Area Attractions in Olympia, WA - Hands On Children's Museum

Area Attractions

The Hands On Children's Museum is located in vibrant downtown Olympia, the state capital. Mid-way between Seattle and Portland, Olympia is the perfect destination for a fabulous family getaway.

Visit the LOTT WET Science Center, which shares the East Bay Public Plaza with the museum, or wander around the stalls at the Farmers Market, enjoy the public art and marina along Olympia’s waterfront, or venture out to stay at the Great Wolf Lodge and splash in their indoor water park.

For more visitor information check out the family-friendly recommendations below, the City of Olympia, and Experience Olympia & Beyond.

Where to Play

Parks and Playgrounds in Olympia

Heritage Park Fountain
A popular gathering place containing an interactive fountain with 47 dancing spouts of water.

Percival Landing
Grab a treat at the Bayview Thriftway and walk the 1.5 mile boardwalk. Enjoy sweeping views of Budd Inlet and the Olympics, interpretive displays, public art, restaurants and picnic areas.

Port Plaza & Viewing Tower
Outdoor stage, viewing tower and public plaza.

Squaxin Park
Picnic areas, playground, interpretive trails, beachfront.

Yashiro Japanese Garden
Enjoy the tranquil beauty of this Asian inspired garden.

Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls Park
Picnic and play areas, trails along the falls.

Tumwater Historical Park
Playgrounds, picnic areas, river access, playing.

Burfoot Park
Just north of the City of Olympia, trails, beachfront.

Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
Enjoy the unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife habitat of the Nisqually River Delta.

Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve
Interpretive trails, paved ADA accessible ½ mile loop.

Olympia Attractions

WET Science Center
A fun, hands-on place to learn all about water, next door to the Hands On Children’s Museum.

East Bay Plaza
Play in a vibrant open space, learn about the benefits of reclaimed water and the efforts of the LOTT Clean Water Alliance, in front of the Hands On Children’s Museum.

Olympia Farmers Market
Enjoy local produce, fresh fruit, artisan crafts, baked goods, meat & dairy, with several restaurants, all set to daily live music.

Puget Sound Estuarium
Explore animals and plants in their local estuaries, where freshwater and saltwater meet.

Tour the Capitol Campus
Take a guided tour, visit buildings, memorials, and artwork on the capitol campus.

The Washington Center for the Performing Arts
Catch a cultural event at the South Puget Sound’s beloved performing arts facility.

Olympia Family Theater
Experience live family theater, for all ages, including shows for kids age 0-5.

Apple Tree Productions
See live performances of popular plays, performed by kids for kids.

Wolf Haven International
Learn all about wolves, nationally recognized wolf sanctuary.

Great Wolf Lodge
Kid-friendly attractions, an indoor water park, and more.

Where to Eat