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Washington State Capitol Campus Olympia WA

4.7
·656 reviews·Olympia, United States

A majestic Beaux-Arts architectural marvel with stunning grounds, offering a glimpse into Washington's history and civic pride.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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5th Avenue Bridge & Dam - Image 1

Washington State Capitol Campus Olympia WA

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A majestic Beaux-Arts architectural marvel with stunning grounds, offering a glimpse into Washington's history and civic pride.

4.7
(656 reviews)

"The architecture inspires awe, and the peaceful grounds offer a quiet moment of reflection."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Take the Free Tour

Highly recommended! Guides are knowledgeable and make learning about the history and architecture engaging.

🅿️ Parking Fees Apply

Remember to pay for parking at the kiosks on the grounds. It's usually around $2 per hour.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Legislative Building

Legislative Building

Capitol Campus

Marvel at the stunning architecture, Tiffany lamps, and marble from around the world. Free tours offer deep dives into its history.

Winged Victory Monument

Winged Victory Monument

Capitol Campus

A poignant bronze statue honoring WWI soldiers, designed by Alfonso Victor Lewis. A solemn tribute on the beautiful grounds.

Temple of Justice

Temple of Justice

Capitol Campus

Home to the Washington Supreme Court, this building boasts impressive architecture and a 'secret library' for those in the know.

Capitol Grounds and Gardens

Capitol Grounds and Gardens

Capitol Campus

Wander through beautifully maintained gardens, admire old-growth trees, and discover various war memorials scattered across the expansive campus.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds

To experience the Washington State Capitol Campus with fewer crowds, aim for weekday mornings outside of legislative sessions. Weekends can be busier with local events and families exploring the grounds.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking is available at kiosks ($2/hour) on the Capitol grounds. While many buildings are handicap accessible, finding public restrooms can sometimes be a challenge. Plan your route accordingly.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Spring bloom
Why
Gardens are vibrant and picturesque
Crowd
Medium
When
During public events
Why
Experience civic life firsthand
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A man broke into the Washington State Capitol’s Legislative Building on October 5, causing extensive damage, including arson and destruction of historic artifacts. Security footage shows him forcibly entering and causing damage in multiple rooms. Authorities believe he may have been experiencing a mental health crisis. He is now in custody and facing multiple charges. #WashingtonStateCapitol #Vand...
@brutamerica
25.9K likes • 398.2K views

🎯 Take the Free Tour

Highly recommended! Guides are knowledgeable and make learning about the history and architecture engaging. TikTokReddit

🅿️ Parking Fees Apply

Remember to pay for parking at the kiosks on the grounds. It's usually around $2 per hour. Reddit

A very un-comprehensive list of stuff i like in olympia #olympia #olympiawa
@spencer_sunboy
17K likes • 122.8K views
A quick photo stop for #Wheezy at the #capitol in #Olympia, the #capital city of #Washington. #penguin #Disney #Pixar #DisneyPixar #ToyStory #travel #architecture #statecapital
wheezyworld
261 likes • 0 views

🌸 Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the beautiful flower gardens and mature trees. Perfect for a peaceful stroll. InstagramReddit

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The Legislative Building's interior is stunning with Tiffany lamps and global marble. Reddit

Almost missed Day 1! #inktober #inktober2016 #olysketcher #urbansketchers #olympiagram #olympiawashington #olympiawa #thurstontalk #uskseattle #wastatecapitol #wastatecapitolbuilding #legislativebuilding
olysketcher
79 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Take the Free Tour

Highly recommended! Guides are knowledgeable and make learning about the history and architecture engaging. TikTokReddit

🅿️ Parking Fees Apply

Remember to pay for parking at the kiosks on the grounds. It's usually around $2 per hour. Reddit

🌸 Explore the Gardens

Don't miss the beautiful flower gardens and mature trees. Perfect for a peaceful stroll. InstagramReddit

🏛️ Admire the Architecture

The Legislative Building's interior is stunning with Tiffany lamps and global marble. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

The campus offers many picturesque spots, especially during bloom season. Instagram+1

🛍️ Don't Forget the Gift Shop

A great place to find unique souvenirs related to Washington State. Reddit+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(656 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Washington State Capitol Campus for its stunning architecture, beautiful grounds, and the value of free guided tours. The historical significance and civic pride evoked by the site are frequently mentioned positives. Some minor drawbacks include the difficulty in finding public restrooms and the paid parking.

