by Matt Collins

4 Reasons Moving to Olympia Washington is a Great Choice

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Moving to a different place can be life-changing. And you definitely don’t want to end up making the wrong choices. Certainly, it takes a whole lot of consideration and careful planning to get the BEST place to call home. So if you’re looking into interesting places to live in, Olympia Washington should be on the top of your list.

“Getting out of town without leaving the city” is how many people would describe the City of Olympia Washington, as it stands as the capital city of the State of Washington. Because it is a setting of many recreational parks, public trails and tourist attractions that both residents and travelers to enjoy. Olympia Washington is also run by a very stable and healthy economy. A city supported by the state government that experiences the benefits of a stable workforce and a great environment for businesses to thrive.

How to get there?

Table of Contents

Olympia is the largest city of the Thurston County with a total area of 50.97 km² or about 19 square miles, so it is easy to look for it on the map. It is the county seat of Puget Sound where it can be found on the southern end of it. Similarly, how the Greeks have its own sanctuary of the mighty Zeus, Washington also has its own Olympia.

Olympia Washington is located 47.46 miles southwest of Seattle. It can be traveled usually at 61 miles (1 hour 4 mins) by car and faster by plane at 48 miles from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The city can also be reached at any rate through public transportations like buses and trains from transit stations of Lacey, Seattle, and Tacoma.

It is easy to get directions, surely you don’t even need a map to get to Olympia Washington. Just hold on to your seat belts and be prepared to be amazed by the city lights and attractions along the way.

What is living in Olympia Washington really like?

Now that you know how to get there, it’s time to get to know more about the O-Town and how living there makes the best choice for yourself and your family.

As one of the Pacific Northwest’s glittering cities, Olympia Washington continues to have a booming economy. Thus, Oly can never be left out by its neighboring towns! The City of Olympia is likewise a home of diverse people and culture because the state government invests in community-related programs that cater to the needs of its people. Indeed, its mighty sustainability makes Olympia Washington an ideal place to live in.

So here’s an insider scoop to what living in Olympia Washington really like.

The Olympian Way

If you are looking for cool neighbors at home and free-spirited passersby on the streets then you may find them here in Olympia. Various people of age, sexual preferences, and race live in peace while being proud of who they really are.

Olympia Washington has roughly over 51, 202 residents as of early 2018 according to the World Population Review. It ranked 24th on the list of the most populous city in Washington with Seattle being on the top. So you might want to consider Olympia if uncrowded streets are your priority.

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in the area, we highly recommend Greene Realty Group.

Here are the reasons why you should consider Olympia Washington when it comes to people and culture:

People

First, the city’s population is composed of diverse major and minor ethnicities. Olympia shelters majorities, in particular, of White, Asian, African Americans, and other races. Since Olympia Washington is rich with Native American History, it is also home for American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islanders.

Second, the government of Olympia Washington not only focuses on race and ethnicities but also on sexual orientation. The city has an open door for anyone and raising that rainbow flag with pride.

Olympia Washington embraces people of color whether inside or out. And this is through supporting different community organizations that promote individuality, diversification, and equality. So if you belong to the people with color, Asians, Hispanics or one of the letters in the LGBTQ community, then you are welcome to live and breathe in the City of Olympia.

Culture

Last and equally important, Liberalism and Democracy. Olympia practices the liberal culture. You can walk and wear your own statements outside the streets. Even protest your own right to fight for your advocacies. Olympia Washington is an open mic to every people to speak and the government to hear. Be an Olympian and live the Olympian way!

The busy streets and ports of Olympia Washington

Do you have a mind of a window shopper or better yet an entrepreneur? Well, say hello to the busy downtowns and business streets of Olympia. Granted that the city has a healthy economy, you can find better jobs or build your own business empire.

