Percival Landing Park.
Here you’ll find:
- A wide wooden boardwalk along the harbor
- Views of sailboats, working boats, and the marina
- Public art and sculptures along the path
- Benches perfect for people-watching or sipping coffee
It’s an easy, flat walk—great if you’re traveling with kids or older relatives. Grab a latte at a nearby café, stroll along the water, and watch the gulls and seals. On a clear day you can catch a glimpse of the Olympics in the distance.
Parking is usually pretty straightforward, and it’s walking distance to downtown restaurants and shops.
3. Explore the Hands On Children’s Museum
Traveling with kids? Put the
Hands On Children’s Museum at the top of your Olympia itinerary.
This isn’t one of those “look but don’t touch” museums. Everything here is meant to be played with, climbed on, and explored. You’ll find:
- Indoor play areas for different ages
- Water play stations (bring a change of clothes for little ones)
- Outdoor discovery space with forts, sand, and nature play
- Creative art and building zones
It’s right by the waterfront, so one easy option is to park once, let the kids run wild at the museum, then walk Percival Landing afterward. Families say they can easily spend
2–4 hours here without anyone getting bored.
4. Visit the WET Science Center (Fun, Free, and Surprisingly Interesting)
Just a short walk from the Children’s Museum, the
WET Science Center is one of Olympia’s underrated spots—and it’s usually
free.
Here, “WET” stands for
Water Education and Technology. The center turns what could be a dull topic (wastewater, anyone?) into something kids and adults actually enjoy. Expect:
- Hands-on exhibits about water, conservation, and local ecosystems
- Interactive displays—push buttons, play games, spin wheels
- Short, easy-to-understand explanations of how water systems work
If you’re trying to build an educational angle into your trip, this is a fun, low-pressure stop. Plus, the building has a modern, bright feel that keeps it from feeling like an old-school science museum.
5. Get Outside at Priest Point Park
If you want tall trees, ferns, and that “Pacific Northwest forest smell” without driving an hour into the mountains, head to
Priest Point Park just north of downtown Olympia.
This city park offers:
- Miles of wooded trails through moss-covered forests
- Small viewpoints over Budd Inlet
- Picnic shelters and playgrounds
- Plenty of shade on hot summer days
Trails here range from easy loops to slightly steeper paths, but nothing too scary. It’s a nice place to stretch your legs before or after a long drive on I‑5.
I once stopped here on a rainy afternoon, and the forest was so green it almost didn’t look real. If you like quiet walks and bird calls, it’s worth a visit no matter the weather.
6. Experience the Olympia Farmers Market
If you want a real taste of Thurston County, don’t skip the
Olympia Farmers Market, often called “The Farmers Market of the South Sound.”
Depending on the season, you’ll find:
- Fresh produce from local farms
- Cheeses, baked goods, and jams
- Food stalls serving everything from falafel to seafood
- Handmade crafts, art, and gifts
- Live music on many weekends
Hours vary by season, but it’s typically open several days a week in spring, summer, and early fall. If you’re staying in an Airbnb with a kitchen, this is a great place to stock up on groceries and snacks.
And even if you’re not shopping, it’s fun to grab something to eat, sit at a picnic table, and soak up the local vibe.
7. Take a Day Trip to Olympia National Park’s Southern Gateway (via U.S. 101)
One of the coolest things about Olympia is its location. It sits right at the southern gateway to
Olympic National Park via U.S. Highway 101.
Now, the national park itself is big and spread out, so you won’t see it all in one day. But from Olympia, you can:
- Drive west on U.S. 101 and enjoy scenic views along the way
- Head toward Lake Cushman and the Staircase area (about 1.5 hours, check road conditions)
- Use Olympia as a base before doing a full Olympic Peninsula loop
If you have extra time in your schedule, consider spending a night on the peninsula, then returning to your comfy Olympia hotel. It’s a nice balance of “wild” and “urban” experiences, and you avoid higher coastal prices by staying in town.
8. Discover the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
About a 15–20 minute drive northeast of downtown Olympia, right off I‑5, you’ll find the
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.
This is a peaceful, flat area perfect for walking and wildlife watching. Highlights include:
- Boardwalk trails stretching out over the tidal flats
- Excellent birdwatching—bring binoculars if you have them
- Views of the Nisqually River delta meeting Puget Sound
- Simple, well-marked paths great for almost all fitness levels
It’s a good place to slow down. You’ll hear the sound of birds, the wind over the water, and not much else. If you’re driving between Seattle and Olympia, this is an easy and rewarding stop right off the highway.
9. Sample Local Coffee, Beer, and Downtown Olympia Vibes
Olympia has a relaxed, creative feel, and you really notice it in the
downtown area.
Spend a few hours wandering the streets near the waterfront and you’ll find:
- Independent coffee shops with strong espresso and comfy chairs
- Local breweries and taprooms pouring Washington craft beer
- Vintage stores, bookstores, and record shops
- Murals and public art tucked into side streets and alleys
If you’re a coffee lover, you’re in good hands—this is the Pacific Northwest, after all. It’s easy to imagine living here for a while, writing on your laptop in a café while rain taps on the windows.
For evening plans, check local listings for live music or small theater shows. Olympia has a strong arts scene for its size, thanks in part to The Evergreen State College just outside town.
10. Relax on the Water at Boston Harbor or Burfoot Park
When the weather is nice, locals head to the water. Two easy options near Olympia are:
- Boston Harbor: A small marina area north of town where you can launch kayaks, look for seals, or just enjoy the salty air. In summer, there are often kayaks or paddleboards for rent—always check ahead for current availability.
- Burfoot Park: A wooded park with trails leading down to a pebbly beach. Kids love throwing rocks in the water, and adults love the peaceful views across Budd Inlet.
Nothing here is fancy, and that’s the charm. It feels like a real community spot, not a polished tourist attraction. Bring a light jacket—the water stays cool, even in July and August.
Planning Your Trip to Olympia, WA
To make the most of your Olympia getaway:
- How long to stay: 2–3 days is great for the city and nearby nature. Add more time if you’re exploring Olympic National Park.
- Getting around: A car makes things much easier, especially for Nisqually, Priest Point Park, and the day trips.
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall offers the driest weather and most open attractions. Winter is rainy but quiet and cozy.
Olympia works well as:
- A weekend trip from Seattle or Portland
- A relaxed base for exploring the South Puget Sound area
- A starting point for a bigger Pacific Northwest road trip
What Would You Add to This Olympia Bucket List?
Have you been to
Olympia, Washington or anywhere in
Thurston County?
- Which spot was your favorite?
- Did I miss a great coffee shop, park, or viewpoint?
Scroll down to the comments and share your tips, stories, or questions. Your experience might help someone else plan their own Olympia adventure.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend, pin it for later, or post it to your favorite travel group. The more people discover this laid-back corner of Washington State, the better their Pacific Northwest trips will be.
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