Attractions and Places To See around Olympia - Top 20

Olympia offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore the Chehalis Western Trail, a 22-mile paved path perfect for cycling or walking, or the Karen Fraser Woodland Trail Wetlands, a 2.5-mile crushed rock trail. For hiking, consider the Watershed Park, known for its historical waterworks, or the Ellis Cove Nature Trail with views of Budd Inlet. The nearby hiking guide and cycling guide provide more options.

Yes, Olympia has several family-friendly options. The Chehalis Western Trail and Karen Fraser Woodland Trail Wetlands are both suitable for families. The Hands On Children's Museum offers interactive exhibits, and Squaxin Park (formerly Priest Point Park) provides playgrounds and picnic areas. Percival Landing Park also features a boardwalk and public art that families can enjoy.

Olympia is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Washington State Capitol Campus, which offers free guided tours of the Capitol Building. The Old Capitol Building, also known as 'the Castle,' and the Governor's Mansion are other notable architectural sites. For a glimpse into pioneer life, explore the Bigelow House Museum, one of the oldest standing homes in the Pacific Northwest.

For nature and wildlife, the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit, home to over 300 bird species and other wildlife. The Norm Dicks Visitor Center serves as a gateway to the refuge and has an accessible viewing platform. Other natural areas include Squaxin Park with its saltwater shoreline and trails, and the unique Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve.

Yes, several attractions in Olympia are accessible. The Norm Dicks Visitor Center at the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge features an accessible viewing platform. The Percival Landing Park boardwalk is also wheelchair-friendly, offering scenic views of Budd Inlet. The Chehalis Western Trail, a paved path, is generally accessible for various mobility levels.

The summer months are ideal for outdoor activities in Olympia, offering pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and exploring parks. However, many trails, like those in Capitol State Forest, are accessible year-round. The Olympia Farmers Market is also a vibrant attraction from spring through fall.

Olympia offers diverse cultural experiences. The Squaxin Island Museum Library & Research Center provides insights into Indigenous heritage. You can also visit the Monarch Sculpture Park for contemporary art outdoors, or the Childhood's End Art Gallery for Pacific Northwest art. Downtown Olympia itself has an 'indie vibe' with unique shops, art galleries, and local coffee roasters.

For scenic views, the Washington State Capitol Campus offers vistas of Capitol Lake. The Ellis Cove Nature Trail provides nice viewpoints of Budd Inlet. Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls offers scenic views of the Deschutes River and Tumwater Falls. Additionally, the Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk Trail at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge provides expansive views where the Nisqually River meets Puget Sound.

Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting the Yashiro Japanese Gardens for a tranquil experience, symbolizing Olympia's ties with Japan. The Olympia Artesian Well, dating back to 1895, is a historic spot for a cool drink. For art enthusiasts, the Monarch Sculpture Park offers a unique outdoor gallery experience.

Many of Olympia's outdoor spaces are dog-friendly. Capitol Lake offers a scenic loop popular for walks. Capitol State Forest provides a variety of hiking and biking trails where dogs are generally welcome, though leash rules apply. Always check specific park regulations before visiting with your dog.

Olympia is a great area for cycling. The Chehalis Western Trail is a popular 22-mile paved route. Other options include the Delphi Road loop and the Johnson Point & Woodard Bay loop for longer rides. You can find more detailed routes and their difficulties in the cycling guide and road cycling guide.