Olympia Washington ranked 16th according to Forbes: Best Places for Business and Careers. It has an unemployment rate of 4.9% with a job growth of 3.4% in 2017. In fact, The unemployment rate of the city decreases overtime thus, giving more sustainable livelihood to more people. Olympia Washington has a cost of living cheaper than that of its neighboring cities like Tacoma and Seattle. So you can maintain and afford your own lifestyle. Downtown Olympia is the centerpiece of the town offering a variety of eclectic shopping and dining options. Olympia’s westside is one of the largest shopping destinations in the South Puget Sound with a large shopping mall complex at Capital Mall. And a thriving auto mall with several dealerships all located near one central location.

Now moving away from the uptown, the agriculture, and fishing industries are also flourishing in Olympia Washington. Farmers most work on the Westside of Olympia. Small-scale artisan farmers sell their produce in the West Olympia Farmers’ Market. The Olympia Farmers’ Market is the second largest farmers market in the state of Washington. Visit a variety of vendors including crafts, farms with fresh organic produce and fruits, meats, fresh seafood, fresh cut flowers, and live entertainment.

The Port of Olympia Washington is also famous for “small in size; mighty in sustainability” according to the article in Business View Magazine.

1. Schools in Olympia Washington

Olympia Washington has a very engaged and educated community that is taken care of by a well-supported education system. So no need to worry about where you want to send your kids for school. Here is the list of schools you can choose from:

2. Weather and Climate in Olympia Washington

Olympia has light winters and beautiful warm summers that offer the full experience of the Pacific Northwest.

It gets an average of 48 inches of rain and 8 inches of snow per year. It is not always rainy in Olympia just because it is near a body of water. Olympia Washington also experiences summer days and it usually during July at around 76 degrees. It has about 136 sunny days all year round. But if you are looking for a colder climate, Olympia likewise gets rain, snow, and hail. It scored 75 out of 100 in the Sperling’s Comfort Index.

3. Public Safety in Olympia Washington

Nothing is more comfortable than living in a place where you can get a good night sleep. The City government of Olympia truly makes sure that public safety is the main priority. And this is through partnering with different organizations and launching effective community programs. Above all, the government and the residents work together to make the city a safer place to live in.

Olympia Washington Police Department

The Olympia Police Department certainly does its best to provide excellent and reliable services to the people of the city. They implement various programs accordingly to maintain peace and order within the residential and commercial area in Olympia. The programs include volunteerism work in order to encourage the members of the community to get involved in keeping the neighborhood safe. These are some of the programs implemented by the Police Department that you may want to know:

1. Block Watch

What better way to promote safety than starting your own crime watch in your neighborhood? Block Watch is one of the crime prevention programs of the government that specifically aims to reduce crime rates, to develop better neighborhood security and to increase crime trend awareness. Neighbors can work together and carry their own block watch with no more than 20-30 homes. This can not only raise security awareness and prevent crimes but also it can be a way to get to know more about your neighbors.

2. Neighborhood Speed Watch Program

It is also safer in the streets of Olympia not only from street offenders but also raging public and private vehicles that may be dangerous to people on the streets. The Neighborhood Speed Watch Program is also one of the volunteerism work headed by the city hence to promote public awareness of traffic safety. Volunteers are trained to properly use the device for knowing speed, data report and collection, and proper behavior during the watch.

3. Security Alarm Program

The Olympia Police Department encourages residents to acquire and register an alarm system with the city. And this is implemented for better and immediate response from the department in case a verified emergency arrives.

Olympia Fire Department

The Olympia Fire Department (OFD) deals heavily with safety measures to prevent fire occurrence in the residential area. It has its own 8 acre complex as a Fire Training Center for developing better firefighters. The Fire Training Center is composed of a Commercial Drill Tower, Command Training Center, Two Story Residential Tower, Drill Area, and other props.

The City of Olympia also promoted a Fire Sprinkler Ordinance on July 2014. This ordinance requires all types of residential properties to have their own fire sprinklers.

The Olympia Fire Department also offers free blood pressure check-ups at all fire stations on weekdays from 7am to 9pm.

