About Olympia

City of Olympia | Capital of Washington State

With an economic engine fueled to a great extent by state government, Olympia enjoys the benefits of a stable work force, engaged and educated community, and well-supported school system.

Historic downtown Olympia offers a variety of eclectic shopping and dining experiences, while Olympia's westside is a regional shopping destination at numerous national brand stores and the auto mall.

Mild winters and pleasantly warm summers make the Olympia area an ideal place for outdoor recreation. In Olympia, you can "get out of town" without even leaving the city. Olympia maintains 40 public parks for your recreation enjoyment. Public trails lead to saltwater beaches where native tribes once met for potlatches through woods thick with big-leaf maples and towering Douglas firs. Salmon return to Budd Inlet each fall and run the ladder under the 5th Avenue Bridge.

Olympia's strategic geographic location along Interstate 5 at the gateway to the Olympic Peninsula, puts one within two hours or less of regional recreational attractions - from hiking and skiing in the mountains to beachcombing along ocean shores.

History

Olympia has a rich history!  The town was platted by Edmund Sylvester in 1850. The Maine native laid out a New England style community with a town square, tree lined streets, land for schools, and a Masonic Hall. Learn more...

Attractions

Olympia has plenty to see and do!  Whether you're interested in the arts or the great outdoors, the traditions State government or dancing in a fountain, Olympia really does have something for everybody. Learn more...

Public Art

Olympia cares about art!  In 1990 City Council passed an ordinance that one dollar per person and 1 percent of major City construction projects be set aside for public art. The benefits of this can be seen throughout the City. Learn more...

Schools

Olympia emphasizes education!  With three top-notch K-12 school districts and several levels of higher education in the greater Thurston County area, Olympia is a great place to lay the building blocks for the rest of your life. Learn more...