This article collects the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Olympia for couples based on major travel, blogs, reviews, and social media sites.
There are numerous romantic activities available in Olympia. The city’s biggest attractions are listed below, along with ideas for romantic dates. These activities, which range from fine dining to sightseeing throughout the city, are free to attend.
Imagine surprising your loved one with a last-minute trip to Olympia?
Imagine what it was like when you two first met.
Bring those emotions to the forefront as you read this article.
Here are 30+ romantic things to do in Olympia with your partner.
| I like to travel but also be smart with money. Below are the places where I start my planning with. – ✈️Flights, Hotel, Tours – I seek out Flash Sales to guide my planning 👉 Find good deals – 🛡️Travel Insurance – I like to go to the source like Travelex instead of paying a broker 👉Here – 🚗Car Rental – Rental will save you lots of headaches. Search, compare, and save first up to 30-50% on Discover Cars. 👉 Save Now Links from affiliated brands I like. |
Table of Contents
Outdoor / Adventurous Date Ideas in Olympia To Have Fun
Find something fresh at the Olympia Farmers Market
- Cost: Starts from $5 and above (shopping)
- Address: 700 Capitol Way N, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 352-9096
Take a stroll along the Percival Landing boardwalk in Olympia, and stop at this renowned farmers market. When you arrive, enter the sizable pavilion lined with restricted items and produce.
After looking through the variety, it’s evident that this farmer’s market, which has been operating for more than 40 years, is among the greatest in the Pacific Northwest.
One of the fun things about the market is how accessible it is. The Olympia Farmers Market is a weekly four-day event that runs from Thursday through Sunday from April through October.
The market is open every year, with different hours for each season.
Take in the waters at Percival Landing
- Address: 217 Thurston Ave NW, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 753-8380
You can find a 3.4-acre public beachfront park called Percival Landing on Budd Inlet at the southern tip of Puget Sound.
This lovely public area is bordered by a wooden boardwalk, an excellent link between the Historic District and the Olympia Farmers Market. Percival Landing also provides a picturesque location to view the waters that contribute to the city’s definition.
Several eateries surround Percival Landing with patios that are popular for lunch and dinner with a view.
Budd Bay Café is a local favorite among the eating options, with menus for all three meals of the day.
The renowned weekend brunch at Budd Bay Café regularly results in a line outside the door.
Experience birding at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
- Cost: $3/person (ticketing)
- Address: 100 Brown Farm Rd NE, Olympia, WA 98516
- Phone: (360) 753-9467
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is home to migrating birds and a vast environment of protected freshwater and saltwater marshes, grasslands, and woodlands.
It is a portion of the larger Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, which extends to the west to encompass the Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge.
Among the 200 bird species that come each year, it’s not uncommon to see the great blue heron, American bittern, and peregrine falcon.
The refuge advises visitors to arrive no later than two hours before high tide for the best chances to see birds.
At the refuge, it’s also possible to see pronghorn antelope, box turtles, and migrating orca whales.
Hike the scenic Mima Mounds
- Cost: $10/day (ticketing)
- Address: 12315 Waddell Creek Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512
- Phone: (360) 577-2025
It’s unclear what caused these strange, bubble-shaped mounds southwest of Olympia.
Giant gophers, earthquakes, ice, and alien activity are suggested solutions to this problem.
Speculating about how this intriguing and beautiful place came to be is half the fun of traveling there.
Regardless of the outcome, the Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve is a fantastic location for strolling or hiking. This is because the rolling hills are covered in wildflowers.
Everyone may enjoy the distinctive and inviting nature at this National Natural Landmark thanks to a half-mile, completely accessible trail.
You might also like these articles
- 30+ Romantic Getaways in Alabama
- 30+ Romantic Getaways in Alaska
- 25+ Romantic Getaways in Arizona
- 30+ Romantic Getaways In Arkansas
- 30+ Romantic Getaways in California
Plan an adventure to Mount Rainier National Park
- Cost: $15/person (ticketing)
- Address: Olympia, WA
- Phone: (360) 569-2211
The most prominent mountain in the Pacific Northwest and the park’s namesake, Mount Rainier, is located about 65 miles southeast of Olympia.