SAFE Olympia

Olympia Washington never forgets the LGBTQ Community. With all the hate and discriminations around the world, Olympia makes sure to let all members of the community feel safe. This program aims to reduce discrimination, bullying and hate crimes against the LGBTQ community. Through the SAFE Program, whether a member or a non-member of the LGBTQ Community, you can safely report crimes and discrimination against them. The city partnered with local residents, businesses and organizations for the implementation of the program. A “SAFE OLYMPIA” rainbow police badge signages are being displayed by the members supporting the program.

4. Things to do in Olympia

The most exciting part of living in Olympia Washington is getting around the city. There are many attractions, not only for tourists but also to residents, that the city has to offer. Here are the following things you can do and places you can enjoy:

Getting in touch with Nature

If you love nature and want to leave the hustle and bustle of the city life, it is easy to make a getaway to one of our 40 public parks to get in touch with nature and enjoy recreational activities. Olympia has strategic access to the main Interstate 5 freeway and puts you within two hours or less of regional attractions such as Snoqualmie pass and Ocean Shores. Also, the forests offer woods this with large leaf maple trees and gigantic Douglas firs. Olympia Washington is rich with Native American history and a lot of the parks will lead you to beaches where native tribes once met. Moreover, the rivers are rich with salmon and return to 5th Ave bridge yearly to run the ladder.

You may also want to visit the wonderful view of the following:

Offut Lake Resort

Offut Lake is a small family-owned campground near Tenino, WA, about 15 minutes south of Olympia. They are about an hour away from the Space Needle, Mt. St. Helens, ocean beaches and Hood Canal. They offer cabins, RV and tent camping, a lakefront restaurant and bar, dock fishing, boat rentals, fishing licenses, tackle and plenty of outdoor fun!

The resort lends itself to the tranquility of the lake by allowing electric motor boats only. The lake is open for fishing all year. The resort is open around all 4 seasons. So, come fishing for the day, plan a family weekend, a romantic getaway or stay longer to explore the many sights western Washington has to offer.

Heritage Park

Heritage Park is a 24-acre state-owned park adjacent to the State Capitol Campus, Capitol Lake, and downtown Olympia. It is the northern extension of the historic West Capitol Campus. The park features walking/running paths that encircle the entire perimeter of the park and Capitol Lake, and connect to other pedestrian paths. The Heritage Park Trail, a switchback trail at the south end of the park, winds its way up to the historic Capitol Campus on the bluff above.

Chehalis Western Trail

The historic Chehalis Western Railroad, which operated from 1926 through the mid-1980’s, has now then become the Chehalis Western Trail. The trail runs north-south through the heart of Thurston County then links up with the County-owned 14.5-mile Yelm-Tenino Trail.

It passes through a variety of ecosystems and environments in both the urban and rural areas of the County. It provides access to over 170-acres of parkland including nearly two (2) miles of frontage along the Deschutes River. Likewise, it features access to the Puget Sound, Chambers Lake, wetlands, forests, farmland, creeks, prairies, and other habitats. Thurston County-owns and operates 22 miles of Chehalis Western Trail in public ownership.

Furthermore, the trail is an integral and significant linkage in the planned 48-mile county-managed trail system. It features four trailhead facilities with parking, restrooms, and picnic facilities at the Chambers Lake Boat Launch, Scenic Overlook at Chambers Lake, the Yelm Highway Pedestrian Overpass, a trailhead at 67th Avenue with parking and trail information, and a parking area at Fir Tree Road. The northern section has a trailhead at Woodard Bay with parking and restrooms. With spectacular views, the trail system provides excellent opportunities for users to enjoy a tranquil and refreshing outdoor recreation experience at any time of the year.

Billy Frank JR. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is located where the freshwater of the Nisqually River meets the saltwater of south Puget Sound, as a result, creating the Nisqually River Delta. The delta is a biologically-rich and diverse area that supports a variety of habitats including the estuary, freshwater wetlands, and riparian woodlands. It is considered the last unspoiled major estuary in Puget Sound.

The Nisqually Delta has been designated as a National Natural Landmark because of its national significance as one of the best examples of this kind of coastal salt marsh system remaining in the North Pacific. Specifically, Nisqually Refuge is famous for the more than 275 migratory bird species that use the refuge for migration, wintering, or breeding. The refuge provides rearing and migration habitat for steelhead trout and several salmon species and habitat for a variety of threatened and endangered species.

The Black River Unit, southwest of Olympia, provides high-quality habitat for Coho and Chinook salmon, steelhead trout, migratory birds, and a diversity of other species. The Black River, in particular, is one of the largest undisturbed freshwater wetland systems remaining in western Washington. Situated between Olympia and Seattle and within 100 miles of more than 4 million people, Nisqually Refuge is visited each year by more than 100,000 people. They come to enjoy and learn about these sensitive natural resources. With this in mind, the refuge provides environmental education programs for 8,000 school children every year.

Northwest Paddle Surfers

If you love the water then you can go to Stand Up Paddle (SUP) and kayak rentals at Long Lake Park in Lacey. Reservations can be made online and military discounts are available.

Tolmie State Park

Picture yourself walking your dog down a peaceful beach on a Tuesday evening or at the same beach on a Saturday afternoon, wiping ice cream off your kids’ faces. If these thoughts make you smile, Tolmie could be your state park. Set on a spit in a cove, Tolmie State Park is remarkably close to Olympia, Tacoma and the communities in between. Backed by a forest, the park’s main draw is the beach, with calm waters for pint-sized waders.

The area is filled with families on summer weekends, but it can be quiet during the week. And its shaded trails provide more than 3 miles of hiking. Looking to dig up some dinner? Bring your muck boots and permits, check the tides and get out on the flats. It is because clamming is big here, as are crabbing and saltwater fishing. Use one of the park’s fire pits to make a fresh outdoor meal. Park features Tolmie State Park is a 105-acre marine day-use park with 1,800 feet of saltwater shoreline on Puget Sound.

The park offers a variety of beach activities and an underwater park that contains an artificial reef built in cooperation with scuba divers. Tolmie also features a saltwater marsh and abundant wildlife. Discover Pass: A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to state parks for day use. For more information about the Discover Pass and exemptions, please visit the Discover Pass web page.

Tumwater Falls Park

At the small, historic city of Tumwater, Washington, the Deschutes River ends its journey from the shoulders of the Cascade. Then it ranges to tumble a final 82 feet into Capitol Lake, once the final reach of Puget Sound. Here, bordering the banks of the river is Tumwater Falls Park. Providing the visitor with 15 acres filled with natural, picturesque beauty and year-round atmosphere of enjoyment for those of all ages.

A wide variety of native trees and shrubs line both sides of the river as it pitches and eddies through a Gorge of bouldered rapids and deep pools. The park’s course culminating in a mist-filled plunge over Tumwater Falls. One-half mile of walking trails are highlighted by cascading waterfalls, still, reflective pools and massive rocks. Next, spanning the river at both ends of the gorge and connecting the network of trails are footbridges designed for compatibility with the surroundings and historical accuracy.

At the upper reaches and entrance to the Park, visitors will find the following:

wide expanses of beautifully maintained lawns
picnic facilities
a sand-filled area for children featuring uniquely designed play items
immaculate restrooms
ample parking

Family Friendly Attractions

Olympia is covered in fun family-friendly attractions ranging from Family Farms to Trampoline Gyms like BoomShaka. Bring everyone and don’t miss out to some of the following family attractions in the city:

Ashley Creek Farms

The Ashley Creek Farm is a small farm tucked away on the outskirts of Olympia, WA. It features three artesian wells that are running all year long. Wild salmon spawn in Ashley Creek every year. The property around the farm is rich with wildlife with everything from Blue Herons to Salamanders. Thus, a great experience for the whole family.

