Nicknamed “O-Town,” Olympia is widely recognized for its contributions to the world of music and art. The downtown area which overlooks Port Angeles is designated as a National Historic District and consists of six contributing buildings built in 1940-41 plus several more buildings that act as the administrative headquarters for Olympic National Park. Olympia is a city fueled by government activity and its Capital Building is recognized as one of the biggest free standing masonry domes in the entire world. On the grounds surrounding the building are numerous statues and fountains and the Hall of Justice. Yes, it is named the Hall of Justice! There’s even a Temple of Justice too. The State Capital Museum and Outreach Center is housed in the former Lord Mansion, seven blocks south of the capital campus in Olympia. The museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history and culture of Washington and it features two floors of exhibits that focus on regional Native American history.
Enjoy the outdoors during Olympia’s mild winters and warm summers. Start by taking a scenic Puget Sound stroll on the long pier that leads to Nisqually Reach Nature Center. There you’ll find plenty of wildlife (especially birds) from bald eagles to blue Herron to Canadian geese. Olympia also has evergreen forests and saltwater beaches. Enjoy the beautiful old growth forests, deep blue lake and campgrounds of Millersylvania State Park or the beaches of Narrows Park, Saltar’s Point or SunnysidePark. Whether you’re enjoying the city’s independent art and music scene, its more than 40 state parks, its Pacific Northwest cuisine or the largest farmers market in the state, you’ll have accommodations ready to fill all of your travel needs when you stay at one of our Choice Hotels in Olympia, WA. Book a room online now!