Washington State Capitol Campus Olympia WA
A majestic Beaux-Arts architectural marvel with stunning grounds, offering a glimpse into Washington's history and civic pride.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Washington State Capitol Campus Olympia WA
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic Beaux-Arts architectural marvel with stunning grounds, offering a glimpse into Washington's history and civic pride.
"The architecture inspires awe, and the peaceful grounds offer a quiet moment of reflection."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Capitol Campus
A poignant bronze statue honoring WWI soldiers, designed by Alfonso Victor Lewis. A solemn tribute on the beautiful grounds.
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 Campus
Wander through beautifully maintained gardens, admire old-growth trees, and discover various war memorials scattered across the expansive campus.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Parking and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🌸 Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful flower gardens and mature trees. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The Legislative Building's interior is stunning with Tiffany lamps and global marble.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
🌸 Explore the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful flower gardens and mature trees. Perfect for a peaceful stroll.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
The Legislative Building's interior is stunning with Tiffany lamps and global marble.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The campus offers many picturesque spots, especially during bloom season.
🛍️ Don't Forget the Gift Shop
A great place to find unique souvenirs related to Washington State.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to the Capitol Campus grounds and most buildings is free. However, some special events might require tickets.
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.
Yes, free guided tours of the Legislative Building are highly recommended. They offer valuable insights into the history and architecture.
Guided tours typically last about an hour, providing a comprehensive overview without taking up too much of your day.
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.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
Yes, most buildings on the campus are designed to be handicap accessible, with elevators and ramps available.
Public restrooms are available within the main buildings, particularly the Legislative Building. However, finding them can sometimes be tricky, so ask staff if needed.
Photography is generally allowed in public areas for personal use, but check for any specific restrictions within certain rooms or during special events.
The campus hosts a variety of events, including legislative sessions, public ceremonies, protests, and cultural gatherings. Check the campus events calendar for details.
🍽️ 🛍️ 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.
Picnicking on the grounds is generally permitted, making it a great option to bring your own lunch and enjoy the scenery.
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.
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.
Food truck availability can vary. It's best to check local Olympia food truck schedules or directories for their current locations.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light for exterior shots. Midday can be good for interior architectural details.
While personal photography is usually allowed, avoid intrusive setups or blocking public access. Professional photography or filming may require permits.
Yes, the intricate Tiffany lamps are a major highlight and are generally fine to photograph for personal use.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Washington's History
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.
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.
Navigating the Capitol Campus
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.
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. The campus is also a site for various public events, from official ceremonies to demonstrations, offering a dynamic glimpse into civic life.
Architectural Marvels and Artistic Details
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.
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.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit