Olympia, WA

Travel Guide

A large government building with a dome, surrounded by trees and a body of water.
A large government building with a prominent dome and columns, surrounded by well-maintained lawns and trees.
A neoclassical building with a large dome and columns, labeled "LEGISLATIVE BUILDING".
A neoclassical building with a dome, surrounded by well-manicured trees and a monument in the foreground.
A park with a large building in the background, surrounded by trees and people.

Visit parks, museums, and local markets while enjoying the unique neighborhoods and natural beauty surrounding the area.

Olympia is an ideal destination for outdoor and scenery travelers. You can explore Priest Point Park, a well-known urban park, or visit the historic Washington State Capitol. Families may enjoy the Hands On Children's Museum, which offers interactive exhibits for children. For activities, the Olympia Farmers Market provides a venue for local produce and crafts, while the State Theater hosts various performances. If you're looking for recreation, Yauger Park is a popular choice, and nearby, you can discover the natural beauty of Harstine Island, Herron Island, and Eld Inlet, each known for its outdoor scenery.

You can also explore Olympia's diverse neighborhoods. The South Westside is recognized for its outdoor experiences, featuring West Central Park and Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls. Another area, Northwest Olympia, is known for recreational options like Shankz Black Light Mini Golf. Likewise, East Bay Drive is home to the Bigelow House Museum, a notable landmark. Each of these neighborhoods contributes to the local character and offers unique spots to enjoy during your visit.

The best time to visit Olympia is from June to August when the weather is mild and mostly dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities. While this period is often busy with tourists, the pleasant conditions can enhance your experience. Conversely, November to January tends to be wetter, which may affect outdoor plans. If you prefer fewer crowds, planning your visit outside of the peak summer months can provide a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the sights and activities.

Where to stay in Olympia

Find the best Olympia areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Olympia
Learn more about Olympia
A lake with a reflection of a large building and trees.

Downtown Olympia

While visiting Downtown Olympia, you might make a stop by sights like Hands On Children's Museum and Olympia Farmers Market.

A lake surrounded by forested hills and a residential area.

Eastside

While there might not be top attractions in Eastside, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Hands On Children's Museum and Olympia Farmers Market.

A forest path surrounded by dense ferns and moss-covered trees.

South Westside

When in South Westside, you can plan a visit to Washington State Capitol and Olympia Farmers Market, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A lake surrounded by autumn-colored trees and houses on a hillside.

Northwest Olympia

While there might not be top attractions in Northwest Olympia, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Olympia Farmers Market and Hands On Children's Museum.

A neoclassical building with columns, flags, and a clear sky.

South Capitol

While visiting South Capitol, you might make a stop by sights like State Capitol Museum and Capitol Lake.

Motel 6 Tumwater, WA - Olympia

Motel 6 Tumwater, WA - Olympia

2 out of 5
400 Lee St Sw Olympia WA
$52 nightly
The price is $60 total per night from Dec 6 to Dec 7
$60 total
Dec 6 - Dec 7
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this motel in Olympia. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
Motel 6 Tumwater, WA - Olympia
Ramada by Wyndham Olympia

Ramada by Wyndham Olympia

2.5 out of 5
4520 Martin Way E. Olympia WA
$89 nightly
The price is $102 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$102 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Olympia. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
Ramada by Wyndham Olympia
Hilton Garden Inn Olympia

Hilton Garden Inn Olympia

3 out of 5
2101 Henderson Park Lane SE Olympia WA
$109 nightly
The price is $125 total per night from Nov 29 to Nov 30
$125 total
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Olympia. Enjoy free parking, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
Hilton Garden Inn Olympia
See all 797 properties in Olympia
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Delightful 1- bedroom floating home w free parking

Delightful 1- bedroom floating home w free parking

Olympia WA
Stay at this vacation home in Olympia. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Priest Point Park and Olympia Farmers Market ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (35 reviews)
"Such a great property the views were great it was so easy to relax"

Reviewed on Oct 24, 2026

Delightful 1- bedroom floating home w free parking
Cheerful ocean front 3 bedroom cabin

Cheerful ocean front 3 bedroom cabin

Olympia WA
Stay at this cabin in Olympia. Enjoy laundry facilities, an in-room coffeemaker, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Tolmie State Park and Nisqually ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (27 reviews)
"This is the second time that we have stayed at this property. Both times we spent most of our time outdoors on the deck hanging out. The property is clean and well appointed. You can hear a pin drop for how quiet the neighborhood is. Well situated to shopping and sights. Would stay here a thousand ..."

