Things To Do
Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls
A favorite with tourists! "Providing the visitor with 15 acres filled with natural, picturesque beauty and year-round atmosphere of enjoyment for those of all ages. A wide variety of native trees and shrubs line both sides of the river as it pitches and eddies through a gorge of bouldered rapids and deep pools; its course culminating in a mist-filled plunge over Tumwater Falls. One-half mile of walking trails are highlighted by cascading waterfalls, still, reflective pools and massive rocks. Spanning the river at both ends of the gorge and connecting the network of trails are footbridges designed for compatibility with the surroundings and historic accuracy. At the upper reaches and entrance to the Park, visitors will find, wide expanses of beautifully maintained lawns, picnic facilities, a sand-filled area for children featuring uniquely designed play items, immaculate restrooms and ample parking."
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
**This is where Ben proposed and one of my most favorite places in the world!! A must for nature lovers and we highly recommend!** "Nisqually Refuge is famous for the more than 275 migratory bird species that use the refuge for migration, wintering, or breeding. The refuge provides rearing and migration habitat for steelhead trout and several salmon species and habitat for a variety of threatened and endangered species. The Black River Unit, southwest of Olympia, provides high-quality habitat for Coho and Chinook salmon, steelhead trout, migratory birds, and a diversity of other species. The Black River is one of the largest undisturbed freshwater wetland systems remaining in western Washington. Situated between Olympia and Seattle and within 100 miles of more than 4 million people, Nisqually Refuge is visited each year by more than 100,000 people who come to enjoy and learn about these sensitive natural resources."
Briggs Taphouse
**A personal favorite of ours!!!** "A family pizza & craft beer hub. Briggs Taphouse has fresh menu items, hand-tossed pizza dough, and gluten-free and vegan options along with rotating local taps. Also, has a pet-friendly patio!"
The Olympia Farmers Market
"The Olympia Farmers Market is one of the only vendor-owned and operated farmers markets in the State of Washington. Visit them for a variety of vendors including crafts, farms with fresh organic produce and fruits, meats, fresh seafood, fresh cut flowers and live entertainment."
Hands On Children's Museum
For any out-of-town guests looking for kid friendly activities! "Its eight themed galleries create a sense of wonder and delight children who learn about science, technology, engineering, art and math through 150+ hands-on exhibits. The museum also has a half-acre Outdoor Discovery Center, one of the nation’s pilot sites for the Going Wild Program, where children can reconnect with nature."
Percival Landing Park
"Percival Landing is 3.38 acres and is one of Olympia's three waterfront parks and is located on the east side of Budd Bay on the southern most tip of Puget Sound. This popular park and tourist destination is in the heart of downtown and is a hub for gatherings, social interaction and public celebrations. The Landing includes a 0.9-mile boardwalk extending along the eastern shoreline of West Bay from the Fourth Avenue Bridge to Thurston Avenue."
Craft District
"Craft District was born from Tumwater’s deep brewing history through the community’s vision and passion for a handcrafted experience. Their market building will feature multiple vendors surrounding a livable common space that will include a winery, cidery, brewery, restaurants, bakery, and boutique, along with popup vendors and personal services."
Pawsific NorthWest Cat Cafe
"Pawsific Northwest Cat Café is Thurston County’s first and only Cat Café. This is an inclusive and comfortable space, where you can enjoy great coffee, yummy snacks from local bakeries, browse artwork and offerings by local crafters and artists and spend time snuggling adoptable cats and kittens from our local rescues. They proudly offer Olympia Coffee Roasters coffee, some of the area’s best and most ethically sourced coffee."
Pike Place Market
"The Pike Place Market has been a defining Seattle icon for more than a century. Considered by many 'the soul of Seattle,' the Market spans nine historic acres in the center of downtown where everyday locals and tourists alike shop, visit, eat and discover. Founded in 1907, the Market is one of the oldest and largest continuously operating public markets in the United States and is brought to life by the hundreds of farmers, crafters, small businesses, and residents that call it 'home'".
