Olympia is the state capital of Washington, a city with a stunning location at the southernmost tip of Puget Sound. The area of Olympia has been a significant site for thousands of years and rich in history since originally inhabited by the Coastal Salish tribes, including the Nisqually and Squaxin. The area was a hub for shellfish gathering and salmon harvesting, before European exploration began in 1792 with Peter Puget’s visit, followed by the U.S. Exploring Expedition in 1841. The first American settlers, Levi Lathrop Smith and Edmund Sylvester, arrived in the 1840s, and by 1850, the town was officially named Olympia, inspired by the majestic Olympic Mountains visible to the north.

Olympia became the capital of Washington in 1889, and it has grown and prospered since then, adding landmarks over the years. The city’s most iconic building is the Washington State Capitol. It was completed in 1928, and the great Neoclassical structure features a stunning dome, which is one of the tallest in the world. The Capitol grounds are equally impressive, with beautifully landscaped gardens and somber war memorials that offer a peaceful retreat for visitors.

Not far from the present Washington State Capitol, you can see the former capitol, Old Capitol Building, constructed in 1892. It is also known as The Castle due to its grand and imposing architecture, which has similarities to a castle. The Old Capitol Building served as the state capitol of Washington until the current Capitol was completed. Today, it houses the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction and stands as a testament to Olympia’s rich architectural heritage.

The Old Capitol Building is in the central part of Olympia, also known as the Downtown Historic District. The area covers 17 blocks in downtown Olympia, and many of the houses were built between 1911 and 1930. The atmosphere is special in this part of the city, and besides the former capitol building, there are other well-known buildings. The Capitol Theater was built in 1924 and designed by architect Joseph Wohleb. Another historic place is the old Hotel Olympian from 1918, located just north of Sylvester Park.

For a glimpse into the daily life of Olympia’s early settlers, you can visit the Bigelow House Museum northeast of downtown. Built in the 1850s, this Carpenter Gothic-style home is one of the oldest residences in the city and it offers a fascinating look at 19th-century life. There are preserved furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of the Bigelow family and their contributions to the community in the house museum.

With the location at Puget Sound, you might explore the waterfront of Olympia as well. The centrally placed Percival Landing Park is a great place to start. This waterfront park stretches along the eastern shore of Budd Inlet and features a boardwalk, public art, and interesting views of the marina. The Olympia Farmers Market is close by, and you can continue to Swantown Marina and the great to the sound a nature to the north.