Cabellas

Cabela’s is located near Olympia in Lacey, Washington. It is a 185,000-square-foot retail store filled with entertaining attractions such as a décor of museum-quality animal displays, huge aquariums, and trophy animals interacting in realistic re-creations of their natural habitats. A great family friendly place to go for outdoor enthusiasts.

Boomshaka

The BoomShaka holds over 10,000 square feet of connected, world-class trampolines in a 23,000 sq. ft warehouse facility. The trampoline portion of the space features over 60 trampolines, including the famous angled wall trampolines, launching decks and a few surprises up in the ceiling to test your vertical.

Helsing Junction Farm

CSA, Farm Stand Helsing Junction Farm have 100+ varieties of organically certified vegetables, strawberries, raspberries, apples, Asian pears, herbs and flowers. The CSA members receive a box of fresh produce and flowers weekly Jun-Oct. Moreover, they offer additional mushroom, kraut, honey, and flour shares. Yearly events include a local music festival and farm open house. We have a farm stand which is open 7 days a week with vegetables, flowers, fruit, pickles and canning supplies for sale. Phone, email, or check our website for driving directions.

Hunter Family Farm

Hunter Family Farm is one of the largest tree and pumpkin patches in the area. A great place to bring the entire family for a Christmas tree, a pumpkin or visit the farm animals. The corn stand usually opens August-September based on availability.

Rutledge Corn Maze LLC

Are you looking to start a new family tradition or continue an old one? Look no further. Rutledge Corn Maze has something for everyone! Get lost in our giant corn maze or hunt through the pumpkin patch for your perfect pumpkin. Day-time activities include story-time with Spookley the Square Pumpkin, corn hole and swings! You can also take a ride on the NEW cow train! When the sun sets Rutledge offers a Haunted Corn Maze and a Zombie Paintball Adventure! The Rutledge Corn Maze and all of its attractions have become a family tradition for many. Above all, come to create memories!

Schilter Family Farm

Farm Stand, U-Pick Open May- December with flowers, produce including strawberries, raspberries, corn, and row crops. U-pick pumpkin patch in October with a Harvest Festival including a corn maze and many other activities. Also, choose and cut Christmas trees the day after Thanksgiving through Dec. 20th. Take I-5 to exit #114 onto Nisqually Cutoff Road. Produce stand is at the corner of Martin Way and Nisqually Cutoff RD. Farm for pumpkins and Christmas trees is down the road 3/4 of a mile.

Shop, Dine, and Entertainment

You can also enjoy shopping with friends, eating delicious food and be amused with various tours and entertainments served in Olympia. There are many museums and theaters fit for every age and group. Come one, Come all!

Capital Mall

The Capital Mall offers the South Puget Sound families a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Capital Mall has a variety of stores holding more than 100 specialty shops including 10 restaurants, a 14 screen Century Theater, top retailers such as Macy’s, JCPenney’s, Best Buy, Forever 21, Bed Bad & Beyond, Old Navy, REI, Total Wine & More, and TJMaxx.

Capital Tour

If you visit or move to Olympia, you will want to also visit the Washington State Capitol Campus. The Capital Building offers tours of the campus to get the full experience. These free, walking tours are offered daily and typically last about 50 minutes.

Regal Cinemas

Fond of watching movies on the big screen? Go to the Regal Cinemas over at the Capital Mall and in Lacey for all of your moving viewing needs.

Great Wolf Lodge

Your Great Wolf Lodge adventure begins in the massive, 84-degree indoor water park. Splash the day away in over 56,000 square feet of water-packed excitement, including jaw-dropping slides for thrill seekers or zero-depth entry areas for little ones. Outside the water park, the fun continues. Afterward, grab a wand and battle a dragon in MagiQuest or get an ice cream-themed manicure in Scooops Kid Spa before gathering your family in the Grand Lobby for nightly fireside Story Time, the perfect ending to a Great Wolf day.

Hands On Children Museum

The museum has 28,000 square feet of indoor space and was built in November 2012. Its eight themed galleries create a sense of wonder and delight children who learn about science, technology, engineering, art and math through 150+ hands-on exhibits. Further, the museum has a half-acre Outdoor Discovery Center, one of the nation’s pilot sites for the Going Wild Program, where children can reconnect with nature. Hands On can also be the setting for your most memorable event ever!

