Seattle's Child

Your guide to a kid-friendly city

Visit Oympia state capital

Visit Olympia: Tour the state capitol

Learn about Washington state history and the legislative process then hit the town

Itā€™s January and the state legislature is back in session. What better time to visit the city that governs the Evergreen State? Less than an hour and a half away in good traffic, Olympia is where you will find the state capitol building with its ornate marble rotunda and regal campus. Opt for a morning guided tour so the kids can learn more about these buildings and their architectural history and influence.Ā 

Wagnerā€™s European Bakery & Cafe has been a popular lunch spot for all ages for several decades and is located just off campus. A stroll around all or part of the 2-mile Capitol Lake path, stopping at the lakeā€™s interpretive center and playground along the way, is a great way to digest.

From there, head to the popular Hands on Childrenā€™s Museum to play the rest of the afternoon away. With more than 150 exhibits and a space for outdoor play, children will have plenty of opportunity to explore and use their imaginations.

Finally, take a guided tour with any of the docents from the Puget Sound Estuarium. From beach to bird walks, these knowledgeable experts will share a wealth of information about Puget Sound, its waterways and the marine ecosystem.

More at Seattle’s Child:

“5 wonderful spots for a winter high tea”

About the Author

Jasmin Thankachen

Jasmin is the Associate Publisher at Seattle's Child and an Eastside mom of two boys. She enjoys parenting with lots of love and laughter. Co-Founder of PopUp StoryWalk, she also loves children's picture books, essay writing, and community stories.