Local Travel: Half-day in Olympia

What to do when time is short

By RangerKen on November 16, 2009

Looking for something to do, but you only have half a day to spend — and it needs to be close to Fort Lewis or McChord Air Force Base?  Consider these great ideas from the folks at the Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater Visitors and Convention Bureau.

Uniquely Capital (Easy Walking)

Washington State Legislative Building

The Washington State Capitol stands on a hill overlooking the southern tip of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, for which the city was named. It is designed in a mixture of Roman, Greek and neo Classical. Guided tours are offered seven days a week on the hour.   Free. www.ga.wa.gov/visitor .

Dash Shuttle

We go everywhere you need to go in Downtown Olympia, from the Capitol Campus to the Farmers Market, cafes and shops to area offices and parks. – FREE. www.intercitytransit.com .

Farmers Market

Enjoy locally produced fruits and vegetables, baked goods, arts & crafts, and more along with live music and entertainment! April-October. Thursday-Sunday, 10am-3pm. November-December, Saturday and Sunday. 10am-3pm

Downtown Olympia Art and Shopping

multiple art galleries, theaters, and public downtown theaters. Cell phone guided public are tour. Hundreds of shops ranging, children’s, antiques, jewelry, home décor, and sports.

Batdorf and Bronson Coffee Roasters

Free coffee tasting - learn about the history of coffee and sample some of the best blends around. www.dancinggoats.com.