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Urban Spelunker: Olympia's South Capitol Neighborhood

Photos by Jackie Fender

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The Legislative Building, on the grounds of the State Capitol in Olympia, is reason enough to visit the area. It's a majestic historical sight to behold day or night. And though downtown Olympia is the more walkable of business districts, the Capitol district homes several hot spots among the serene, affluent residential neighborhood. If you want to partake in an urban adventure full of history, nature and good eats, the area surrounding our state capitol is a good place to dive in.

[Mama Mia!]
Vic's Pizzeria boasts "best pizza in Olympia" with its gourmet-styled pizza pies with fun monikers like "Maynard," "Teddy" and "The Westside Locker." Pesto, roasted garlic and clams are often paired with more traditional flavors for good eatin' for all lovers of the pizza pie. Bonus, it has some fabulous Northwest craft brews to help wash it all down. 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon to 7 p.m. Sunday, 233 Division St. NW, Olympia, 360.943.8044

[Produce Pickers]
If you're looking for fresh produce and locally sourced goods like honey, sauces or jams and wish to pair them with wines and beers from the great Northwest, then Spud's Produce Market is the place to be. It's an indoor farmers market where one can score greens and nature's candy. Bonus: Olympic Coffee Roasters Company is next door. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 2828 Capitol Blvd., Olympia, 360.915.9763

[Trails, Tots and Turbulent Waters]
When the weather allows, Tumwater Historical Park offers a fabulous outdoor journey. From the big toy jungle gym, picnic areas and scenic riverside trails, spelunkers can breathe a breath of fresh air and relax. Bonus, there are some lovely views of the Old Olympia Brewing Building, which can leave those with a vivid imagination day dreaming.  777 Simmons Road SW, Tumwater, 360.754.4160

[History Hounds]
Located among residential streets just blocks from the Legislative Building inside the Lord Mansion, you'll discover the State Capital Museum. Though only open on Saturdays or by appointment only, the State Capital Museum is a treasure trove of local history; there's no need to reminisce about your grade-school field trip days. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 211 21st Ave. SW, Olympia, 360.753.2580

[Carnivorous Consumers]
Western Meats is essentially a big town butcher. Its inventory includes all meaty goodness from beef, pork and chicken to lamb and buffalo as well as house-made sausages. Whether you choose custom cut or ready-to-cook, the staff is experienced and knowledgeable, and may even have a recipe idea or two for your slab of meat. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, 4101 Capitol Blvd., Olympia, 360.357.6601.

Still Hungry: Falls Terrace, and coming soon Lucky's Lunchbox

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