Local Transportation: Olympia

Public Transportation

Olympia's public transportation network relies mainly on its bus system, Intercity Transit (IT). This comprehensive bus system covers Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, and other parts of Thurston County. The system offers a reliable way to get around without a car. No metro, tram, or light rail systems exist within Olympia itself; the Link Light Rail is limited to the Seattle metropolitan area.

The main transit center downtown is the Olympia Transit Center (222 State Ave NE). This central hub facilitates transfers between many routes. Other transfer points include the Capital Mall Transit Center in West Olympia and the Lacey Transit Center. Intercity Transit operates numerous routes connecting residential areas, major attractions, shopping centers, educational institutions like The Evergreen State College, and employment hubs. Detailed route maps and system diagrams appear on the official Intercity Transit website. Paper maps are also available at transit centers.

Ticketing & Accessibility

Fares: Intercity Transit is fare-free as of October 1, 2020.
ORCA Card: For regional transit in wider Puget Sound area (Seattle, Tacoma, Everett), not needed for IT.
Hours: Weekdays ~5 AM-midnight; reduced weekend/holiday service.
Accessibility: All buses are wheelchair accessible with ramps or lifts.

Fare-Free Buses

Intercity Transit buses are currently free for all passengers, making travel budget-friendly.

Use Apps/Website

The Intercity Transit website/app or Google Maps offer trip planning and real-time tracking.

Ask the Driver

Bus drivers offer directions or advice if you are unsure about a route or connection.

Tips for Navigating Efficiently

Planning Your Ride

Use the official Intercity Transit website or app.
Google Maps offers excellent integration of IT routes.
Arrive at your bus stop a few minutes early.

Boarding the Bus

Wave clearly to signal the driver.
Ask the driver if you are unsure about a route.
Take advantage of fare-free travel.

Typical Fare Estimates USD, Pre-Fare-Free

Adult Single Ride

$2.50

Youth 6-18

$1.25

Senior/Disabled

$1.00

Day Pass

$5.00

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

For direct and flexible transportation, taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Olympia.

Licensed Taxis

Licensed taxis operate, found at hotels or by calling local dispatch.
Clear signage, meters, and distinctive roof lights identify them.
Hailing on the street is uncommon; call for pickup.
Cash and major credit cards generally accepted; confirm payment options.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular in Olympia.
Apps offer competitive pricing and convenience.
Confirm driver details (name, plate, car model) before entering.
Share trip details with trusted contacts via the app's safety features.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

Taxis and ride-sharing services are pre-booked or requested upon arrival.
Olympia-Lacey Amtrak station for pickups.
SEA: Designated pick-up zones for rideshare and taxis.

Use fare estimators in apps to understand costs.
Follow airport signage to correct pick-up areas.
Booking in advance works for smooth arrivals.

Typical Fares Approximate

Taxi Meter Start

~$3-$5 (Flag drop fee)

Per Mile Charge

~$2-$3

Rideshare Minimum

~$7-$10 (Before per mile)

Rental Options

For maximum independence and regional exploration, consider renting a car or bicycle.

Car Rental Information

Valid driver's license (International Driving Permit if not in English).
Major credit card for deposit and payment.
Minimum age 21 (under 25 may mean a surcharge).
Major companies: Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, Alamo.

Driving & Parking

Drive on the right; seatbelts mandatory; cell phone use restricted.
I-5: Main highway, traffic during rush hour.
Downtown: Metered street parking (free evenings/weekends), public garages.
Capitol Campus: Public parking lots (some fee, some limited free).

Other Rental Options

Motorcycle & Scooter

Less common directly in Olympia. Specialized rentals found in larger cities like Seattle or Tacoma.

Urban scooter rentals are rare.

Bicycle Rentals

Local bike shops, e.g., Deschutes River Cyclery and Old Town Bicycle, offer rentals. Helmets and locks usually included.

No major dockless bike-sharing program.

Specialty Vehicles

Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not applicable in Olympia.

Main choices are cars and bicycles.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Downtown Olympia: Highly walkable, well-maintained sidewalks, marked crosswalks.
Percival Landing: Scenic boardwalk along Budd Inlet.
Capitol Campus: Expansive grounds, paved paths, gardens, historical monuments.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Growing network of bike lanes and multi-use trails.
Chehalis Western Trail (22-mile paved route) and Butler Cove Trail.
Helmets recommended for all cyclists, mandatory under 18 in Washington State.

Safety Considerations for Walking & Cycling

No specific "no-go" areas that are unsafe during the day.
Exercise caution on busier roads with heavier vehicle traffic.
Use common sense when walking or cycling at night.
Choose well-lit, populated routes after dark.

Carry water, especially during warmer months, for extended periods.
Self-guided historical walking tours available from the Olympia Visitor Center.
Occasional guided history or ghost tours are available.
Olympia prioritizes accessibility for mobility needs.

Accessibility Services

Olympia prioritizes accessibility for travelers with mobility needs. No unique specialized transportation options like cable cars or funiculars exist here.

Public Transport Accessibility

Intercity Transit buses are fully accessible with ramps or lifts.
Designated priority seating on all buses.
Drivers receive training to assist passengers with mobility aids.
Service animals are permitted onboard.

Venue & Sidewalk Accessibility

Most public buildings and attractions are wheelchair-accessible.
Accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms.
Downtown sidewalks are well-maintained with curb cuts at intersections.
Olympia Visitor Center offers guidance and resources.

Taxi & Rideshare Accessibility

Requesting Accessible Vehicles

When booking a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft), you often request an accessible vehicle.

Option available in apps.
Specify needs when calling.
Advisable to book in advance.

Advance Booking

Higher chance of availability.
Reduced wait times.
Peace of mind.

Confirm Details

Confirm with the driver upon arrival that the vehicle meets your accessibility needs.

Double-check vehicle type.
Ensure ramp/lift function.
Confirm driver awareness.

Important Accessibility Notes

General Recommendations

Check specific venue websites for detailed accessibility.
Plan your routes considering terrain and distances.
Confirm special equipment needed for activities.

Potential Challenges

Older buildings may have limited accessibility.
Some natural areas or trails may present barriers.
Traffic congestion can affect travel times for accessible transport.

Final Tip on Local Travel

Intercity Transit's fare-free policy makes it an attractive option for moving around Olympia. Consider a rental car for regional day trips or independent exploration.

For quick trips within the city, rideshare apps offer convenience.

Local Transportation