More than two million people visit the national park each year to hike, climb, and camp amidst the alpine beauty of this glacier-streaked mountain, making it one of the most seen in the nation.
Mount Rainier National Park’s most popular hiking routes lead to glaciers, waterfalls, meadows, and icy rivers, all of which offer stunning views of Mount Rainier. Sunrise and Paradise are two well-known and well-named places to visit.
The park has four auto-campgrounds, but many more are in the surrounding forests.
The park is also well known for extensive backpacking endeavors, like trips on the Wonderland Trail that offer a more primitive overnight experience.
Enjoy camping in Olympic National Park
- Cost: $15/person (ticketing)
- Address: 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362
- Phone: (360) 565-3130
The breathtaking landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula are reachable from Olympia with a short commute. They include high alpine peaks, lush rainforests, and a rough coastline accented by sea stacks.
Ruby Beach, Hurricane Ridge, and the Hoh Rain Forest are popular tourist destinations in Olympic National Park. The Sol Duc Hot Springs, the Quinault Rain Forest, and Shi Shi Beach on the northern coast are other picturesque locations.
Olympic offers a virtually limitless variety of activities, from lovely campgrounds to fantastic hiking paths.
Olympia is an excellent starting point for excursions into the peninsula’s intricate and appealing environs.
Explore the serene Evergreen Valley Lavender Farm
- Cost: $8/person (ticketing)
- Address: 9733 Evergreen Valley Rd SE, Olympia, WA 98513
- Phone: (360) 754-2002
The tranquil, lovely four-acre Evergreen Valley Lavender Farm in Olympia is located in the picturesque Evergreen Valley.
This tiny boutique shop specializes in lavender and its products, including hydrosols, bath products, fresh and dried flowers, essential oils, and a range of arts and crafts.
The farm’s many benches and lounging spots make it a welcoming place to read a book and a popular location for community gatherings and classes.
Eleven varieties of lavender are grown and sold on the farm, and guests are welcome to watch the oil being distilled there.
Horse Ride through the Capitol State Forest
- Cost: $30 – $99 (horse riding)
- Address: Olympia, WA 98512
- Phone: (360) 825-1631
Capitol State Forest offers visitors a wide range of outdoor pursuits. The 100,000-acre Capitol State Forest produces timber and is a popular recreation area.
Horseback riding at Mima Falls, off-road vehicle riding at Rock Candy, mountain biking on a vast network of trails, and hiking on forested routes are all options for visitors.
You might also like these articles
- 30+ Romantic Getaways in Colorado
- 30+ Romantic Getaways in Connecticut
- 30+ Romantic Getaways in Delaware
- 30+ Romantic Getaways in Florida
- 30+ Romantic Getaways In Georgia
Beat the heat at Heritage Park Fountain
Heritage Park Fountain – Credits: Pixabay
- Cost: $23/person (ticketing)
- Address: 330 5th Ave SW, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 753-8380
The Heritage Park Fountain is a must-see for summertime visitors to Olympia’s downtown.
The Heritage Park Fountains also called “Olympia’s swimming pool,” offer free entertainment during the sweltering summer months.
This park, in the center of Olympia’s downtown, is situated between Capitol Lake Park and Percival Landing and is right next to the Oyster House.
The fountain runs until nine o’clock at night, and lights surround the water jets so visitors can take in an illuminated water display.
This fountain offers several ways to cool yourself and is nearby the well-known ice cream shops, Traditions, or Grandpa’s.
Music, Art, Historic, Educational, Cultural Date Ideas in Olympia
Take a moment to learn about history by touring the Washington State Capitol Building
- Cost: Free
- Address: 416 Sid Snyder Ave SW, Olympia, WA 98504
- Phone: (360) 902-8880
“ It was a family visit for us. The whole area offers great views of Olympia state government buildings and beautiful surroundings. There is plenty of material for a tourist to know about Washington state and its history. Must visit place. ” – Pradeep Kaushal
The Washington Legislative Building, which cost over $7 million to complete and towers 287 feet above the Capitol Campus, was built in 1928.
