Olympia City Guide

Food options include Pacific Northwest seafood, craft beers, and international cuisines like Asian, Mexican, and Italian. Vegetarian and vegan choices are good. Late-night food options are mainly fast food or bars.

Nightlife is centered on downtown bars, breweries, and live music. It’s modest but active.

Strong coffee scene with local roasters and independent shops focused on quality and ethics.

Tipping is expected in restaurants and for services, usually 15-20%. Smaller tips at coffee shops are common but optional.

Buy SIMs at T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon stores. eSIMs are available for some phones. Prepaid SIMs usually don't need ID.

Streets are generally clean, especially downtown and in neighborhoods. Recycling and waste pickup are reliable.

Some pharmacies and minimarts open late, but food options at night are mostly fast food. Urgent care centers may have extended hours.

Stores like Safeway, Fred Meyer, and QFC carry most items. The Olympia Farmers Market offers fresh local produce. Stores open early, close late, and mostly run on Sundays too.

Most businesses accept cards, but cash is still used for small purchases.

ATMs are common at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Using out-of-network ATMs may cost $2.50 to $5.00 per withdrawal.

Olympia School District offers public education. Private schools include Olympia Waldorf School and St. Michael Parish School. Instruction is primarily in English.

Community is small but growing. Meetups happen at coworking spaces and cafes.

Parks like Priest Point, Capitol Lake, and Watershed Park offer green, shaded walking and running spots.

Running routes include Capitol Lake Loop and trails in Priest Point Park. Running is safe with groups and occasional races.

Several gyms offer 24/7 access and group classes.

Public tennis courts in parks and schools. Booking varies, equipment not usually rented.

Padel courts are not common in Olympia.

Several yoga studios offer various styles with drop-in classes, all in English.

Dojo options include Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Karate, and Taekwondo, with English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like White Pass and Crystal Mountain are 2-3 hours drive. Season runs late November to April with varying snow quality.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are common on Capitol Lake and Puget Sound. Rentals easy in summer.

Surf spots are on the coast a couple hours away. Water is cold, wetsuits needed year-round. Best seasons are fall and winter.

Diving in Puget Sound is possible but cold. Good seasons are spring and fall. Certification and gear rentals are available nearby.

Providence St. Peter Hospital has English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are common and often have drive-thrus. Both public and private care are good.

Tap water meets all quality standards and is safe to drink.

The city has many playgrounds like Priest Point Park and Capitol Lake. Family cafes and baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include the Hands On Children's Museum and WET Science Center.

Olympia is accepting and progressive with many safe spaces and community events. Legal protections are strong.

Many pet-friendly spots and services. Dog parks and trails are common. Vet clinics are easy to find.