Welcome to Olympia
Historic state capital with urban, suburban, and rural communities
Washington state’s capital city of Olympia is a beautiful place to create a home. Located on the south end of Puget Sound, this city encompasses a diverse mix of neighborhoods and amenities. Ranging from rural to urban, you can easily find the exact type of neighborhood you seek when exploring Olympia. The current population sits at just over 51,00 (as of 2019). Olympia is situated approximately 60 miles southwest of Seattle and about 30 miles southwest of Tacoma.
In Downtown and the Historic District, you’ll encounter an energetic shopping and dining scene, full of must-see places like the Hands-On Children’s Museum, The Olympia Farmers Market, Rainbow Rails, and Heritage Park. Moving away from the city’s center, there is an abundance of parks, peaceful communities, and even more top-rated restaurants and stores. On the furthest outskirts of Olympia, you can purchase a home that is tucked away in what feels like the middle of the countryside.
What to Love
- Capital of Washington State
- Outstanding public schools
- Vibrant Downtown and Historic District
- The Olympia Farmers Market
- Brimming with parks and green spaces
Local Lifestyle
Being a resident of Olympia comes with an endless list of perks and benefits. Any kind of experience you seek — both for everyday living and for entertainment — can be found within city limits. Individuals and families looking to relocate to the area can move into a rural neighborhood with bucolic charm, a suburban community with newly built homes, or the vibrant and energetic city center. Around Olympia, you can visit parks, museums, top stores, and highly-rated restaurants. You can also explore several fun sights and landmarks, which are favorites among both locals and tourists.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Throughout every part of Olympia, you have access to a wonderful selection of shopping and dining establishments.
Starting in Downtown and the Historic District, thrill your taste buds by dining at the city’s most beloved restaurants. Seafood is an especially big deal in Olympia. Upon moving to the area, make plans to sample the cuisine at Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar, Gardner’s Seafood & Pasta, Dockside Bistro & Wine Bar, Budd Bay Cafe, Cascadia Grill, Olympia Oyster House, King Solomon’s Reef, Oly Rockfish Grill, Mercato Ristorante, and Anthony’s Homeport Olympia.
Across the bridge from Downtown Olympia, there are other fantastic restaurants that are closer to some of the city’s large suburban neighborhoods. For your next meal, grab a table at Stack 571 Burger and Whiskey, Mediterranean Breeze, La Petite Maison, The Westside Tavern, Iron Rabbit Restaurant & Bar, Basil Leaf Restaurant, and Hash. Nearby, you can also go shopping at a wide variety of stores, including Target, Olympia Ace Hardware, JOANN Fabrics and Crafts, T.J. Maxx, World Market, Safeway, and HomeGoods.
Things to Do
Olympia is overflowing with unique things to do during your leisure time. Downtown and the Historic District are filled with fun places to check out.
Thursdays through Sundays, head to The Olympia Farmers Market located on Market Street NE. The expansive market features a rotating list of local vendors each week. Close by, cast off from the Fiddlehead Marina or from The Olympia Yacht Club. Are you heading outdoors? Make plans to visit other notable spots in Olympia, including Heritage Park, West Bay Park, Yauger Park, Priest Point Park, and Yashiro Japanese Garden.
Schools
Public schools in Olympia are unparalleled in terms of quality. Four area schools have a 9/10 rating on GreatSchools.org, with many others earning an 8/10.