The towering white dome, the tallest brick dome in North America and visible from every part of the city, is magnificent.
It’s also enjoyable to stroll about the Capitol’s historic site, which has a variety of monuments, water features, and gardens.
Visit the Tivoli Fountain as soon as possible, especially if you have a camera.
The Governor’s Mansion on the Capitol campus is the oldest structure nearby. It has housed governors and their families for more than a century if you want a detailed look at history.
Catch a show at the Capitol Theater
- Cost: $11person (ticketing)
- Address: 206 5th Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 754-6670
Since 1924, Olympia Film Society (OFS), a nonprofit organization, has owned and operated the historic Capitol Theater, which has been a source of entertainment for the neighborhood.
Today, the Capitol Theater features a variety of performances, such as live music, independent films, and an open gallery for regional artists to exhibit their work.
The theater has developed to offer various streaming choices for viewing at home.
The ten-day Olympia Film Festival is a popular event yearly because it offers discussion panels, guest speakers, and a wide selection of films.
Watch the annual Olympic Air Show at Olympic Flight Museum
- Cost: $7/person (ticketing)
- Address: 7637 Old Hwy 99 SE, Tumwater, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 705-3925
“ Really nice airshow, got to be up close with most of the aircraft, great MC covering the event, nice exhibits. Well stocked beer garden as well, and food trucks on the field. ” – Bryan T
This airport’s regional airport is home to the 1998-founded aviation museum. Heritage aircraft, helicopters, and artifacts are all housed in the unique museum hangar. It’s a popular destination for aviation fans.
Fighter jets from World War II, Cobra helicopters, and military aircraft from the Soviet Air Force are notable aircraft on show.
Additionally, the museum conducts the yearly Olympic Air Show in August, during which some of its historical aircraft fly.
Collectors’ shows and equipment swaps are two other exceptional occasions.
Travel back to the 1800s at the Bigelow House Museum
- Cost: $5/person (ticketing)
- Address: 918 Glass Ave NE, Olympia, WA 98506
- Phone: N/A
The oldest house in Olympia is the Bigelow House Museum. It was constructed for the powerful Bigelow family in the middle the to late 1850s (although the exact year of completion is the source of some debate).
The house has a sizable collection of antique furniture that provides insight into daily living in the area in the 1800s.
Take one of the daily guided tours if you want to see the Bigelow House Museum in its entirety. These 45-minute narrations offer information about the Bigelow family’s legacy and the city’s past.
Admire the performances at Washington Center for the Performing Arts
- Cost: $100 – $200 (events/tickets)
- Address: 512 Washington St SE, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 753-8585
“ My favorite event is the silent film series. They are accompanied by Andy Crows beautiful Wurlitzer Organ. I’ve also attended the comedy acts of Brian Regan and Gabriel Rutledge and laughed the whole time. ” – Nybe O
Time to get in the groove!
One of the fantastic and exciting things you can do on your date night is to visit this place!
The Washington Center for Performing Arts, situated on the South Puget Sound, offers Olympia an abundance of local talent, live performances, comedy events, movie screenings, and more.
This is the place to be if you’re looking for a bit of culture.
To find out what’s coming up, check out the events calendar!
Browse for knowledge at WET Science Center
- Cost: Free (ticketing)
- Address: 500 Adams St NE, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 664-2333
A lively and engaging environment, the WET Science Center in downtown Olympia educates visitors about water, a valuable resource, through activities and games.
The center offers cool and interesting things on weekends, tours of water facilities, interactive exhibits, and environmental talks on water-related issues.
The Puget Sound and its stewardship are the themes covered via exhibits and video games.
Other topics include the water cycle, water consumption, and conservation, wastewater treatment, why some things shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet, reclaimed water, and wastewater treatment.
Get in touch with marine life at South Sound Estuarium
- Cost: $4/person (ticketing)
- Address: 309 State Ave NE, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 915-0773
Marine life enthusiasts visiting the Olympia area will not want to miss a visit to the South Sound Estuarium.
This one-of-a-kind building is a marine teaching center with two aquariums filled with marine life from South Puget Sound, informative exhibits, hands-on activities, and a film room with various marine-related topics.
The Estuarium is accessible to the public from 10 am to 3 pm on weekends.
The South Sound Estuary Association also provides various educational opportunities for visitors, such as the “Pier Peer” program, which allows for nighttime underwater observations of marine species in south Puget Sound.
Pay tribute to military heroes at the Medal of Honor Memorial
- Cost: Free
- Address: Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 902-8881
The Medal of Honor Monument, situated on the eastern side of Capitol Campus, is a must-see attraction for those interested in military history.
In addition to much other war and military memorials, the Medal of Honor Memorial honors Washington residents who have received the Congressional Medal of Honor. This is the nation’s highest military honor.
The memorial is a full-scale replica of the national monument in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.
Indoor / Relaxing / Foodies Date Ideas in Olympia
Sip, swirl, and savor the different flavors of wine at Medicine Creek Winery
- Cost: $15 – $100 (wine tasting)
- Address: 947 Old Pacific Hwy SE, Olympia, WA 98513
- Phone: (360) 701-6284
“ I have been to many a winery in a barn setting and the inside of this building is not at all what one would expect seeing the outside. The gorgeous interior is welcoming as are the people.” – Kimberly T
You should consider visiting Medicine Creek Winery on the Old Pacific Highway for a weekend treat. You are exposed to excellent wine and a bit of history when you see this property.
The tasting room at Medicine Creek, a small vineyard in the Nisqually Valley, is open on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5 pm and is housed in a barn that once housed a stagecoach similar to the 1865 “Wells Fargo” model.
The winemaking facility, barrel room, and dancing floor are close to the tasting room.
Taste the fresh cider at Lattin’s Country Cider Mill & Farm
- Cost: $3 – $20 (cider)
- Address: 9402 Rich Rd SE, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 491-7328
“ Wonderful experience for kids..the store had wonderful pastries and sweets. The petting zoo was nice as the animals were fun and their containment areas were nicely kept. Definitely worth a stop to get the kids out of the car to run through the maze. The bathrooms were clean and stocked. ” – Carissa G
Lattin’s Country Cider Mill and Farm is a small, family-run operation that has been around since 1956.
They collaborate with other Washington farmers to deliver fresh fruits to Olympia clients, including apples, berries, peaches, plums, and pears.
They use crisp, fresh apples from their own or other nearby farms to produce high-quality cider.
They produce roughly 4000 gallons of cider every week during the season and supply it to retailers all over the West Coast.
They also bake delicious treats; the neighborhood loves their doughnuts and apple fritters.
Soothe your body at a spa
- Cost: $85 – $300 (spa and massage packages)
- Address: 541 McPhee Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98502
- Phone: (360) 867-0725
Unbelievably, a visit to the spa for a relaxing day is an everyday activity in Olympia.
A soothing massage package is available at The Massage Place so that you may reenergize.
People frequently visit this place because of its top-notch services and treatments, which is why it has been named the premier spa in Olympia.
Visit them for facials, luxurious pedicures, relaxing massages, and more.
Relish seafood with a view at Anthony’s HomePort Olympia
- Cost: $25 – $350 (food)
- Address: 704 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 357-9700
“ From the bread to the appetizers (salad and clam chowder) the food was the best we’re eaten in a long time (and the pandemic doesn’t count). Fresh, perfectly prepared. Even ordered in-season strawberries for dessert. ” – Susan T
Near the Olympia Farmers Market and the I-5 corridor, on Budd Inlet, is where you’ll find Anthony’s, HomePort Olympia.
The restaurant offers stunning views of the Port Plaza and the nearby nautical activity.
Anthony’s HomePort Olympia is distinctive to the Olympia community and reflects the flavor and personality of the neighborhood.
Every aspect of the dining experience, from the service to the caliber of our fresh Northwest seafood, is planned to produce a memorable meal in unrivaled surroundings.
