Olympia, WA Attractions

Bigelow House Museum is noted for being Olympia's oldest home, built in the mid to late 1850s, although the exact year of completion is the source of some debate. The house contains a large collection of original furnishings and artifacts, offering insight into life in Olympia during the 1800s.

The Hands On Childrens Museum features six galleries with numerous interactive displays. Children are encouraged to play creatively while learning information in a variety of settings. Unlike some children's museums, the Hands on Childrens Museum is designed for a variety of age groups, including displays for parents with infants.

Located just east of Olympia the town of Lacey is a college community. Some of the main attractions in Lacey include the Lacey Museum, and the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.

The Lacey Museum contains artifacts related to the history of the Lacey area, including furniture and household items, as well as a photograph collection.

Southwest of Olympia is the little town of Lebam. There is relatively little of interest in the town but if you are spending some time here stop by the Forks Creek Salmon Hatchery to learn about the facility and the program.

The Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve, near Olympia, is a great place for walking or hiking, particularly in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom on the rolling hills.

Monarch Sculpture Park features over 140 local and international artists. Highlights include the Hedge Maze, Sound Garden, Fantasy Garden, Japanese Garden, Butterfly Garden and Cedar's Nature Walk. There are over 100 sculptures throughout the park

The Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge protects migratory birds that use the area for nesting and habitat. Both fresh and salt water marshes, along with grasslands and forest make up the wildlife refuge.

Shelton is located east of Tacoma on the Olympic Peninsula. Of interest in the town is the Mason County Historical Society Museum.

The Washington State Capital Museum and Outreach Center in Olympia features permanent and temporary displays on the city and on Native American history. The State Capital Museum building is also used to house a number of societies, primarily those with an interest in heritage and history.