Practical Tips & Hacks: Olympia

Money-Saving Strategies

Travelers save money in Olympia by utilizing free attractions and smart spending choices.

Discount Cards and Passes

The Washington State Discover Pass applies if you plan to visit multiple state parks, including Tolmie State Park or Millersylvania State Park, with your vehicle. The annual pass ($30) costs less than multiple daily passes ($10 each).
No specific city-wide discount passes exist for Olympia attractions.
Focus on free activities to save money effectively.
Always check current pass requirements before your visit.

Free Activities and Attractions

Guided tours of the Washington State Capitol offer a free experience.
Walks along Percival Landing and around Capitol Lake are free.
Exploring Priest Point Park and visiting Tumwater Falls Park involve no cost.
The fare-free Intercity Transit buses mean significant savings on transportation.

Happy Hours and Dining Deals

Many restaurants and bars in Olympia offer discounted food and drinks during happy hour.
Happy hour times typically occur in the late afternoon.
This presents an excellent opportunity to sample local cuisine and beverages at reduced prices.
Look for special menus or daily deals.

Transportation Savings

Utilize the fare-free Intercity Transit system for city travel.
Walk or bike when convenient, especially in walkable downtown areas.
For longer distances or day trips, compare rental car costs versus rideshares or taxis.
Carpooling with others means savings for longer trips.

Accommodation Alternatives

Exploring diverse lodging options opens paths to saving money on your trip.

Vacation Rentals with Kitchens

Consider booking vacation rentals that include a kitchen.
This makes way for purchasing groceries from local supermarkets or the Olympia Farmers Market.
Cooking some of your own meals significantly scales down dining costs.
Plan your meals in advance for maximum efficiency.

Hotels Outside Downtown

Look for hotels or motels slightly outside the immediate downtown area.
Such options may present lower rates.
These accommodations still provide good access via public transit or a short drive.
Compare prices and locations carefully for the best fit.

Happy Hours & Dining

Many local eateries offer happy hour specials.
This means discounted food and beverages.
Typically scheduled in the late afternoon.
A great way to experience local cuisine affordably.

Meal Preparation Options

Purchase groceries from local markets.
The Olympia Farmers Market offers fresh produce.
Choose accommodations with kitchen access for this strategy.

Time-Saving Tips

Skip-the-Line Options

Long lines typically do not arise at attractions in Olympia, even during peak season.
For popular events or specific tours, check in advance if online ticket purchase or advance booking exists.
This sometimes saves a few minutes.
Always confirm specific event booking requirements.

Best and Worst Times for Popular Attractions

Visit the Capitol Campus in the morning or late afternoon.
This avoids larger school groups that often tour during midday on weekdays.
The Olympia Farmers Market reaches its busiest point on Saturday mornings; go early or later in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
Check attraction hours before visiting.

Express Transportation Alternatives

Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) offer a quicker option than buses if time is short and direct routes are preferred.
A rental car presents the most flexibility for covering large distances quickly.
This especially serves day trips.

Efficient Routing Suggestions

Group attractions by geographical area for streamlined visits.
Explore downtown and the Capitol Campus together.
Dedicate a separate block of time for West Olympia/Lacey.
Use Google Maps for real-time traffic updates when driving for optimized routes.

Local Insights

Local insights enrich your experience and help avoid common traveler missteps.

Common Tourist Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Underestimating the Rain: Pacific Northwest weather changes quickly. Always carry a rain jacket or a compact umbrella.
Not Exploring Beyond Downtown: Olympia has beautiful parks, natural areas, and charming neighborhoods beyond the city center.
Missing the Farmers Market: It forms a part of Olympia's local culture and food scene. Experience it, especially on a Saturday.
Even on sunny days, be ready for quick weather shifts.

Local Customs That Visitors Should Know

Recycling: Locals generally practice good recycling and sustainability. Participate by using designated bins.
Traffic: Patience with I-5 traffic helps, especially around rush hour. It happens in the Puget Sound region.
Casual Dress: Olympia comes across as a relaxed city. Casual attire works in most places.
Locals value politeness in all interactions.

Unofficial Rules and Social Norms

Politeness: Politeness and common courtesies find appreciation in all interactions. A simple "please" and "thank you" contributes significantly.
Tipping: Remember to tip for service in restaurants, taxis, and other service industries, as this forms standard practice in the U.S.
Outdoor Etiquette: When hiking or enjoying parks, follow "Leave No Trace" principles to preserve the natural environment.
A polite and respectful demeanor is well-received.

Phrases That Impress Locals

No specific phrases are unique to Olympia beyond general politeness.
Showing genuine interest in the city and its culture works well.
Asking about local breweries, favorite hiking spots, or hidden gems starts friendly conversations.
Expressing enjoyment of the city's atmosphere often draws a positive response.

Local Insight Tip:

Engage with local business owners and staff. They often share insights and recommendations not found elsewhere.

Solo, Family & Group-Specific Advice

Olympia welcomes all travelers, with considerations for solo adventurers, families, and groups.

Solo Traveler Focus

Olympia is generally safe. Downtown areas remain active into the evening. Exercise typical urban caution, especially after dark. Downtown cafes, casual bars, and breweries make comfortable settings for social interaction. Joining a local walking tour or visiting the Farmers Market presents opportunities to meet others. Consider staying in a downtown hotel for easy access to amenities and social hubs.

Family-Friendly Highlights

The Hands On Children's Museum makes a must-do for families with young children. Plan ample time for exploration. Priest Point Park and Tumwater Falls Park offer playgrounds, easy walks, and opportunities for kids to run and explore nature. Great Wolf Lodge, just south of Olympia, presents a popular family destination with an indoor water park and family-friendly amenities. Many restaurants cater to families; choose casual eateries or grab-and-go options from the Farmers Market for flexible dining.

Group Logistics

For groups, book accommodations, popular restaurants, and tours well in advance for everyone to be accommodated together. Consider renting a larger vehicle (van or SUV) if your group plans extensive driving. Alternatively, coordinate rideshares or utilize the fare-free Intercity Transit system for city travel. Establish clear communication within the group regarding meeting times, locations, and daily plans.

Accessibility Considerations for Different Travelers

Mobility Needs

See Section 11.4 for detailed information on accessible infrastructure, attractions, and transportation in Olympia.
Always contact specific venues or accommodations in advance to confirm their accessibility features.
Inquire about any specific needs you may have.

Sensory Needs & Dietary Restrictions

For visual or hearing impairments, inquire about services like large print materials or audio guides.
Check for assistive listening devices if relevant.
Confirm restaurants' capacity to accommodate specific dietary needs when making reservations or upon arrival.

Travel Attitude Tip:

Travel with a positive attitude and flexibility. Unexpected situations may arise, but a calm approach means everyone enjoys the trip.

Practical Tips & Hacks