Olympia
Olympia is the capital of Washington.
A Puget Sound port named for the nearby Olympic Mountains.
What makes the capitol special
The Washington State Capitol was finished in 1928. It features one of the tallest masonry (stone) domes in North America, rising 287 feet high. Inside, a massive 10,000-pound Tiffany chandelier hangs from the center. Outside, the grounds feature the Tivoli Fountain, which was inspired by a famous fountain in Rome.
Three places to visit
- Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge – Walk on boardwalks over water and wetlands to see many different types of birds near the river delta.
- Olympia Farmers Market – Visit busy stalls selling local fruits, vegetables, handmade foods, and crafts near the waterfront. (Note: It is open seasonally, usually from April to October).
- Percival Landing Boardwalk – Take a walk along this scenic path by the water to enjoy views of Budd Inlet, boats, and public art.
How the city got its name
Olympia was named after the Olympic Mountains, which can be seen from the city. The name reflects both the natural beauty of the area and its connection to the legends of Greek mythology.
Why this city became the capital
Olympia became the capital in 1853 when the Washington Territory was first created. It was chosen because it is located on Puget Sound, making it easy to reach by boat and a good center for trade. It remained the capital when Washington officially became a state in 1889.
From Celine Carlson’s 50 State Capitals: A Field Guide by a Girl Who Visited Them All, based on her visits to all 50 state capitals. About the author · Sources and research notes.