If you’re a local or visitor, but not sure what there is to do in Olympia, this list will help! My favorite parts of Washington are generally outdoors, but with the weather being unpredictable, I also put a few indoor options on the list!
Tolmie State Park
Washington has so many beautiful parks, and Tolmie State Park is one of my favorite! There are several trails that are family friendly, swimming, and beautiful views of Puget Sound. While it’s not technically free, a $35 discover pass will get you into a ton of parks all around Washington for the year.
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge
The Bill Frank Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge has 4 miles of trails, a 1 mile raised boardwalk over the estuary, a visitors center and nature shop. It is known as an amazing area to view wildlife with more than 275 species of birds, seals, otters, and many other animals. It is open every day, sunrise to sunset.
Olympia Farmer’s Market
The Olympia Farmer’s Market is open more than 150 days per year with their scheduled days ranging from one day per week in January to four days per week in high season. The market sells fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, seafood, and more. They also have eight restaurants and live music!
Puget Sound Estuarium
The Puget Sound Estuarium was opened in 2007 by the South Sound Estuary Association. Their aim is to educate the public on how to protect our ecosystem in the Puget Sound. Their most popular program is called Pier Peer where guests can view marine life from the Estuary up close! It’s an event held twice per month in summer and fall, and tickets are $18 for adults and $3 for 12 and under.
WET Science Center
This FREE science center is for learning all about water! This would be a great place to take your kids, but really it’s for all ages to learn about the water cycle, wastewater treatment, reclaimed water, and clean water careers. They are open Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm.
Hands On Children’s Museum
The Hands On Children’s Museum was founded in 1987, and now has over 300,000 visitors annually! Part of their mission is to make learning available for everyone, regardless of ethnicity, gender, or income. They have so many different exhibits to see, and you can check them out on their website before you go!
Cirque Climbing
Cirque Climbing is a climbing gym with bouldering and roped climbing located in Lacey. They have beginner classes, youth programs, and even private coaching options, so you’ll find something for everyone!
Legends Arcade
Legends Arcade opened in 2023 by a husband and wife duo who were looking to open up a foosball club, and instead decided to open an arcade instead! Their arcade has over 50 classic token operated games including retro arcade machines, pinball, foosball, skeeball, and a bar for those 21 and older.
Things To Do in Olympia
Olympia has so many things to choose from, you won’t have a hard time finding something to do this weekend. If it’s a clear day, you definitely don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to have a day at one of many local state parks. If it’s a rainy day, you can’t go wrong with any of the indoor attractions either!
Looking for a photographer while you’re here? Check out my family page, then contact me! I travel all over the state, and would love to get some pictures of your family!