With a half-acre of indoor space, in addition to a half-acre outdoor space complete with a beach, garden and lighthouse lookout, the museum is a unique venue your guests will love. The Museum creates a fun, whimsical atmosphere for your next corporate reception, holiday party, wedding, private dinner, fundraiser, family reunion or staff appreciation event.

Ice Chips Candy

Local manufacturer of great tasting candy that’s good for you as featured on the hit TV series Shark Tank! Promotes both mouth health and diabetic-friendly.

Lacey Museum

Through exhibits, educational programs, and research archives, the Lacey Museum tells the story of the community’s past, and how its rich history has affected the present and will shape the future. The Lacey Museum is located in a historic structure that was originally built in the late 1920s by Fred Russell as a private residence. Later in the 1940s, the building was used by the Lacey Volunteer Fire Department.

After Lacey incorporated as a city in 1966, it became the first city hall. In 1979, the decision was made to create a local museum on land donated by the Lacey Women’s club. The building was then moved from Pacific Avenue to its current location on Lacey Street. In 1981, the Lacey Museum opened to the public. The museum displays historical photographs, objects, and documents related to local heritage and Lacey history. The Museum also provides changing exhibits at the Lacey Timberland Library, Lacey City Hall, special events and at the Museum.

Furthermore, the Museum sponsors educational programs several times a year on local history, genealogy, and conservation techniques to school classes, community organizations, individuals and local groups. These programs are free and open to the public. Contact the museum curator at (360) 438-0209.

Laser Fun Zone

The Laser Fun Zone is the South Sound’s state of the art laser tag arena with more than 4200 square feet of excitement, adventure, and fun! In fact, it has a complete arcade that is fun for all ages. Walk-ins are always welcome! Laser Tag is a great activity for Sports Teams, Social Groups, Church Groups, Corporate Team Building, Schools and more!

Lemay Family Collection Foundation

From its roots as the original automotive collection of Harold & Nancy LeMay, started in the 1960′s, the LeMay Collections at Marymount is an expression of the continued growth of the LeMay Collections and a desire from the community to preserve the amazing LeMay Collections for the future. The LeMay family collections include more than 1,500 vintage vehicles, plus related Americana (dolls, toys, antiques, farm equipment, etc.). And much of that is located at Marymount, a distinct campus with a unique history all its own. The LeMay Collections at Marymount was established so future generations may enjoy all these artifacts year-round!

Monarch Sculpture Park

Monarch Sculpture Park provides a quiet natural setting for visitors to interact with sculpture created by artists from around the world. On-site is a one-acre maze shaped like a butterfly that is currently being restored, an interactive sound garden, picnic areas, and much more.

Olympia Family Theater

Olympia Family Theater engages audiences of all ages in performances and programs that entertain and educate. For information, online ticket sales, and education program enrollment visit: olyft.org.

Olympic Flight Museum

Bring your friends and family to share in the nostalgic splendor of our aviation heritage… From WWII trainers to jet interceptors, the museum’s collection is meticulously maintained and flown on a seasonal basis. The rotating display includes a recently restored FG-1D Corsair and P-51 Mustang fighter planes, UH-1 Huey and H-43 Huskie helicopters, and many others.

Likewise, the museum hosts the annual Olympic Air Show every year, where the aircraft collection is flown along with much more visiting historic aircraft.

Museum attractions include:

• Flying aircraft collection

• Aviation Artifacts

• Engine Displays

• Hundreds of scale models

• Hands-on exhibits

Squaxin Island Museum

The core theme of the Squaxin Island Museum is the strong connection between the seven inlets of South Puget Sound and the Squaxin Island Tribe – People of the Water. The series of exhibits of the Squaxin Island Museum Library and Research Center (MLRC) depict the culture, lifestyles, history and legends, practices and arts, etc of the tribe. Moreover, it displays to explain the relationship between Squaxin Island Tribal members and the seven inlets of South Puget Sound.

