Olympia, Washington

The City of Olympia is the capital of Washington State and is located in Thurston County in the western part of the state. The city has a population of approximately 52,555 people, and covers an area of 19.68 square miles. Here are some details on the geography, history, attractions, transportation, and education of Olympia.

Geography

Olympia is located at the southern end of Puget Sound, and is surrounded by several bodies of water, including Budd Inlet and Capitol Lake. The city is also situated near several natural areas, including the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier. Olympia's climate is mild and rainy, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to mid-70s throughout the year.

History

The area that is now Olympia was once inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Nisqually, Squaxin Island, and Chehalis tribes. The city was founded in 1853 and quickly became a center of trade and commerce due to its location on the Puget Sound. Olympia was named the capital of Washington State in 1855, and has remained the capital ever since.

Attractions

Olympia offers a variety of attractions, including the Washington State Capitol, which features the Legislative Building, the Governor's Mansion, and the Temple of Justice. The city is also home to several museums, including the Hands On Children's Museum, the Washington State History Museum, and the LOTT Clean Water Alliance WET Science Center. Other popular attractions include the Tumwater Falls Park, which features a waterfall and salmon hatchery, and the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, a natural area that is home to several species of birds and wildlife.

Transportation

Olympia is connected to Seattle and other major cities by several transportation options, including Amtrak, Greyhound, and highways. The Olympia Transit Center serves as a transportation hub for buses, and the city is also home to Olympia Regional Airport, which provides general aviation services.

Education

Olympia is part of the Olympia School District, which serves approximately 9,500 students in grades K-12. The city is also home to several private schools, including Olympia Waldorf School and Saint Michael School. Higher education options in the area include The Evergreen State College, a public liberal arts college, and South Puget Sound Community College, which offers associate's degrees and professional certifications.

Olympia is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history and cultural attractions. Its location on the Puget Sound and near several natural areas make it a popular destination for outdoor recreation, while its museums, government buildings, and educational institutions make it an important center of commerce and culture in the state.

For more information, please Visit Olympia.