A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Olympia: The Hidden Gem of the Pacific Northwest

Introduction

Olympia, the capital of the state of Washington in the United States, is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located at the southern tip of Puget Bay, Olympia is known for its stunning landscape, thriving art scene, and commitment to sustainability and ecological living.

Natural Attractions

Olympia is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Capitol Lake State Park, with its freshwater lake, hiking trails, and picnic areas, is a popular place for outdoor activities. The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is another must-see for nature lovers, with its variety of birds and wildlife, as well as its stunning views of Mount Rainier.

Art and Culture

Olympia has a thriving art and cultural scene. The Pacific Northwest Art Museum houses an impressive collection of art from the region, while the Washington State Arts Center offers a variety of shows and events. The city is also known for its music, with a vibrant live music scene and the popular Olympia Music Festival each summer.

History and Heritage

Olympia's history can be explored at a variety of historic sites and museums. The Washington State Capitol, with its impressive architecture and gardens, is a popular place to visit. The Thurston County Historical Society Museum offers exhibits on local history, while the Vancouver Military Reserve National Historic Park provides insight into the region's military history.

Dining and Shopping

Olympia offers a variety of dining and shopping options. The Olympia Farmers Market is a popular place to buy local produce, while the city center offers a variety of unique restaurants and shops. The city is also known for its craft beer, with several local breweries offering tours and tastings.

Conclusion

Whether you're interested in nature, art, history, or dining, Olympia has something for everyone. With its natural beauty, vibrant cultural scene, and commitment to sustainability, Olympia is truly a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest.

Olympia Gastronomic Products

Olympia Oysters

Olympia is famous for its oysters, which are considered some of the best in the world. Olympia oysters are small, sweet, and have a distinctive nutty flavor. They can be enjoyed raw, grilled, steamed, or in a variety of gourmet dishes.
Craft Beer

Olympia is home to several craft breweries that produce a wide variety of beers. From IPAs and stouts to lagers and ales, there is a beer for every palate. Many of these breweries offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the beer-making process and sample different styles.
Washington Apples

Washington is the largest producer of apples in the United States and Olympia is no exception. The apples from this region are crisp, juicy, and full of flavor. They are used in a variety of dishes, from pies and pastries to sauces and ciders.
Local Goat Cheese

Olympia boasts several goat farms that produce high-quality cheeses. These cheeses have a mild and creamy flavor that is perfect for spreading on bread, adding to salads, or enjoying on its own. Many of these farms offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the cheese-making process and sample different varieties.

Olympia's Notable Gastronomic Spots

Olympia, the capital of Washington, is a place with a rich culinary culture. From high-end restaurants to cozy taverns, Olympia offers a wide variety of options to enjoy its cuisine. Below, we present some of the most notable:

Waterstreet Cafe

Located in the heart of Olympia, Waterstreet Cafe is famous for its French and Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine. Here you can taste dishes such as grilled salmon, duck confit, and a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The elegant atmosphere and attentive service make this place a perfect choice for a special dinner.

Old School Pizzeria

If you're looking for a casual and delicious meal, Old School Pizzeria is an excellent choice. This establishment is known for its New York-style pizzas, with a thin and crispy crust and a wide variety of fresh ingredients. In addition to pizzas, they also offer a selection of salads, subs, and craft beers.

Fish Tale Brew Pub

For beer lovers, Fish Tale Brew Pub is a must-visit. This pub and brewery offers a wide selection of craft beers, along with a menu of classic pub dishes like burgers, fish and chips, and nachos. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes this place a great spot to spend an evening with friends.

Swing Wine Bar

For a more sophisticated culinary experience, Swing Wine Bar offers a selection of high-quality wines and gourmet dishes. Here you can enjoy a glass of wine while tasting dishes such as mushroom risotto, beef steak, and grilled lamb. The intimate and elegant atmosphere of this place makes it a perfect choice for a romantic dinner.

Sporting Activities in Olympia, United States

Hiking

Olympia offers a variety of trails for all skill levels. You can explore Capitol State Park, Priest Point Park, or the Deschutes Basin trail.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Olympia, with a variety of fish species available in the area. You can fish in Capitol Lake, the Deschutes River, or Puget Sound.

Kayaking

Puget Sound and the numerous lakes and rivers in the area offer opportunities for kayaking. You can rent a kayak and explore the natural beauty of Olympia from the water.

Cycling

Olympia has a network of bike trails that allow you to explore the city and its surroundings. You can rent a bike and tour the Deschutes Basin Heritage Trail or the West Coast Heritage Trail.

Golf

If you enjoy golf, Olympia has several high-quality golf courses. You can play a round at the Capitol Golf Course or at the Indian Summer Golf Course.

Nearby Places to Olympia

If you are in Olympia and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Seattle

Seattle, known for its iconic Space Needle, offers a vibrant culinary scene with fresh seafood, artisanal coffee shops, and farmers' markets, along with stunning water views, mountains, and a rich musical and artistic culture.

Tacoma

Tacoma, Washington, is a gem of the Pacific Northwest, known for its vibrant culinary scene with fresh seafood and craft beers, stunning water views, rich industrial history, and a growing art and culture community.