Historic Downtown Olympia
Olympia is the capital of Washington, which I had since forgotten from….what grade did we have to memorize state capitals? It’s a gorgeous small town on the coast of Washington. It’s full of charm and is one of my favorite places to visit since it’s just twenty minutes from us. Here’s some things we love to hit on an afternoon in Olympia.
Olympia Waterfront
Parking is available on the street, at the Farmers Market, or in the plazas nearby the waterfront. There is a small park with a walking path that goes along the water. You can walk out onto the dock and see the boats up close, we were lucky enough to check out a sailboat practice. The water is so beautiful and there is a lookout tower that will give you an extensive view. You can see the state capital building from the water and it makes a great background.
Olympia Farmer’s Market
Right across from the waterfront you’ll find the Farmers Market. The Olympia Farmers Market is one of the few that is open more days than the weekend. It is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm. There is plenty of fresh fruits and veggies, baked goods, food trucks and restaurants, and craft vendors. Check out my blog post on all of the Farmers Markets in the area for comparisons!
For more info, click here.
Right across the street is the Market Center. It’s got some shops, restaurants, a coffee place, and some services. It is worth checking out! My favorite is on the back side, Macaroons by Mel. They are large and delicious.
Hands On Children’s Museum
We have been to quite a few Children’s museums over the years and I have to say that this one tops the list. It is a very nice museum and you can tell that it had a big budget. They have all kinds of different activities for the kids. You have the classic play areas like the grocery store, garden, and flower shop. You’ve also got a water play area and a science area with water powered shooting balls and fog. The giant three story jungle gym in the middle has an ocean floor that goes up to a birds nest in the sky. There is a special gated play area for kids 4 and under if you have little ones.
The outside area is almost as big as the inside. They have a large driftwood village where kids can build with wood and make mud pies. There is a tricycle shed with a paved path for riding. Kids can also climb up to the top of the lighthouse to play. General admission is $15, Military and first responders are $13 and babies under 18 months are free. The first Friday of every month is free for two people, each additional is $2.
Hands on Children’s Museum is open Monday through Saturday 10am to 5pm.
For more info, click here.
WET Science Center
Best part about this place? It’s free for everyone, all the time. The WET science center is open Monday through Saturday, 10am to 4pm. We haven’t gotten the chance to explore it yet, but I’ll update when we do!
Walk around Downtown
There is a ton of shops and restaurants worth browsing in downtown Olympia. There is metered street parking and a few pay parking lots.
Here’s some places I recommend checking out:
222 Market – This fun indoor market has a few restaurants, shops, an ice cream stand, and a wine bar. A super cute flower shop and gift shop inside is called Fleurae.
Browsers Bookshop – Such a fun book store! Bring some books you are no longer interested in and they’ll buy them for store credit. They have a great selection of new and used books, local items, gift items, and more.
Archibald Sisters – I’m pretty sure this is the most eclectic store I’ve ever been in. A really wide range of items from inappropriate bachelorette party straws (you know what shape I’m talking about) to postcards and stickers of Washington state. My favorite area is the make your own lotion or perfume bar. They have an extensive variety of scents available in lotion, body wash, and perfume. Lush was my favorite scent.
Hot Toddy – When I walked in here I felt as though I traveled back in time. This is the store you need if you’re looking for a pin up outfit. Pin up dresses, shoes, hats and clothing. Although it’s not my style, I enjoyed walking inside.
Compass Rose – This is one of my favorite shops! They have a few locations in the area and it’s the place for local items, jewelry, candles, kitchenware, and more. You’ll spend way more money than you thought but you’ll go home with all the things.
Old Capital Building – In the middle of the downtown area you’ll find the Old Capital Building. It’s a gorgeous sight of old architecture.
Captain Little – I’m pretty positive this is the cutest children’s store I’ve ever been in. It looks like a store that belongs inside the Mall of America. It has everything a kid needs other than clothing. Toys, oh so many toys. So basically, don’t take them with you when you go or they’ll want everything. In the store you’ll also find science kits, art supplies, gadgets, nature exploring tools, puzzles, stuffed animals, lunch box gear, and so much more. They have a stamp card so make sure to grab one if you buy anything. If you’re local, take your kiddo to story time the first Tuesday of every month at 11am.
Ember Goods – Not only is this a neat clothing store, it’s also a coffee shop! They’ve got outdoor gear, and a small selection of men’s and woman’s clothing. They had this gorgeous jean jacket with a painting of Mount Ranier on the back by a local artist. If you wear a size large please go buy it, I wanted it so bad.
For more info about Olympia, click here.
Finding the fun everywhere life takes us!
Love, Olivia Michelle