Reviewed on Sep 14, 2026

Cheerful ocean front 3 bedroom cabin
AC IN UNIT Modern 2 bedroom remodel walking distance to downtown

AC IN UNIT Modern 2 bedroom remodel walking distance to downtown

Olympia WA
Stay at this apartment in Olympia. Enjoy laundry facilities. Popular attractions West Central Park and 5th Avenue Bridge are located nearby.
9.8/10 Exceptional! (32 reviews)
"This is the third time we have stayed at this property - it surely won't be the last."

Reviewed on Sep 21, 2026

AC IN UNIT Modern 2 bedroom remodel walking distance to downtown
See all properties in Olympia
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Olympia attractions

A large government building with a prominent dome and columns, surrounded by well-maintained lawns and trees.

Washington State Capitol

8.6/10 (639 reviews)
Get a fascinating glimpse of Washington’s government in Olympia, the lovely state capital. Tour various monumental buildings, memorials and parks.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Olympia worth visiting?
Olympia is worth visiting for its notable attractions, including the Washington State Capitol and Evergreen State College. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining experiences, with options for Asian and Latin American cuisine. The city is easily accessible, offering practical transit access via train.
When is the best time to visit Olympia?
The best time to visit Olympia is from May through September, when the climate is generally pleasant for exploring. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering cooler weather.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Olympia?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Olympia depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Olympia offers attractions like the Olympia Farmers Market, Hands On Children's Museum, and Percival Landing.

What is Olympia known for?
Olympia is known for being home to the Washington State Capitol and Evergreen State College. Travelers can also explore Millersylvania State Park. The city is named after the nearby Olympic Mountains and offers a notable Asian food culture, especially in areas like Downtown Olympia.
What is a good itinerary length for Olympia?
A good itinerary length for Olympia is two to three days to explore the Washington State Capitol, Evergreen State College, and Millersylvania State Park, or take an Olympia Scavenger Hunt Adventure. For a more in-depth visit, allow five to six days to include the '3 Days in Olympic National Park from Seattle: Silent Forest - Hoh Rainforest' activity. See Olympia Activities.
How do you get around Olympia?
Olympia offers train service for travelers, with the Olympia-Lacey Station providing connections. For exploring further afield, rental cars are available in the South Westside neighborhood. Rideshare services also provide a convenient way to get around Olympia and the surrounding areas, offering flexibility for your travels.
What are the top things to do in and around Olympia?
Olympia offers a blend of natural beauty, civic exploration, and unique local adventures:

  • Tour the WA Legislative Building to learn about local politics.
  • Explore Olympic National Park, including the Hoh Rainforest, for stunning natural scenery.
  • Wander through Millersylvania State Park, perfect for outdoor recreation.
  • See the cascades at Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls.
  • Experience an Olympia Scavenger Hunt Adventure for a fun way to discover the city.

How do I plan a trip to Olympia?
Plan your Olympia trip by booking flights, hotels, rental cars, and activities like the Olympia Scavenger Hunt early. Consider staying in Downtown Olympia, near the Olympia Farmers Market. For outdoor plans, like Millersylvania State Park, have indoor backups ready for weather flexibility. Train travel is also an option.
What cuisines can you find in Olympia?
In Olympia you can find Thai cuisine, with popular dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum. Travelers can also enjoy Mexican food, including tacos, and Italian options. The area also offers a variety of coffee shops and pubs.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Olympia?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Olympia by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Olympia with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Olympia trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Olympia?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Olympia can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Olympia trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Olympia trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Olympia trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Olympia trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Olympia?
If it's your first trip to Olympia, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Olympia hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Olympia hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Olympia

A large brick building surrounded by dense forest and a snow-capped mountain in the background.

Lacey

A waterfall, a river, and industrial buildings surrounded by greenery.

Tumwater

A forested valley with a bridge over a river.

Shelton

A serene lake surrounded by tall trees with a sunset in the background.

Yelm

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