How to Tour the State Capital of Washington

Olympia, Washington, was founded by American settlers who claimed the town in 1846. The name "Olympia" reflects the Olympic mountains that can be seen on the horizon. In 1855, Olympia became the capital of the territory, and in 1889, Washington became a state with Olympia as its capital, and the city began to grow. Today, Olympia has witnessed outstanding growth from the addition of The Evergreen State College, which has contributed culture and a more educational environment to the city.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Start out at Washington State's Legislative Building, constructed in 1928. The dome is 287 feet high and weighs 33,200,000 pounds. The Legislative Building is in the center of five historic buildings. Housing the Legislature and the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State and Treasurer, the State Legislative Building also has the largest chandelier ever made by Tiffany. Take a tour any day between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. If you plan a group tour, call [phone] for reservations.

2. Stop by the Black Hills Audubon Society, which is a volunteer-based organization with over 1,100 members. The mission of the society is to protect natural habitats and to educate the public on the environment and ecosystems.

3. Hike over to the Chehalis Western Trail, a 22-mile course designed for walking, biking or observing birds. Bikers have many choices of trails, and may obtain a map from the Visitors & Convention Bureau. Call [phone] to obtain a map of the trail.

4. Find your way to the Capitol Lake Fish Ladder, which Chinook Salmon travel through to find their way to the Deschutes River in the fall.

5. Take a romantic ride in a horse-drawn carriage and enjoy viewing downtown Olympia, the Farmers Market and Percival Landing. Olympia Carriage will also take you on a historic tour. Call [phone] for more information.