"Thoroughly enjoyed our guided tour. It was about an hour long. Our guide was knowledgeable, kind, and efficient. There is lots to learn here! I learned and saw more on the guided tour than I would have seen on my own. The grounds and the building are beautiful amd well-kept. Don't forget to exit through the gift shop."

Rebekah Lockwood

"We walked around the capitol grounds on a Friday morning. You must pay at a kiosk money or credit card to park ($2 an hour). The grounds are beautiful. Make sure you walk through the flower garden. The war memorials are respectful. If there are public bathrooms available, we never could find them. Every building seemed to be handicap accessible. There were beautiful old growth trees."

Laurie Steinke

"We attended a graduation. It was such an amazing experience to be a part of. The capital is gorgeous. If you can’t go up the stairs, go around the building and you can access the lower level. They have an elevator. The architecture is so beautiful inside and out. Every inch of the capital is so beautiful. Don’t forget to stop at the gift shop. They have a lot of neat souvenirs to bring home."

Priscilla

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Well-kept grounds
Informative tours

What People Dislike

Hard to find restrooms
Paid parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Capitol Campus is located in Olympia, WA. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on the grounds. Public transportation options may vary, so check local transit schedules. TikTok

Yes, parking is available on the Capitol grounds. You'll need to pay at a kiosk, typically around $2 per hour, using cash or credit card. Reddit

While driving is the most convenient, you can reach Olympia via bus services. Once in Olympia, you might be able to walk or take a local bus to the campus, depending on your starting point. TikTok

Major routes like I-5 will lead you to Olympia. Follow signs for the Capitol Campus once you're in the city. GPS navigation is highly recommended. TikTok

Information on specific park-and-ride lots near the Capitol Campus can be found through local Olympia transit resources. It's advisable to check their website for the most up-to-date details. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general access to the Capitol Campus grounds and most buildings is free. However, some special events might require tickets. TikTok

Visiting hours can vary by building and day. The Legislative Building typically has public access during business hours on weekdays, with extended hours or weekend access for special events. It's best to check the official Washington State Capitol website for current hours. TikTok

Yes, free guided tours of the Legislative Building are highly recommended. They offer valuable insights into the history and architecture. Reddit+1

Guided tours typically last about an hour, providing a comprehensive overview without taking up too much of your day. Reddit

Yes, you can generally enter public areas of the Legislative Building and other accessible buildings on the campus during their operating hours, even if you're not attending a scheduled event. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Key highlights include the Legislative Building with its stunning interior, the Winged Victory Monument, the Temple of Justice, and the beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens. InstagramReddit

Yes, most buildings on the campus are designed to be handicap accessible, with elevators and ramps available. Reddit

Public restrooms are available within the main buildings, particularly the Legislative Building. However, finding them can sometimes be tricky, so ask staff if needed. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in public areas for personal use, but check for any specific restrictions within certain rooms or during special events. Instagram

The campus hosts a variety of events, including legislative sessions, public ceremonies, protests, and cultural gatherings. Check the campus events calendar for details. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Food & Dining

While there isn't extensive dining on the immediate campus, there is a gift shop that might offer small snacks. For full meals, you'll find numerous options in downtown Olympia, a short distance away. Reddit

Picnicking on the grounds is generally permitted, making it a great option to bring your own lunch and enjoy the scenery. Reddit

Downtown Olympia offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries catering to various tastes and budgets, just a short walk or drive from the campus. TikTok

The gift shop within the Legislative Building is often mentioned as a place to grab a small item, but it's not a full-service cafe. Reddit

