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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Washington, USA

Accommodation Types

Lodging Options

  • Hotels

    A range of hotels, from budget-friendly national chains to mid-range and small boutique options.

  • Motels

    Economical stays, often on the outskirts of downtown or near highway exits.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Popular for longer stays, families, or groups, with a variety of options like apartments and houses.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Charming, locally owned, offering a personalized experience in historic homes.

Outdoor Accommodation

  • Camping

    Nearby state parks like Tolmie and Millersylvania offer developed campsites for nature lovers.

  • Tolmie State Park

    A short drive north, with campsites close to saltwater shoreline.

  • Millersylvania State Park

    South of Olympia, it has extensive camping facilities within a forested setting.

  • Discover Pass

    Required for vehicle access to these state parks.

Neighborhood Guide

Olympia's different neighborhoods have distinct characteristics, each providing an unique experience for visitors.

Downtown Olympia

Benefits
  • Walkable to attractions
  • Lively atmosphere
  • Diverse dining and entertainment
  • Good access to public transport
Considerations
  • Can be noisier on weekends
  • Limited free parking
  • More visible street activity
  • Exercise typical urban caution

West Olympia

Benefits
  • Easier access to I-5
  • Ample free parking
  • Budget-friendly chain hotels
  • Convenient for car travel
Considerations
  • Less walkable
  • Driving to most attractions
  • Lacks unique, local character
  • Mainly commercial and residential

East Olympia/Lacey

Benefits
  • Generally quieter
  • Suitable for families
  • Better hotel value
  • Easy access to I-5 and parks
Considerations
  • Further from downtown attractions
  • Driving or bus ride
  • More spread-out suburban feel
  • Typical suburban environment

Planning Tip

Safety in Neighborhoods

All listed neighborhoods are generally safe, with typical urban or suburban caution applicable.

Align Your Stay

Choose a neighborhood that aligns with your main travel focus; walkability and nightlife downtown, or quiet and parking in suburban areas.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies will secure good accommodations and rates for your Olympia trip.

Advance Booking

  • High Season (June-August): Book 2-4 months in advance, especially for weekends or events.
  • Shoulder Seasons (April-May, Sep-Oct): Book 1-2 months ahead for good selection and prices.
  • Low Season (Nov-March): More flexibility, but a few weeks ahead is wise for holidays.
  • Prices are highest in summer and around major holidays.

Booking Channels

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia.com for broad selection.
  • Vacation Rentals: Vrbo and Airbnb are go-to platforms.
  • Direct Booking: Check hotel websites for loyalty benefits and special promotions.
  • Local Reservation Systems: Direct calls or independent websites for smaller B&Bs.

Policies and Customs

Walk-In Rates
  • Negotiation is not common in the U.S. Hospitality industry.
  • Booking online in advance generally secures the best price.
Deposit & Cancellation
  • Policies vary significantly by property and platform.
  • Review policies before confirming your reservation.
  • Many offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in.
  • Non-refundable rates are often cheaper but riskier.

Booking Tip

Read Reviews

Read recent reviews of any property before booking to gain insights into cleanliness and service.

Verify Policies

Always verify cancellation policies and any cleaning fees or security deposits for vacation rentals.

Best Value

Accommodation prices are lower in winter (Nov-March), a good time for budget-conscious travelers.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some specific recommendations for various traveler types and budgets in Olympia.

Budget-Friendly Options

Motel 6 Olympia

Offers basic, clean rooms at an economical price point, a good option for travelers prioritizing value.

Super 8 by Wyndham Olympia

Another solid budget choice, often with complimentary breakfast and comfortable rooms.

Mid-Range Options

Red Lion Inn & Suites Olympia, Governor Hotel

A downtown property with a historic feel, blending character and convenience.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Olympia

A modern hotel with waterfront views, comfortable rooms, and recognized brand standards.

Family-Friendly Options

  • Great Wolf Lodge Grand Mound

    South of Olympia, a popular resort with an indoor water park and themed suites.

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Olympia

    East or West locations often have indoor pools, complimentary breakfast, and family-friendly rooms.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Options on Vrbo and Airbnb can offer more space for families.

  • Consistent Quality

    Chain hotels offer good value and consistent quality for families.

Long-Stay Accommodations

  • Vacation Rentals

    Airbnb and Vrbo provide home-like amenities for extended visits.

  • Extended-Stay Hotel Chains

    Properties like Residence Inn by Marriott and Homewood Suites by Hilton are in the wider Olympia/Lacey area.

  • House Sitting

    Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique long-term stays.

  • Cost-Effective

    Options with kitchens and laundry can make longer visits more economical.

Higher-End Mid-Range & Solo Traveler Recommendations

The Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake

A contemporary hotel with scenic views of Capitol Lake and the Capitol Campus, an upscale experience with modern amenities.

Solo Traveler Focus

Downtown hotels like the Red Lion Inn & Suites or The Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake offer excellent walkability to dining, nightlife, and attractions for solo explorers.

  • Vacation rentals provide privacy and kitchen convenience for solo travelers.
  • Consider Booking.com or Agoda for various options.

Cultural or Historical Significance

Red Lion Inn & Suites Olympia, Governor Hotel

Housed in a historic building, it tells a story of the city's political and social development.

Bigelow House Museum

Olympia's oldest surviving private residence, offering a glimpse into pioneer life.

State Capitol Campus

The complex itself is a historical landmark, showing architectural styles and governance.