A capital day in Olympia
For maps, brochures, and other information, stop first at the State Capitol Information Center (Capitol Way and 14th Ave. off the I-5 State Capitol exit; 360/586-3460). Daily tours of the Capitol Campus take place hourly from 10 to 3 and leave from the front of the Capitol Building (360/586-8687 for reservations).
ATTRACTIONS
Farmers Market. A one-stop spot for fresh produce and locally crafted gifts. 10-3 Thu-Sun, Apr-Oct; 10-3 Sat-Sun, Nov-Dec. 700 Capitol Way N.; (360) 352-9096.
Hands On Children's Museum. Kids can build a boat, a house, or even a city, thanks to the museum's interactive exhibits. 10-5 Mon-Sat (until 9 Fri), 12-5 Sun; $6. 106 11th Ave. S.W.; (360) 956-0818.
State Capital Museum. Learn about various chapters of Washington state history by visiting a reconstructed Salish tribal winter lodge and an exhibit on the establishment of the Washington Territory. 10-4 Tue-Fri, 12-4 Sat; $2. 211 21st Ave. W.; (360) 753-2580.
DINING
The Oyster House. Opened in 1922 as the Olympia Oyster Company, this is the state's oldest seafood restaurant. Olympia oysters are the signature item on an enormous menu. 320 Fourth Ave. W.; (360) 753-7000.
The Spar Café, Bar & Tobacco Merchant. Breakfasts here are big and scrumptious― try the crab cake Benedict or the Hangtown Fry, an egg dish made with local seafood. Lunch and dinner are also served, and there's live jazz every Saturday night. 114 Fourth Ave. E.; (360) 357-6444.
