Olympia Washington, USA Travel Guide
Olympia's location provides excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, especially hiking and water sports.
From easy paths at Capitol Campus to medium-difficulty paths at Millersylvania State Park, and difficult day trips to Olympic or Mount Rainier National Park.
Paved routes like the Chehalis Western Trail (22 miles) for road biking, and multi-use trails at Capitol State Forest for mountain biking.
Limited directly in Olympia; activities like river rafting or rock climbing are day trips to the Cascade Mountains.
Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on outdoor adventures. Carry water, snacks, plus fitting gear.
Olympia offers various ways to immerse yourself in its local culture, from arts and performances to community events.
Engage with local producers and artisans.
Bi-annual event (spring and fall) demonstrating local artists and performers.
Annual summer festival with carnival rides, music, and fireworks.
Engage with the residents through markets and cultural events.
A unique community art parade celebrating biodiversity (spring).
Check the Experience Olympia & Beyond website for current festival schedules.
Olympia provides chances for relaxation and wellness, making it possible to rejuvenate during your trip.
Available in Olympia (e.g., at The Evergreen State College or community centers with day pass options).
No private beach clubs, but nearby state parks like Tolmie State Park offer public beach access.
Start your day with a walk or jog along Percival Landing or around Capitol Lake for serene exercise.
From unique halotherapy sessions to therapeutic massages, options exist for deep relaxation.
The city's green spaces and waterfront provide calming environments for reflection and light exercise.
Consider a yoga class or a quiet walk to find balance during your travels.
Olympia's nightlife offers a mix of live music, theater, and a relaxed bar scene, reflecting its community-focused character.
Limited traditional nightclubs; some bars may have DJs or dance nights on weekends.
Downtown Olympia (Capitol Way, 4th Avenue) has a concentration of bars, breweries, and pubs for easy pub crawls.
Most establishments close by 10 PM-midnight weekdays; some bars open until 2 AM on weekends.
Experience local brews in casual brewery settings or classic cocktails at downtown bars.
Capitol Theater hosts independent films and special arts events.
The Brotherhood Lounge provides a quirky dive bar experience unique to Olympia.
Prioritize local businesses, look for fair trade products, and be aware of your home country's customs regulations for purchases. Bring reusable bags to the Farmers Market.
