Olympia(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Olympia, top boutique stays include The Hotel in Olympia, a stylish urban retreat blending local art with minimalist design, located steps from the Washington State Capitol. Its rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding forests. For nature lovers, Hood Canal Lodge provides secluded cabins nestled in coastal rainforest, perfect for eco-conscious travelers seeking tranquility. Another standout is Olympia Waterside Inn, featuring water-facing rooms and a private dock ideal for sunrise photography and kayaking. These properties emphasize sustainability, locally sourced materials, and Pacific Northwest aesthetics, making them ideal for guests who value character-driven hospitality and authentic regional charm.

First-time visitors should stay in the Downtown Olympia district, centrally located near major attractions like the Washington State Capitol, Olympia Arts Center, and Olympic National Park Visitor Center. This area offers walkability, access to local cafes, farmers markets, and cultural events such as the Olympia Beer Festival. It’s also close to public transit and bike-sharing stations, making it easy to explore without a car. The mix of historic architecture, green spaces, and vibrant community life creates an inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of Puget Sound’s laid-back, progressive spirit.

Immerse yourself in Olympia’s rich cultural tapestry by visiting the Washington State Capitol’s historical exhibits, which highlight Native American heritage and state governance. Attend the annual Olympia Beer Festival, showcasing local craft breweries and Pacific Northwest brewing traditions. Explore the Tumwater Historic District, where preserved 19th-century buildings host artisan markets and walking tours. Don’t miss the Nisqually Tribal Cultural Events, offering authentic storytelling, traditional crafts, and indigenous cuisine like smoked salmon and acorn flour bread. These experiences offer deep insight into the region’s diverse identity, rooted in both natural stewardship and community resilience.

Yes, Olympia is highly family-friendly. The Olympic National Park Visitor Center features interactive exhibits and ranger-led kids’ programs on forest ecology and wildlife. Buckley Park boasts a large playground, picnic shelters, and gentle trails perfect for young explorers. The State Capitol Tour includes a child-friendly scavenger hunt booklet, turning history into adventure. Families can also visit the Olympia Children’s Museum, where hands-on science experiments and creative workshops spark curiosity. Many hotels, including The Hotel in Olympia, offer family suites and complimentary cribs—making it a welcoming destination for parents and children alike.

For authentic local flavors, try The Waterfront Restaurant, serving fresh-caught king crab and salmon sourced daily from Puget Sound. Visit the Puyallup Valley Farmers Market every Saturday to sample wild blueberry jam, sourdough bread, and organic produce. At Olympia Brewing Company, pair their signature IPAs with house-made pretzels and charcuterie boards. For a deeper cultural taste, join a Nisqually Tribe Food Experience, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes like smoked salmon and acorn mush using ancestral methods. These culinary journeys connect you directly to the land, sea, and people of the Pacific Northwest.

Yes, several hotels in Olympia prioritize sustainability. The Hotel in Olympia uses solar panels, zero-plastic amenities, and hosts a composting program. Hood Canal Lodge features passive-solar design, energy-efficient cabins, and all meals sourced from local organic farms. Olympia Waterside Inn participates in the Green Lodging Program, encouraging guests to reuse towels and offering free bike rentals. All three properties reduce waste through recycling systems, rainwater harvesting, and low-impact landscaping. These efforts reflect Washington State’s commitment to climate action and environmental justice, making eco-conscious travel seamless and meaningful.

Winter in Olympia brings serene beauty and cozy charm. While snow is rare, Olympic National Park’s winter trails—like Squak Mountain Trail—offer peaceful snowshoeing and stunning views of misty peaks. The Olympia Winter Festival in January features illuminated art displays, local music performances, and warm indoor gatherings. Lucky’s Bar & Grill serves seasonal comfort food, including hearty beef stew and spiced hot cider. Indoor options include theater shows at the Olympia Arts Center and hands-on craft workshops. Despite rainy weather, the city’s mild temperatures and lush greenery create a tranquil, introspective atmosphere ideal for quiet reflection and creative inspiration.

Absolutely. Olympia is one of the safest and most welcoming cities for solo travelers. The downtown area is walkable, well-lit, and full of friendly locals. Olympia Public Library hosts regular author talks and writing groups—perfect for meeting fellow readers. The Good Life Cafe encourages conversation with its open seating and weekly poetry nights. The Tumwater Art Walk and Farmers Market provide relaxed social settings where you can strike up conversations with vendors and artists. Many hotels, like The Hotel in Olympia, offer single rooms and communal kitchens, fostering informal connections. With its strong sense of community and progressive values, Olympia makes solo travel feel personal, safe, and enriching.

Public transit in Olympia is efficient for local travel. City of Olympia Transit operates multiple bus routes connecting Downtown, Capitol Campus, and Evergreen State College. The Olympia Bike Share system provides affordable access to over 200 bikes across key destinations like Capital Lake and Olympic Sculpture Park. Amtrak trains stop at Olympia Station, linking the city to Seattle and Portland for longer trips. Most attractions are within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from downtown, reducing reliance on cars. With clean, reliable service and a strong focus on sustainability, public transport makes exploring Olympia both convenient and environmentally responsible.

Capture iconic moments at the Washington State Capitol with its striking red dome and neoclassical façade. Snap reflections at Capital Lake, especially during golden hour when the water mirrors the sky and trees. Frame your shot at Olympic Sculpture Park, where modern metal installations contrast with coastal forest backdrops. Tumwater Falls offers a dramatic waterfall framed by ancient cedar trees—ideal for portrait and nature photography. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace of The Hotel in Olympia, which delivers sweeping views of the city skyline and distant mountains. These scenic locations embody the poetic balance between nature, art, and urban life in the Pacific Northwest.