Active and Youthful Date Ideas in Olympia
Dive into the waters at Columbus Park
- Cost: $8 – $100 (ticket + activities)
- Address: 5700 Black Lake Blvd SW #62, Olympia, WA 98512
- Phone: (360) 786-9460
“ Excellent camping location. Private park, lake front. Swimming available, boating, RV camping, or tent camping area. I chose the tent camp, which was very motorcycle friendly. Running water and power at each site. Showers are available in a clean structure, a short hike away. Priced reasonably. ” – Paul H
You must locate a swimming area if you intend to spend some of the summers in Olympia, Washington.
If you don’t like driving an hour to the beach, consider visiting this nearby lake!
Columbus Park has a sizable swimming pool, fishing piers, picnic areas, volleyball courts, and more.
Stretch your legs at Marathon Park
- Cost: $75/person (ticketing)
- Address: 1011 Deschutes Pkwy SW, Olympia, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 407-2200
Marathon Park is a 2.25-acre waterfront park constructed in 1970 and was given its name in honor of the historic hosting of the US Olympic time trials held there in 1984.
The park is situated at the intersection of two lakeside hiking routes, just a short stroll from the main Capitol Campus and downtown Olympia.
The one-mile trail around Capitol Lake with the vistas of the Capitol Building and Puget Sound will appeal to runners, walkers, and birdwatchers.
This picturesque location is a favorite for picnickers, sunbathers, and people looking for a tranquil place to stroll their pets.
Spend a fun-filled evening at Westside Lanes
- Cost: $14 – $52 (ticketing + games)
- Address: 2200 Garfield Ave NW Ste 1, Olympia, WA 98502
- Phone: (360) 943-2400
Are you bored of being at home and want some fun? You’re lucky because this is one of your fun date night ideas.
Bowling is very exciting. What’s also remarkable is the variety of games available. It’s fun to explore the different games!
With their refreshing menu, you can also have some refreshments after the game in this center!
Nature-Inspired Date Ideas in Olympia
Calm yourself at Capitol Lake
- Cost: Free
- Address: Olympia, WA
- Phone: N/A
A 260-acre lake known as Capitol Lake is situated beneath the Washington State Capitol. There is still writing being done on this body of water’s history.
This artificial lake is at the confluence of the Deschutes River and Puget Sound. The area was an active estuary with extensive tidelands before the 5th Avenue dam was built in 1950.
Today, the Washington State Capitol Campus benefits from the freshwater lake’s aesthetic attraction.
Capitol Lake Park, on the northern end of the water, also provides an aesthetically pleasing public space with lush lawns and a lovely walking route.
Walkers, runners, cyclists, and parents pushing strollers enjoy using the 3.5-mile lakeside trail. This paved path also links other well-known parks, like Heritage Park and Marathon Park.
Enjoy the landscaped scenery with a picnic at Tumwater Falls Park
- Cost: Free
- Address: 110 Deschutes Way SW, Tumwater, WA 98501
- Phone: (360) 943-2550
“ This park was family friendly. Wide paths, lotsa walkers and families with kids. The falls at the beginning are very large and loud. The historical explanations were very well done and well placed. Wish we would’ve had more time. ” – Patrick Leah
Tumwater Falls Park is on the southern shore of Capitol Lake.
Anyone searching for a planted environment to enjoy may visit this picturesque location.
A half-mile hiking path takes visitors past the mighty Deschutes River’s cascading waterfalls.
The park’s additional 15 acres offer plenty of room to take in the surrounding beauty while having a picnic, going for a walk, or simply keeping an eye on the passing of the seasons.
Go on a wooded respite at Millersylvania State Park
- Cost: $12 – $40 (ticketing)
- Address: 12245 Tilley Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512
- Phone: (360) 753-1519
“ Enjoyed a wonderful afternoon walking the trails. The best part was having a glass of wine in the charming beer garden in the middle of the park. ” – Bradley B
Millersylvania State Park offers a lovely forested retreat for camping, boating, hiking, and cabin rentals a few miles south of Olympia.
Within this park’s 800+ acres are 3,300 feet of freshwater beachfront.
The park is scenic and historic, with several trails winding through old-growth fir and cedar trees.
