As part of Washington's capital city, West Olympia sits on the west side of Budd Bay and Capitol Lake. It includes the South Westside and Northwest Olympia neighborhoods and is home to plenty of green space including family parks and waterfront trails. 

How to get there

This pocket of Thurston County is primarily accessible from Highway 101. Olympia's Historic District is just over the Fifth Avenue Bridge and Tumwater sits to the south. For an area map, click here.

Where to stay

Overlooking Capitol Lake, Hotel RL by Red Lion is a comfortable retreat with 193 guest rooms. Moderately priced king, two queen and suites with separate living rooms are available. Amenities include a lake-view restaurant, lounge, coffee bar, and gym along with a seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub. For longer stays, try Extended Stay America Olympia-Tumwater. Off Highway 101, this hotel offers studio rooms with kitchenettes and suites with separate seating areas and pull-out sofas. A laundry facility and complimentary grab-and-go breakfast are available. Pets are welcome at both hotels.

Where to eat

Start your day with a seriously good cup of coffee at Olympia Coffee Roasting II, an award-winning local coffee house with loads of charm and friendly baristas. For a great sandwich, try Wally's Sandwich Bar. This family owned and operated gourmet sandwich shop serves up fresh sandwiches, pitas and wraps with locally sourced ingredients. Eat at Vics Pizzeria for what locals call the "best pizza on the Westside." If you're looking for a fun night out with great pub grub, visit The Westide Tavern. This over-21 restaurant serves burgers and sandwiches in a laid-back setting with billiards and outdoor patio seating. Customers rave about the "excellent food, great beer selection and cool atmosphere." For a romantic night out, dine at La Petite Maison. This quaint French restaurant is known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and excellent wine selection.

What to do

Capital Mall is home to more than 120 stores and restaurants including Macy's, REI, Old Navy, Eddie Bauer, Olive Garden and Red Robin. It also has a children's play area. The place for movies is Century Olympia Theaters. Westside movie-goers like its "comfy" reclining seats and large selection of snacks and drinks. May through October, pick up goods from local farmers, artisans and producers at the West Olympia Farmers Market.  

Where to enjoy nature

Hugging the west side of Budd Inlet near the mouth of the Deschutes River is West Bay Park. This beachfront park offers 17 acres of shoreline, walking trails, picnic areas and public art. Walk along the beach or get out on the water on a paddleboard. Rentals are available from West Bay Paddleboards. Families like Decatur Woods Park, a 6.2-acre city park with a playground, nature trails and picnic areas. Another city green space is Yauger Park, which has a playground, skate park, athletic fields and horseshoe pits. Walkers and joggers head to Marathon Park, a 2.25-acre park on Capitol Lake. Pick up the Capitol Lake Trail here and take it all the way around the lake. Another favorite neighborhood hike is Garfield Nature Trail, a secluded trail that winds through a lush five-acre ravine. Locals call it an "amazing little place to enjoy nature without going out of the city." In the fall, the Fifth Avenue Bridge is a great place to watch the salmon run.

Living in West Olympia

West Olympia neighborhoods offer easy access to downtown Olympia and other cities in the South Sound. Home-buyers find a varied selection of classic homes with character. If you're considering moving to West Olympia, the real estate agents at Burger Professionals can show you homes and help you through the purchasing process. 

More

For a guide to Olympia Neighborhoods including West Olympia, click here. Visit the City of Olympia's website to learn more about Washington's capital city.