You can have the opportunity to walk in their shoes by participating in cultural activities and special events.

With a small, yet highly professional staff, the Museum Library and Research Center generally present exhibits, lectures, films, tours, traditional skills workshops and educational outreach programs for students in local schools. The Museum Library and Research Center also feature a public library. And a specialty gift shop specializing in Squaxin Island and other Native American art and literature.

Tenino Quarry Pool

The Tenino Quarry Pool: A priceless gem of Thurston County. The Quarry Pool was originally a working Sandstone Quarry in the late 1800s. It was run by The Hercules Sandstone Company. Before, its products were used to construct many of Tenino’s buildings after a substantial fire in the early 20th century as well as notable buildings along the West Coast. July-Aug open Thurs-Sun from noon-5 p.m. However, the pool may be closed on days with inclement weather.

Tenino Stone Carvers

Visit this collective of craftsmen and artists at “The Shed” located in the heart of Tenino. Gifts and carving classes available!

Tenino Yellow Bicycle Project

The Yellow Bikes are a free bike share program that provides carefree fun to Thurston Bountiful Byway visitors. It allows you to ride the bike trail and enjoy nature, farms and fresh air.

Tunawerth Creamery

Family owned Dairy and Creamery who strives to make exceptional cheeses from the Netherlands (Gouda, Komijne, Kruidnagel Etc.) and milk products (low pasteurized milk, Yogurt, and soft cheeses)

Wet Science Center

The WET Science Center in Olympia, WA is a fun, hands-on place to learn all about water – one of the most precious resources. Featuring interactive exhibits, weekend family activities, tours, and environmental presentations. Open Mon-Sat from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and it’s free! The WET Science Center has a variety of games and activities for all ages, although most are designed for older children ages 10 and up, as well as adults. An optional scavenger hunt guides visitors through eight stations of exploration and earns you a prize.

Exhibits and interactive video games include information about:

• The natural and built water cycle, water use, and water conservation.

• Wastewater treatment, including the role of bacteria in the nitrogen removal process.

• What not to flush or put down the drain.

• Production and use of Class A Reclaimed Water.

• Career opportunities at LOTT Clean Water Alliance.

• Stewardship of the Puget Sound.

The WET Science Center is located at 500 Adams Street NE, in downtown Olympia, just two blocks northeast of the Olympia transit station.

Wolf Haven Internation

The mission of Wolf Haven International is to “Conserve and protect wolves and their habitat.” Wolf Haven accomplishes this mission through providing sanctuary, education, and conservation. We are a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that has worked for wolf conservation since 1982.

We rescue and provide sanctuary for displaced, captive-born wolves. Also, we offer a variety of educational programs, promote wolf restoration in historic ranges and work to protect our remaining wild wolves and their habitat. Wolf Haven has rescued and provided a lifetime home to more than 200 wolves. You can schedule a guided walking visit of the sanctuary by visiting our website, wolfhaven.org or calling 360.264.4695 x220.

Yelm Cinemas

Reserved seats, recliners, all the new releases and special showings of cult classics–Yelm Cinema is the perfect date night or girls night out. So come on down and bring your friends!

Yelm Farmers Market

The Yelm Farmers Market was established in 2012 as a program of the Yelm Co-operative in response to the growing demand by farmers and consumers in the Yelm, WA, area for a market to support local grower. And to make farm fresh foods more widely available to the community. The market is held from June through October on the beautiful Nisqually Springs Farm, just outside the Yelm city boundaries.

Farmers, producers, and artisans come together in joyful harmony offering the freshest and most loved-into-life creations available! This season there shall be weekly children’s activities, face-painting, and local musicians to add to the delightful experience of shopping at Yelm Farmers Market. However, as the market is located on a farm, no pets are allowed.