The Miller family donated the land to the state in 1921, which is when it all started.
The buildings in the park were primarily constructed by hand by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935. There are various campgrounds and camping cabins for tents, trailers, and RVs.
Sink into the soothing beauty of Priest Point Park
- Cost: Free
- Address: 2600 East Bay Drive Northeast, Olympia, WA 98506
- Phone: (360) 753-8380
“ Many easy hiking trails. We enjoyed this area. We were lucky and were able to see an owl hanging out in the trees. There were several locals who recommended this area and it didn’t disappoint. ” – Julie S
The 300+ acres of Priest Point Park provide tourists a picturesque location for a picnic or hike by fusing the natural beauty of Washington State with its recorded history.
The park’s history dates back to 1848, and it is known that the site was significant for trade and interactions with several local indigenous groups.
In 1905, the entire region was given to the city of Olympia. Walking through the park’s ravines, cliffs, and streams is enjoyable for visitors.
The park offers a playground with a basketball court, picnic areas with tables and shelters, and various nature walks.
Show your love for nature at Woodard Bay Conservation Area
- Cost: $10/person (day pass)
- Address: Olympia, WA 98506
- Phone: (360) 902-1000
A Woodard Bay Conservation Area trip will appeal to both hikers and animal enthusiasts.
Three hiking routes with different lengths, levels of difficulty, and settings may be found in this 870-acre park only a few minutes outside Olympia.
A paved road serves as one path, a forested loop trail does another, and the final trail is described as a barrier-free walk with views of Woodard Bay.
In addition to offering a habitat for shorebirds and songbirds, harbor seals, river otters, bald eagles, a sizable bat maternity colony, and one of the most prominent heron rookeries in the state, Woodard Bay is a popular destination for birders and other nature lovers.
Connect with nature at McLane Creek Nature Trail
- Cost: Free
- Address: McLane Creek Nature Trail, Olympia, WA 98512
- Phone: N/A
The McLane Creek Nature Route is a lovely, short trail in the Capitol State Forest. The well-equipped boardwalk route allows visitors to interact peacefully with the local flora.
Those who love seeing birds and freshwater animals may particularly like this walk.
Visitors can stroll close to a beaver pond, take in the beauty of ferns and moss-draped trees, and cross a salmon-filled creek in a little more than a mile-long loop.
The trail has undergone several enhancements, making it a viable choice for visitors seeking an outdoor adventure.
Take in the outstanding views at West Bay Park
- Cost: Free
- Address: 700 W Bay Dr NW, Olympia, WA 98502
- Phone: (360) 753-8380
West Bay Park is a waterfront park and walkway, one of Olympia’s newest parks.
Visitors can now enjoy breathtaking views of the State Capitol, the ship canal, and the Olympic peaks from this stunning location.
On the west coast of Budd Inlet, this quaint park was created on the site of reclaimed abandoned warehouses and a shuttered lumber mill.
It has been established and maintained almost entirely by volunteers.
This stunning park offers a tranquil setting where you can relax and take in the shoreline, observe seals and ship movement in the bay, and walk your dog if you choose.
There are portable restrooms in the parking lot.
Best Things to Do in Olympia, Washington
Final Thoughts
Washington’s Olympia is a stunning city. The city’s attractions include museums, historic sites, romantic hotels, state parks, hiking trails, golf courses, and renowned restaurants.
The city of Olympia will keep you entertained whether you plan to stay a while or are simply passing through.
With so many options, it can be challenging to decide what to do, but hopefully, this list will help get you started.
We hope you will enjoy all the places on this list.
Have a beautiful time in Olympia!
Thanks for reading!
| I like to travel but also be smart with money. Below are the places where I start my planning with. – ✈️Flights, Hotel, Tours – I seek out Flash Sales to guide my planning 👉 Find good deals – 🛡️Travel Insurance – I like to go to the source like Travelex instead of paying a broker 👉Here – 🚗Car Rental – Rental will save you lots of headaches. Search, compare, and save first up to 30-50% on Discover Cars. 👉 Save Now Links from affiliated brands I like. |