Mount Rainier National Park
*All visitors must have an entrance pass* Entrances are generally staffed during daylight hours, though may be staffed earlier or later. If entering the park outside of daylight hours, purchase a pass at the next available staffed entrance (card/electronic payment only). Entrance passes can also be purchased in local communities (cash/card) or at the above website "Mount Rainier National Park is located in west-central Washington state. Ascending to 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands as an icon in the Washington landscape. An active volcano, Mount Rainier is the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S.A., spawning five major rivers. Subalpine wildflower meadows ring the icy volcano while ancient forest cloaks Mount Rainier’s lower slopes. Wildlife abounds in the park’s ecosystems." **Please note that this is a very busy park during the summer, especially during weekends so make sure to plan accordingly.**
Humble Cow Ice Cream
Delicious ice cream! "Humble Cow is your neighborhood ice cream shop. Come enjoy their cozy environment where you’re free to hang out and stay a while. Dairy-free and vegan options, floats with craft root beer, milkshakes made from scratch, and even pet-friendly desserts for your pup!"
Olympic Flight Museum
"The Olympic Flight Museum was established in 1998 at the Olympia Regional Airport in Olympia, Washington. The Olympic Flight Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and flying of vintage aircraft. The museum was founded with the goal of bringing people together to relive, recollect and learn about aviation history."
Millersylvania State Park
"With two swimming beaches, miles of forested hiking and biking trails, boat launches, non-motorized watercraft rentals (kayaks, paddleboards, pedal boats) and abundant fishing, Millersylvania will keep you busy for a satisfying weekend or an extended outdoor vacation."
Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar
"Created by 2nd generation shellfish farmers Shina Wysocki and Kyle Lentz, Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar serves the freshest, locally-sourced shellfish in the county at Olympia’s hip 222 Market. With a family friendly atmosphere and a 21+ bar section, it's a place to enjoy food, friends and family."
Well 80 Brewhouse
Well 80 is a new brewery and brewpub built on the site of one of Olympia, Washington’s famous Artesian wells. In fact, this delicious well water is used in brewing their line of tasty craft beers. An all-ages restaurant, Well 80 serves pizza, burgers, and sandwiches, all with a unique twist.
Heritage Distilling Company
"Heritage Distilling Company (HDC) is among the top premier craft distilleries in the United States, making a variety of whiskeys, vodkas, gins, aquavit and rums from as many local ingredients as possible. HDC is one of the largest craft distilleries on the West Coast and is the largest independently owned craft distillery in Washington State."
McMenamins Spar Café
"Originally a blue-collar joint for dockworkers and loggers, the modern interpretation is a gathering spot for any history buff. Even the beer is historic! All beers onsite are brewed with water harvested from the 3,330 year old artesian well that gave life to the original Olympia Brewing Co. Little ones enjoy bites from the Kid’s menu including the Buckaroo Bowl or a Pocket Hercules Burger!"
Three Magnets Brewing Co.
"Located in the heart of downtown Olympia, Three Magnets Brewing Co. is a craft brewery specializing in rustic and farmhouse ales. With longtime Washington Chef Frank Magana at the helm, offerings are tasty and creative to pair with its rotating taps, including gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options to boot. Be on the lookout for limited-time collaborations with local partners like Hama Hama Oysters. From pimento cheese dip and avocado fries to beer cheese soup and a jalapeno jam burger, there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy the kid’s menu with favorites like freshly squeezed lemonade, finger-licking fry sauce or peanut butter and jelly, best enjoyed on the patio."
222 Market
"222 Market is an artisanal market located in downtown Olympia, Washington. Combined in an open aired environment, multiple restaurants and shops form a centerpiece in Olympia living. Their family-friendly facility, restaurants, and shoppes offer a unique pass to city living, in the small town you know and love. Travelers and residents alike agree 222 Market is a must see."
Cascadia Grill
"A Northwest brasserie, celebrating the independent spirit, food, wine, and craft beer of the Pacific Northwest. ...and Bigfoot!"
Eastside Big Tom
"A burger landmark, this drive-thru burger joint serves up burgers, sandwiches, dogs, milkshakes and more."
Gardner's Restaurant
"Gardner’s has been family owned since 1983 and has proven to be the favorite place to dine in Olympia. They strive to use the freshest, local and seasonal ingredients. Everything is created from scratch, including soups and sauces to an abundance of desserts. You will find many handcrafted cocktails and delicious local wines to complement your meal."
Vic's Pizzeria Wildwood
An Olympia favorite and a must for pizza!
Matchless Brewing
"The Matchless Brewing taproom features 12 rotating taps of their latest and greatest beers, a large indoor seating area as well as an outdoor patio. The taproom offers a unique view of our working brewery with ample seating. They welcome bringing your own food. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome!"
Mercato Ristorante
"Since opening in 2002, Mercato Ristorante has been a favorite of locals and visitors to Olympia. Both urban and comfortable, Mercato is an upscale casual restaurant whose focus is simple, fresh Italian fare. Every menu item is prepared fresh and from-scratch, and it shows. Mercato also features a beautifully crafted bar, where delightful cocktails are mixed, local beers are poured, and both Northwest and Italian wines are featured. Be sure to stop by for brunch on the weekends!"
Northwest Beerwerks
"Not just a Tap Room! Northwest Beerwerks offers guests a comfortable atmosphere where they can enjoy a wide selection of craft beer, wine, cider, & mead. They offer a rotating selection of 32 taps, two of which are dedicated to nitro only. Plus dedicated taps for wine and cider enthusiasts! Additionally they have a wide variety of unique beer in bottles and cans. Create your own sampler pack or drink them here. Outside food is allowed and available from one of the local eateries as well as at food trucks set up street side!"
River's Edge
"The River’s Edge is Tumwater’s premier sports bar and dining destination. Featuring a state of the art sports bar, large banquet spaces, and a fantastic new menu, the River’s Edge has something for everyone."
Rumors Wine Bar
"Located in the heart of downtown Olympia, Rumors is all about wine and the folks savoring it. Their delicious and intriguing wines are carefully selected from vineyards all over the world. Specials are offered daily as well as wine tastings throughout the year. They offer beer too for those beer lovers!"
Swing Wine Bar
"Swing Wine Bar is perched on the hill overlooking Capitol Lake. At night, their glass mosaic bar glows warmly and the niches in their converted bungalow create intimate seating areas. Relax on the outdoor patio where beautiful views of Capitol Lake, Budd Inlet and the Olympic Mountains await you. They currently pour over 30 wines by the glass and offer over 200 bottle selections, the largest in the South Sound. They are especially pleased to promote local wines from Washington State and our friends in the Willamette Valley."
Compass Rose
"Sophisticated and chic with a nod to Pacific Northwest style, Compass Rose, located in the heart of Olympia, has been wowing Washington customers and visitors from around the country since it opened in 1999. They offer thoughtfully curated collections of handcrafted jewelry, home décor and kitchen items, and Pacific Northwest inspired goods."
Ember Goods
"Ember Goods is a family-owned coffee shop and retail goods space in the heart of downtown Olympia, Washington, built to be the perfect pit-stop for your next adventure in and out of the city."
Peacock Vintage
"Peacock Vintage is an antique shop specializing in Mid Century Modern glass, décor and furniture. They also have a large selection of very old Victorian furniture."
Archibald Sisters
*Another Olympia favorite!* "For over 25 years, Archibald Sisters has been the go-to place for personal care essentials that appeal to all ages. From fun gifts to handmade lotions, you can even make your own scented lotion."
Museum of Pop Culture
"Nestled beside the iconic Space Needle at the Seattle Center, the Museum of Pop Culture is a nonprofit museum that features in-depth exhibitions and hands-on experiences that bring pop culture to life."
Olympic National Park
**Must purchase a pass to enter** "Olympic National Park is on Washington's Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest. The park sprawls across several different ecosystems, from the dramatic peaks of the Olympic Mountains to old-growth forests. The summit of glacier-clad Mt. Olympus is popular with climbers, and hiking and backpacking trails cut through the park's rainforests and along its Pacific coastline. "
Ape Cave Interpretive Site
"Explore a chilly, pitch-black lava tube over two miles long. A short, paved, accessible trail beneath towering trees leads to a stairwell into the cave. The ¾ mile, one-way lower cave route is relatively easy and family friendly. For the more adventurous, the 1.5 mile upper cave route leads to a climb up an eight foot rock wall and scramble over rock piles, then an exit and a 1.5 mile above ground hike back to the parking lot. "
Cape Flattery
**Recreation permit is required** "The furthest northwest tip of the contiguous United State, Cape Flattery provides a dramatic backdrop to a surprisingly accessible hike. It's managed by the Makah Tribe, who provide permits for parking in Neah Bay."