Yelm Prairie Lanes

Prairie lanes offer our community and surrounding communities with a comfortable, affordable, exciting environment! Everything from an open bowl, sanctioned leagues, and short fun prize league. Fundraisers, reunions, parties for any occasion. We have a diverse menu and a full-service bar! Come in—let us be your first choice for family outings, date and night just good old fashioned fun!!

21 and up Fun

Olympia offers a great environment for adult fun as well. Downtown Olympia is riddled with a hole in the wall bars with great food and drinks.

The best bars and restaurants include the following:

Fish Tail Brewery

From its home in beautiful Olympia, Washington, Fish Brewing Company has been hand-crafting ales of Northwest proportions since 1993. Formerly founded by Crayne and Mary Horton and a few dozen local investors, Fish began operations humbly. Eventually, with a 15-barrel brewhouse, two 15-barrel fermenters, and one dairy tank, they brewed for their neighbors up and down Puget Sound. Growing steadily since Fish is now an award-winning craft brewer with distribution throughout the great Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Today, three distinct brands make their home under Fish Brewing’s roof. In the beginning, there were Fish Tale Ales, English-style beers born in the brewpub on Jefferson Street. It wasn’t long before brewery outgrew its cradle, though. So in 1996, they moved brewing operations across Jefferson Street and into the historic and spacious Skoog Building.

Three Magnets Brewing Co.

Three Magnets Brewing Company is a microbrewery in Downtown Olympia, featuring an all ages dining area and a 21+ bar.

Top Rung Brewing

The Top Rung Brewing is a 10 barrel production brewery with tasting room at the brewery. It is a destination for craft beer drinkers to enjoy their beverage and view a production brewery facility. Their tasting room is family friendly. And while they only offer snacks, Top Rung partners with local food vendors and food trucks as well as allows patrons. This is to bring in their own food of their choice or have it delivered. Top Rung Brewing brings quality craft beer to Lacey.

The brewery is located in the Hawks Prairie area of Lacey. So when not brewing and tending to their home/family responsibilities, they are also full-time firefighters (IAFF L3825) in the Olympia area. Their friendship and love of brewing consequently culminated into this dream turned the reality of opening a craft brewery. The brewery is also available to host parties, events, and work functions. They can accommodate over 40 people in the back room, which can be reserved anytime. They can also accommodate 75 people in the taproom when it is closed to the public.

Well 80

Well 80 is a new brewery and brewpub built on the site of one of Olympia, Washington’s famous Artesian wells. In fact, this delicious well water is used in brewing our line of tasty craft beers. An all-ages restaurant, Well 80 serves pizza, burgers, and sandwiches, all with a unique twist. Come in today and experience Well 80!

The Brotherhood

Mellow bar & lounge with dance parties, weekly movie nights, billiards & more in chill surrounds.

4th Ave Tav

Featuring 24 beers on tap, plus darts, games, and daily food specials.

King Solomon’s Reef

In a slim, vintage space, this diner & bar plates locavore comfort food & veggie choices till late.

The Society Night Club

The society offers a safe dance club environment circulating a ton of great acts. Music mostly consists of electronic music, techno, and trap music.

The Spar

New American pub grub & craft beers in a historic building with a bohemian vibe & shuffleboard.

Tipsy Piano Bar

Tipsy Piano Bar is a new bar in downtown Olympia, WA! A baby grand piano is the centerpiece of our dimly-lit easy-going New Orleans inspired cocktail bar. So stop in for happy hour from 2-6 PM daily, or check out our weekly piano schedule to enjoy live music most nights of the week!

Our savory southern comfort inspired menu, tasty desserts, and a wide selection of signature cocktails make a night at Tipsy a night you won’t soon forget!

Matt Collins

Matt Collins is the founder of All Ready Moving & Storage. Founded in 2003 Matt created All Ready Moving & Storage as he saw a desperate need for better customer service in the moving industry. All Ready Moving & Storage provides local & long-distance moving packing & storage options. All Ready Moving & Storage has preformed over 10,000 moves since the company was founded.

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