Food truck availability can vary. It's best to check local Olympia food truck schedules or directories for their current locations. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Legislative Building's grand facade, the blooming gardens in spring, the Winged Victory Monument, and panoramic views from the grounds offer excellent photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in sensitive government areas like the Capitol Campus due to security and privacy concerns. Always check official regulations before flying. TikTok

Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light for exterior shots. Midday can be good for interior architectural details. Instagram

While personal photography is usually allowed, avoid intrusive setups or blocking public access. Professional photography or filming may require permits. Instagram

Yes, the intricate Tiffany lamps are a major highlight and are generally fine to photograph for personal use. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Washington State Capitol Campus offers a spacious and engaging environment for families. The expansive grounds are perfect for kids to run around and explore, with beautiful gardens and open spaces. Instagram Consider a guided tour of the Legislative Building, which can be made interesting for children by focusing on the grand architecture and unique features like the Tiffany lamps. Reddit Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as dining options on the immediate campus are limited, but picnicking on the grounds is a great option. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by history and architecture, the Washington State Capitol Campus is a treasure trove. The Legislative Building is a prime example of Beaux-Arts design, featuring imported marble and stunning Tiffany lamps. Reddit Take advantage of the free guided tours to gain in-depth knowledge about the building's construction, historical significance, and the stories behind its various art installations and memorials, such as the Winged Victory Monument. TikTokInstagram

📸 Photographers

The Washington State Capitol Campus provides a wealth of photographic opportunities. The Legislative Building offers dramatic exterior shots, especially during the golden hours, and its interior is a visual feast with its marble and Tiffany lamps. Instagram+1 The surrounding gardens, particularly when in bloom, present beautiful scenes for nature and landscape photography. Instagram Don't forget to capture the Winged Victory Monument and other sculptural elements that add character to the campus. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Washington's History

The Washington State Capitol Campus in Olympia is more than just a government seat; it's a historical landmark. The campus's centerpiece, the Legislative Building, was dedicated in 1928 and is renowned for its Beaux-Arts architecture. It features a stunning 287-foot dome and interiors adorned with marble from Italy and Alaska, and intricate Tiffany lamps. The Temple of Justice, home to the Washington Supreme Court, is another architectural gem on the campus. TikTok

Beyond the main buildings, the campus is dotted with memorials and sculptures that tell the story of Washington State. The Winged Victory Monument, dedicated in 1938, honors soldiers who died in World War I. Exploring these elements provides a tangible connection to the state's past and its civic heritage. Instagram

Visitors often remark on the sense of history and civic pride that permeates the campus. The guided tours are particularly praised for bringing these stories to life, making the visit both educational and inspiring. Reddit+1

Navigating the Capitol Campus

The Washington State Capitol Campus is a sprawling and beautiful area, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The grounds are meticulously maintained, featuring vibrant gardens, mature trees, and various monuments. It's a popular spot for walking, especially during pleasant weather. InstagramReddit

When it comes to parking, visitors should be aware that it's metered. Kiosks are available on the grounds, accepting both cash and credit cards, with rates typically around $2 per hour. Planning your visit during off-peak hours can help secure a convenient spot. Reddit

Accessibility is a key feature, with most buildings designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities. While restrooms are available within the buildings, some visitors note that locating them can require asking for directions. Reddit The campus is also a site for various public events, from official ceremonies to demonstrations, offering a dynamic glimpse into civic life. TikTokReddit

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details

The Legislative Building is a masterpiece of architecture, drawing admiration from visitors. Its grand dome and the extensive use of marble from around the world create an opulent atmosphere. The Tiffany lamps inside are particularly noteworthy, casting a warm and intricate glow. Reddit

Many visitors are captivated by the detailed craftsmanship throughout the campus. The Winged Victory Monument is a powerful bronze sculpture, while the Temple of Justice showcases impressive design elements. The campus itself is a canvas, with artists like olysketcher capturing its beauty in sketches and watercolors. Instagram+2

These architectural and artistic elements contribute significantly to the overall visitor experience, making the Capitol Campus a destination that appeals to those interested in history, art, and design. The visual splendor is frequently highlighted in reviews and social media posts. Instagram

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