6 Things to Do in Olympia, Washington—From Parks to a Flight Museum

Experience the beauty and charm of Olympia, Washington! Once a center of maritime trade, this scenic capital city now boasts museums, gourmet dining, markets and access to awe-inspiring national parks.

Tour the Olympia Flight Museum

Start your day at the Olympia Flight Museum, where you can explore historical military artifacts, detailed scale models and an impressive array of vintage planes and helicopters that once ruled the skies.

Nosh on seafood at Budd Bay Cafe

For lunch, enjoy waterfront dining at Budd Bay Cafe. From a patio seat with a view, savor Pacific Northwest favorites like Manila clams, seafood Caesar salad, red curry packed with fresh seafood and more.

Connect with nature at Squaxin Park

In the afternoon, head to Squaxin Park, a 314-acre natural refuge just minutes from downtown. Walk the lush trails beneath towering trees, then make your way to the shoreline to see the postcard-worthy sunset.

Spy adorable white-tailed deer

The shy animals are often found near farmland and riverfronts.

Take a tour inside the Washington State Capitol

The current Legislative building was finished in 1928 after a design competition. 

Walk through wetlands in the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Wildlife Refuge in Olympia
Getty

The refuge is located where the freshwater Nisqually River meets the Puget Sound.

Experience Olympia at home!

Nothing says Olympia like enjoying tasty seafood and learning about one of the monuments at the state Capitol.

Creamy Crab Dip

Baked crab dip
Adobe Stock

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. lump crab meat
  • 8 oz. cream cheese
  • 12 cup mayo
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • 1 Tbs. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbs. lemon juice
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 12 tsp. salt

In a bowl, mix all ingredients. Transfer to 2-qt. baking dish. Chill until ready to bake. Bake 25 minutes at 350°F. Serves 12. 

Virtual tour: Winged Victory Monument 

Learn more about the World War I memorial by watching the “Mobile Virtual Tour — Winged Victory Monument” on YouTube. 

For more travel fun, check out our Woman’s World travel booking site!

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