Olympia WA

Olympia – Washington’s charming capital city, where evergreen forests meet sparkling waterfront views. Nestled at the southern tip of Puget Sound, Olympia blends small-town warmth with big natural beauty. It’s a place where you can stroll along the marina, explore cozy local shops, and enjoy a thriving arts and music scene—all in the same afternoon. Whether you're drawn to scenic hikes, rich history, or farm-fresh food, Olympia offers a laid-back lifestyle that feels both refreshing and inspiring.

• Population: ~55,000
• Weather: Mild, marine climate (40–80°F); cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers.
• Places To Visit: Washington State Capitol, Percival Landing Park, Olympia Farmers Market, Priest Point Park, Hands On Children’s Museum.
• Top Activities: Kayaking on Puget Sound, hiking in Capitol State Forest, exploring local art galleries, biking scenic trails, enjoying live music downtown.
• Famous Food: Fresh oysters and seafood, artisan coffee, farm-to-table dishes, locally brewed craft beer, and pastries from neighborhood bakeries.

Olympia, WA, the state capital, offers a diverse array of career opportunities driven by government, education, healthcare, and agriculture. Below are some of the most promising jobs you can find in Olympia.

Olympia, WA, is a hidden gem packed with fantastic spots where students can unwind, explore, and enjoy life beyond textbooks and lectures. Whether you’re craving nature, history, or local vibes, Olympia has something to make your free time memorable.

Percival Landing Waterfront Park – Nestled by the waterfront, this park is perfect for leisurely walks with stunning views of the marina and Mount Rainier. It's a great spot to chill with friends or have a picnic while enjoying the calming sounds of the water.

Capitol State Forest – For those who love the great outdoors, Capitol State Forest offers trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Exploring lush green forests can be a refreshing break from academic stress.

Batdorf & Bronson Coffeehouse – Olympia’s coffee culture is vibrant, and Batdorf & Bronson is a must-visit for caffeine aficionados. Grab a latte, enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, and maybe get a little studying done in a relaxed environment.

Olympia Farmers Market – Dive into the local scene with this bustling market. Fresh produce, arts and crafts, and delicious food vendors make it the perfect place to spend a weekend morning discovering local treasures and yummy treats.

Washington Center for the Performing Arts – If you love shows and performances, this is the place to be. From concerts to theater productions, this venue hosts a variety of events that cater to all tastes, offering a cultural escape from your usual routine.

The Olympia Center Skate Park – For the adventurous and active, this skate park offers ramps, rails, and good company. It's a fantastic space to skate, hang out with friends, and soak in some sunshine.

So, whether you're looking for a peaceful afternoon, a nature escape, or a lively community event, Olympia has more than enough options to help you relax and have fun. Get out there and make the most of your student life!

Olympia, the vibrant capital city of Washington, is a hub for public service, arts, and outdoor recreation. Its educational institutions are shaped by the city’s creative spirit and commitment to community, preparing students for success in a variety of fields.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Olympia, WA

The Evergreen State College – Known for its interdisciplinary approach and unique curriculum, Evergreen encourages students to personalize their education. The scenic campus fosters creativity, social justice, and environmental stewardship.

South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) – A leading community college offering associate degrees, professional certifications, and transfer opportunities. SPSCC is recognized for its accessible pathways and supportive environment.

Saint Martin’s University (Public/Private Partnership) – While officially private, Saint Martin's maintains several strong public partnerships and offers ROTC and other programs accessible to the public. Its connection to the Olympic region makes it notable in Olympia’s educational ecosystem.

Charter College Lacey Campus – While technically located in nearby Lacey, this campus serves the Olympia area with career-focused programs in health care, business, and technology, giving public access to in-demand careers.

University of Washington Tacoma (Olympia Programs) – UW Tacoma occasionally offers satellite and partnership programs in Olympia, expanding opportunities for public university learning within the city limits.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Olympia, WA

Saint Martin’s University – Officially based in neighboring Lacey, Saint Martin’s is the region’s leading private Catholic university. Known for its welcoming environment and strong programs in engineering, education, business, and nursing.

