Sightseeing in Olympia, Washington

Western Washington, with it's oceanic climate is home to everything from sublime natural displays to treacherous hiking and mountaineering adventures. Art exhibitions, appetizing cuisine and learning of it's unique and colorful history may suit the more cautious visitor.

As a resident of Tumwater, a suburb of Olympia, I can tell you there's a multitude of sightseeing opportunities in the vicinity. Just a half mile from the Olympia city line is the Olympia Brewery. Founded in 1906, it's a historic and memorable structure to Olympia's residents. It resides at the base of the roaring Tumwater Falls, which flows into Capitol Lake, an artificial lake created in 1951 by the acclaimed landscape architect John Olmsted. A visitor can take tours, learn of it's history and of course, get free samples of the in-house beers.

Just a short walk from the Brewery is the Washington State Capitol Building, which sits atop a hill overlooking the lake. The Capitol campus consists of several government buildings, right in the midst of downtown Olympia. It's very accessible and friendly toward visitors, with tours available daily and even virtual tours that can be taken through their website. Literature, souvenirs, and informational pamphlets are on hand if you'd like to grab something to remember the visit by or learn more about the facilities.

Downtown Olympia is only a few blocks away from the Capitol building. It's entire expanse is about 10 blocks by 10 blocks, but within it's small space are crowded with entertaining and engrossing locations. Downtown is particularly known for it's bohemian and free-spirited populations, considering the infamous liberal arts college, Evergreen State is only a few miles away. Festivals and live music are the norm for an average night in this area of Olympia.

Should you seek more adventurous activities, Tolmie State Park is only around three miles north of Tumwater. Located along the Budd Inlet, this 105-acre park features hiking paths, beaches and camping grounds. The trails scale from beginner to advanced, fit for only the most accomplished explorers. All sorts of activities can be done here, from boating in the Puget Sound to enjoying a daytime picnic with your family. In the summers, it's not unusual to see scores of clam diggers and fishermen scouring the beaches and waterfronts.

Olympia, the capitol city of Washington, which sits at the southern edge of the Puget Sound is home to all sorts of activities. While most tourists overlook this locality, it's a worthwhile destination due to it's unique culture and topography.