What is Olympia WA known for?
Olympia prides itself as being the capital of Washington State. Located 60 miles south of Seattle and Bellevue, Olympia is known for being a cultural hub, center of state government, and a popular destination for travelers on their way to the ocean.
Why is Olympia WA called Olympia?
In 1853 the town settled on the name Olympia, at the suggestion of local resident Isaac N. Ebey, due to its view of the Olympic Mountains to the northwest.
When was Olympia Washington built?
Laid out in 1851 as Smithfield, it became the site of a U.S. customs house and was renamed for the nearby Olympic Mountains. Chosen as the territorial capital in 1853, Olympia developed port facilities and a lumber-based economy, augmented by oyster farming, dairying, brewing, and other industries.
Is Olympia WA worth visiting?
The Iconic State Capitol Olympia, WA, located on the sparking waters of Puget Sound, is a small city big on history, culture and art. Family-friendly attractions, delectable dining and comfortable lodging options make exploring this capital city an ideal getaway for all.
Why Olympia is the capital of Washington?
However, by the 1850s, many settlers in the territory were beginning to differentiate between the lands north and south of the Columbia River, leading to the creation of Washington Territory. Isaac I. Stevens was the first governor of this new territory, and he designated Olympia as the capital in 1853.
What is it like living in Olympia WA?
Olympia Washington has a cost of living cheaper than that of its neighboring cities like Tacoma and Seattle. So you can maintain and afford your own lifestyle. Downtown Olympia is the centerpiece of the town offering a variety of eclectic shopping and dining options.
Where does Olympia get its water from?
Sources Of Drinking Water in Olympia, Washington City of Olympia’s drinking water is supplied by McAllister Wellfield and three additional groundwater sources. The McAllister Wellfield provided 74% of Olympia’s drinking water.
How old is Olympia Washington?
Olympia was incorporated as a town on January 28, 1859, and as a city in 1882. It had a population of 55, 605 at the time of the 2020 census, making it the state’s 24th-largest city. Olympia borders Lacey to the east and Tumwater to the south.
When was Olympia named capital of Washington?
November 28, 1853
Olympia proclaimed the Capitol On November 28, 1853, Governor Stevens proclaimed Olympia to be the capital of Washington Territory.
Is it expensive to live in Olympia Washington?
The Olympia area’s cost of living is about 10% higher than the national average, according to new data compiled by the Thurston County Regional Planning Council for the first quarter of 2020.
Why is Olympia the capital of Washington?
They established “New Market,” now known as Tumwater. The nearby town of Olympia was incorporated in the middle of the 19th century. In 1851 Olympia became a customs port of entry. Two years later in 1853 Washington Territory was created and Olympia became its capital.
Why is Olympia the capital and not Seattle?
Why is Olympia the capital of Washington, when cities like Seattle, Tacoma, and Spokane are more well known? The answer lies in the fact that rarely are capital cities chosen based on size or population alone. In fact, it is often location within a state that bears the most weight when deciding upon a capital city.