Northwest Christian High School/Academy (Post-secondary) – While primarily a high school, its early college and dual-credit programs offer private college-level coursework to Olympia-area students.

Evergreen Christian School (ECPS) Higher Ed Pathways – Students seeking faith-based, private higher education often start at ECPS before moving on to private universities in Washington and beyond through established transfer agreements.

Brandman University (Part of University of Massachusetts Global, Lacey Campus) – Specializing in adult education, Brandman offers flexible online and hybrid programs in business, education, and health. The Lacey campus serves Olympia-area learners looking for private college options.

Corban University (Extension and Online Options) – Although Corban’s main campus is in Salem, OR, it offers a variety of remote and extension programs accessible to Olympia residents interested in a private, Christian-based education.

Olympia, the charming capital of Washington State, offers a great selection of public and private high schools that are committed to nurturing future-ready individuals. These institutions focus on providing quality education, fostering leadership skills, and encouraging personal growth. Whether your child is aiming for college admissions or seeks to hone specific talents, Olympia's schools offer excellent options.

Top Public High Schools in Olympia

• Olympia High School – With a tradition of academic excellence, Olympia High School offers a wide range of AP courses and a robust extracurricular program. Known for its commitment to student growth and community engagement, it strives to prepare students for the future.
• Capital High School – This prominent institution is well-regarded for its diverse curriculum and strong athletics program. The school emphasizes a balanced educational approach that suits various learner needs.
• Avanti High School – Providing a unique, individualized learning experience, Avanti High School focuses on alternative education methods that cater to students seeking a personalized educational journey.
• Olympia Regional Learning Academy – Known for its innovative learning environment, this school combines traditional classroom experiences with online education to offer flexible learning paths.
• North Thurston High School – As part of the North Thurston Public Schools district, this school values excellence and diversity, offering students a wide array of academic and extracurricular opportunities.

Top Private High Schools in Olympia

• Nova School – A small but mighty institution, Nova School is appreciated for its emphasis on humanities and experiential learning. It challenges students to think critically and develop strong moral and ethical values.
• Olympia Waldorf School – This school blends academics with arts and practical skills, fostering holistic development. Its curriculum is designed to inspire creativity and independent thinking.
• St. Michael Catholic School – This private Catholic institution provides a values-based education with a strong focus on academic excellence and spiritual growth, making it a well-rounded choice for families seeking faith-based education.
• Evergreen Christian School – Known for its supportive community, this school offers a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to excel academically and develop a strong Christian character.
• Community Christian Academy – With a commitment to small class sizes and individual attention, Community Christian Academy values the personal growth of each student and offers a broad curriculum grounded in Christian principles.

Olympia, Washington may be the state capital, but it is a smaller city with a close-knit, community feel. Unlike major metropolitan areas, Olympia does not have teams in the NFL, NBA, MLB, or NHL. However, that doesn’t mean sports fans are left out. The city has its own growing sports scene, and it sits just about an hour south of Seattle—a major hub for professional sports. Here’s a look at the professional and semi-professional sports presence connected to Olympia and the surrounding region.

Soccer – Oly Town FC (Arena Soccer & Indoor Soccer)

• Oly Town FC – Based right in Olympia, Oly Town FC is one of the city’s most notable teams. Founded in 2014, the club competes in arena and indoor soccer leagues, including the Major Arena Soccer League 2 (MASL2). The team plays at the Evergreen State College Pavilion and has built a passionate local fan base. While not part of MLS, Oly Town FC gives fans a fast-paced, high-scoring version of the game and keeps professional-level soccer alive in the heart of Olympia.

Baseball – Nearby Tacoma Rainiers (Triple-A MiLB)

• Tacoma Rainiers – Just 30–40 minutes north of Olympia, the Rainiers are a Triple-A Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Seattle Mariners. They play at Cheney Stadium in Tacoma. While Olympia does not have its own pro baseball team, many local fans support the Rainiers. Watching future MLB stars develop here is always exciting and affordable.

Football – Seattle Seahawks (NFL)

• Seattle Seahawks – About an hour north in Seattle, the Seahawks are one of the most popular teams in the Pacific Northwest. They won Super Bowl XLVIII (2014) and have made multiple playoff appearances. With legendary players like Russell Wilson, Marshawn Lynch, and Richard Sherman in recent history, the Seahawks have a strong following in Olympia. Game days often feel like a statewide event.

Baseball – Seattle Mariners (MLB)

• Seattle Mariners – The Mariners are Washington State’s only MLB team. While they have yet to win a World Series, they have had iconic stars like Ken Griffey Jr., Ichiro Suzuki, and Félix Hernández. Many Olympia residents make the trip to T-Mobile Park to catch a game during the season.

Soccer – Seattle Sounders FC (MLS)

• Seattle Sounders FC – One of Major League Soccer’s most successful clubs, the Sounders have won two MLS Cups (2016, 2019) and the CONCACAF Champions League (2022). With strong support across Washington, including Olympia, the Sounders have built a proud soccer culture in the region.

Hockey – Seattle Kraken (NHL)

• Seattle Kraken – Founded in 2021, the Kraken are the NHL’s newest Pacific Northwest franchise. Though still young, the team has quickly gained fans throughout the state. Olympia hockey fans often travel to Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena to see the action live.

Women’s Professional Sports – Seattle Storm (WNBA)

• Seattle Storm – One of the most successful teams in the WNBA, the Storm have won four championships (2004, 2010, 2018, 2020). Legends like Sue Bird and Breanna Stewart have led the franchise. The team enjoys strong support from fans across Washington, including many in Olympia.

While Olympia itself does not host major league franchises, its location gives residents easy access to some of the Pacific Northwest’s top professional teams. Add in local clubs like Oly Town FC, strong youth athletics, and community sports events, and it’s clear that Olympia embraces sports in its own energetic way. Whether you prefer cheering in a packed NFL stadium or enjoying an intimate arena soccer match close to home, Olympia offers the best of both worlds.

Olympia, Washington may be a smaller state capital, but it is packed with personality, history, and natural beauty. Nestled at the southern tip of Puget Sound, this charming city offers more surprises than you might expect. Here are 10 fun facts about Olympia that make it truly special:

1. It’s the Capital of Washington – Olympia has been the state capital since 1853, even before Washington officially became a state in 1889. The stunning Capitol building sits on a hill overlooking Budd Inlet.
2. No Income Tax State – While this applies to all of Washington, it’s a fun perk for Olympia residents: there’s no state income tax, which makes living here even more appealing.
3. Birthplace of Grunge Legends – Olympia played a key role in the Pacific Northwest music scene. Bands like Bikini Kill and Beat Happening helped shape the indie and punk movements of the 1980s and ’90s.
4. The Capitol Dome is Massive – The Washington State Capitol features one of the largest masonry domes in North America. It’s so impressive that you can spot it from miles away.
5. Surrounded by Water – Olympia sits right on Puget Sound, giving residents easy access to boating, kayaking, and some of the freshest seafood in the country.
6. Home to Evergreen State College – The city is home to The Evergreen State College, known for its progressive education style and beautiful forested campus.
7. Rainy Reputation – Yes, it’s true! Olympia sees about 50 inches of rain per year. But locals embrace it, and the rain keeps the surrounding forests lush and green year-round.
8. Big on Oysters – Olympia oysters are famous. In fact, the city was once a major hub for oyster harvesting in the 19th century, and the small native Olympia oyster still carries the city’s name.
9. Close to Mount Rainier – On a clear day, you can see the breathtaking Mount Rainier towering in the distance. It’s only about a two-hour drive away, making epic mountain adventures easy.
10. Artistic and Quirky Vibes – From colorful murals to independent bookstores and cozy coffee shops, Olympia has a creative, small-town charm that makes visitors feel right at home.

Olympia may not be as large as Seattle, but its mix of history, music culture, natural beauty, and laid-back charm makes it one of Washington’s hidden gems. Whether you’re visiting the Capitol, exploring the waterfront, or enjoying local seafood, there’s always something interesting to discover.