Olympia, Washington: 10 Best Things to Do Nearby
10 Fun Things to Do Near Olympia, Washington
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| Stroll Olympia’s waterfront, chase waterfalls at Tumwater Falls, and wander peaceful boardwalks where wildlife, mountain views, and easy outdoor escapes meet. |
If you're looking for the best things to do near Olympia, Washington, you're in the right place. Olympia, the state capital in Thurston County, has a little bit of everything: waterfront views, local history, family-friendly museums, wild beaches, and easy outdoor adventures.
What I like about Olympia, WA is that it feels relaxed, but there is still plenty to explore. You can spend the morning walking by the water, the afternoon hiking through the woods, and the evening eating fresh seafood downtown. Not bad for one trip, right?
Here are 10 great places and activities near Olympia that are worth adding to your list.
1. Walk Around Downtown Olympia and Percival Landing
One of the easiest and most enjoyable things to do in Olympia, Washington is simply explore downtown. The area is very walkable, and Percival Landing is a favorite spot for both visitors and locals.
This waterfront boardwalk gives you lovely views of Budd Inlet, boats in the marina, and the Olympic Mountains on a clear day. It's the kind of place where you can slow down, grab a coffee, and just wander for a while.
- Browse local shops and bookstores
- Stop for seafood or a casual lunch
- Take photos along the boardwalk
- Catch sunset over the water
If you ask me, this is one of the best first stops in Olympia because it helps you get a feel for the city.
2. Tour the Washington State Capitol Campus
You really can't talk about Olympia without mentioning the Washington State Capitol Campus. The grounds are beautiful, open, and easy to explore, even if you're not usually the “let's go see government buildings” type.
The capitol dome is one of the tallest masonry domes in the world, and the campus lawns, memorials, and walking paths make this more interesting than it may sound. Think of it like a history stop mixed with a scenic park.
Bring comfortable shoes. The campus is large, and it's a nice place for an easy walk of a mile or two.
3. Visit the Hands On Children's Museum
If you're traveling with kids, this place is a must. The Hands On Children's Museum is one of the top family attractions near Olympia, WA, and it does a great job of keeping little ones busy.
There are interactive exhibits, creative play spaces, and outdoor areas where kids can splash, build, and experiment. Honestly, even adults may find themselves getting pulled into the fun.
This is a smart pick for a rainy Washington day too. And if you've ever traveled with children, you know finding a place where they can move around freely feels like striking gold.
4. Explore Priest Point Park
Priest Point Park, also called Squaxin Park, is one of the prettiest natural spots in Olympia. It has forested trails, shoreline access, and peaceful views that make it feel farther from town than it really is.
If you want a simple outdoor activity near Olympia, this is a great option. The trails wind through tall trees and lead to spots where you can look out over the water. It's quiet, shady, and refreshing, especially in summer.
- Great for walking and light hiking
- Picnic areas for a relaxed afternoon
- Water views and wildlife spotting
I always think parks like this are the real heart of the Pacific Northwest. They remind you why people love Washington so much.
5. Learn Something New at the Puget Sound Estuarium
For a smaller but memorable stop, check out the Puget Sound Estuarium. This marine discovery center is a fun way to learn about the sea life and shoreline habitats in the Olympia area.
You can see local marine creatures up close and get a better feel for how the waters around Puget Sound work. If you're visiting with kids, this can be a fun and educational break. If you're visiting without kids, it's still a neat stop, especially if you enjoy nature.
Sometimes the smaller attractions end up being your favorite, and this is one of those places for many visitors.
6. Spend a Day at Tolmie State Park
Located a short drive from Olympia in Thurston County, Tolmie State Park is a lovely place for beachcombing, picnicking, and enjoying Puget Sound views.
This park has a peaceful beach, wooded areas, and open space to relax. It is especially nice if you want a low-key day outdoors without planning a full hiking trip.
Pack a jacket, even in warmer months. Washington weather can change quickly, and breezes near the water can feel cooler than you expect.
7. Hike and Swim at Millersylvania State Park
If you're searching for outdoor things to do near Olympia, Washington, put Millersylvania State Park on your list. This popular park is known for its old-growth forest, trails, and Deep Lake.
It offers a nice mix of activities:
- Wooded hiking trails
- Swimming in summer
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Camping and family picnics
It's about the kind of place where you can do as much or as little as you want. Some people come for a full weekend. Others just enjoy a couple of easy hours outside.
8. Take a Scenic Trip to Wolf Haven International
Animal lovers should consider a visit to Wolf Haven International, located south of Olympia near Tenino. This sanctuary gives visitors the chance to learn about wolves and the work being done to protect them.
Seeing wolves in a wooded setting is a special experience. It feels a bit like stepping into a nature documentary, only you're actually there. Guided visits often help explain the animals' behavior, habitat, and conservation needs in a simple way.
This is one of those attractions that tends to stick with you after the trip is over.
9. Visit Tumwater Falls Park
Just minutes from Olympia, Tumwater Falls Park is one of the most beautiful places in the area. If you only have time for one quick nature stop, this might be it.
The park features waterfalls, walking paths, bridges, and viewing areas. The sound of rushing water makes the whole place feel calm and refreshing. It's a wonderful spot for photos, an easy stroll, or a short break between other activities.
And yes, it is every bit as pretty as people say.
10. Make the Drive to Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
For one of the top day trips near Olympia, head to Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. This protected area is about 20 to 30 minutes away, depending on where you're staying, and it's a fantastic pick for birdwatching, walking, and quiet scenery.
The boardwalk trails stretch out over wetlands and give you a front-row seat to the natural beauty of the region. Bring binoculars if you have them, but don't worry if you don't. There's still plenty to enjoy.
This is the kind of place where people start out saying, “We'll just stay for an hour,” and then somehow spend half the day there.
Tips for Planning Your Olympia, WA Getaway
Before you go, here are a few quick tips that can make your trip smoother:
- Dress in layers. Weather in western Washington can shift fast.
- Bring walking shoes. Many of the best activities involve easy strolling or light hiking.
- Plan for a mix of indoor and outdoor stops. That way, a rainy day won't ruin your plans.
- Leave time for local food. Olympia has great coffee, seafood, and casual spots downtown.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do Near Olympia, Washington
Whether you love hiking, museums, wildlife, or waterfront walks, there are plenty of fun things to do near Olympia, Washington. This area of Thurston County is easy to explore and works well for couples, families, solo travelers, and weekend road trippers.
If I were planning a first visit, I'd mix a little downtown time with one park, one scenic stop, and one easy day trip. That gives you a nice taste of what makes this part of Washington special.
Have you been to Olympia, WA? Which spot would you add to this list? Share this post with a friend who's planning a Washington trip, and drop your favorite Olympia-area recommendations in the comments.
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