One Day in Olympia
At the southernmost tip of Puget Sound, Washington's capital city of Olympia is small, friendly, scenic and has more than enough attractions to keep curious visitors engaged for a day or longer. Easily explored on foot, Olympia has become one of my family's favorite day trip destinations. We usually begin our journey at the Olympia Farmers Market, head south through Percival Landing - a historic waterfront that's now a park - and end up at the State Capitol Campus. If we feel like expanding our reach, we drive out to Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge for a wetlands hike and a tour of the visitor center. And bring your appetite - Olympia is a foodie destination with plenty of great choices for three square meals and noshing in between.
If you are in or near Olympia, there's no need to book a hotel for your day trip, but if you're traveling more than a few hours to get there, you might consider a hotel. Phoenix Inn Suites is located in the heart of town next to Percival Landing Waterfront Park and within walking distance to most in-city attractions and restaurants. Th... More >
If you are in or near Olympia, there's no need to book a hotel for your day trip, but if you're traveling more than a few hours to get there, you might consider a hotel. Phoenix Inn Suites is located in the heart of town next to Percival Landing Waterfront Park and within walking distance to most in-city attractions and restaurants. The rooms are spacious, clean and an excellent value.
Open April through December, Olympia Farmers Market is the center of this city's fresh, local food universe. This sheltered market is perfect for browsing, sampling everything from salmon jerkey to blackberry tarts, and, of course shopping for gifts from hand-crafted soaps to artisan jewelry. Food vendors offer a variety of fare, so co... More >
Open April through December, Olympia Farmers Market is the center of this city's fresh, local food universe. This sheltered market is perfect for browsing, sampling everything from salmon jerkey to blackberry tarts, and, of course shopping for gifts from hand-crafted soaps to artisan jewelry. Food vendors offer a variety of fare, so consider timing your visit for lunchtime. Gardeners can stroll the perennial garden and find inspiration, and plants, for those garden projects at home.
The capitol building is open to tours and volunteers are on hand to show you around and share some interesting trivia about the 1928 building, which has survived three major earthquakes.
What's more irrestistible than the aroma of warm handcrafted bread and baked goods right out of the oven? The Bread Peddler is an artisan bakery that offers a counter overflowing with French-inspired breads and pastries and serves meals from a full cafe menu featuring fresh goodness right out of the bakery. The Bread Peddler is a great... More >
What's more irrestistible than the aroma of warm handcrafted bread and baked goods right out of the oven? The Bread Peddler is an artisan bakery that offers a counter overflowing with French-inspired breads and pastries and serves meals from a full cafe menu featuring fresh goodness right out of the bakery. The Bread Peddler is a great stop for a morning coffee break, delectable casual lunch, or an afternoon sweet treat.
This park borders Olympia's historic waterfront for several blocks and is lined with restaurants and marina's. It's a great place for a stroll, a meal, and if the clouds break, a stunning view of the Olympic Mountains across Budd Inlet. I like to begin at the north end of the park near the Olympia Farmers Market and work my way south t... More >
This park borders Olympia's historic waterfront for several blocks and is lined with restaurants and marina's. It's a great place for a stroll, a meal, and if the clouds break, a stunning view of the Olympic Mountains across Budd Inlet. I like to begin at the north end of the park near the Olympia Farmers Market and work my way south toward the capitol building (you can't miss it). At the south end of Percival Landing, you'll see Sandman, a 100-year-old tugboat open for tours - do step aboard and look around.
The parklike grounds of the Capitol Campus is worth the walk (or drive) uphill. But while you're there why not check out the fourth tallest masonry dome in the world? The capitol building is open to tours and volunteers are on hand to show you around and share some interesting trivia about the 1928 building, which has survived three ma... More >
The parklike grounds of the Capitol Campus is worth the walk (or drive) uphill. But while you're there why not check out the fourth tallest masonry dome in the world? The capitol building is open to tours and volunteers are on hand to show you around and share some interesting trivia about the 1928 building, which has survived three major earthquakes. You'll get to step into both legislative chambers (if they're not in session) and learn all about the world's largest Tiffany chandelier that hangs in the building's rotunda.
| I like to begin at the north end of the park near the Olympia Farmers Market and work my way south toward the capitol building (you can't miss it). |
The Nisqually River originates on Mt. Rainier and ends its journey in Puget Sound at the Nisqually National Wildlife Regure. Begin your visit at the visitor center where you'll learn all about the river's journey from glacier to sound and the ecosystems along the way. Then set out on the refuge's trails through the wetlands to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. This is an important migration stop for many species of bi... More
The Nisqually River originates on Mt. Rainier and ends its journey in Puget Sound at the Nisqually National Wildlife Regure. Begin your visit at the visitor center where you'll learn all about the river's journey from glacier to sound and the ecosystems along the way. Then set out on the refuge's trails through the wetlands to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. This is an important migration stop for many species of birds. Check the website for naturalist guided walks, and remember your binoculars. Only about 10 miles from downtown Olympia, if time allows, this is a great addition to your Olympia day trip.
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