A Downtown Guide: Spend a Spring Weekend Day Downtown!

*Photo Courtesy Compass Rose

Looking to support local businesses and spend a Spring day downtown? Spend a weekend day exploring downtown Olympia and all it has to offer!

Start the day with brunch at Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar or Octapas Cafe; both have outdoor dining options and a selection of fresh, local fare!

Then do some browsing at Browers Bookshop to find a good read and shopping at Buck's Spice Shop for custom spice blends. Stop by Archibald Sisters for a unique gift or funny card and Hot Toddy for something fresh and fun to add to your Spring wardrobe.

Looking for a Mother's Day Gift? Compass Rose, The Popinjay or Drees have something perfect for the Mother on your list.

Refuel with a cup of joe from Dancing Goats Coffee and head to Childhood's End Gallery to see their unique selection of local art and gifts and take in their bright and colorful new exhibit, "Small Works," featuring the work of seven Pacific Northwest artists and the sculptures of Seattle-based Ginny Conrow.

Stop at The Olympia Farmers Market and peruse the selection of fresh local produce, seafood, fresh bread and artisan goods and or grab a bite from one of their eight restaurant vendors!

Anywhere along the way, you can pursue Olympia's Public Art Collection or "It's the Water" display, an installation of 48 images that explore the importance of water in the South Sound. It is now on view in the windows of the historic 1912 City Hall and Fire Hall, located at State Street and Capitol Way. The project was produced by Olympia Arts & Heritage Alliance.

And finally, end the day with a meal, appetizer or drink from Cascadia Grill or a custom brew from Three Magnets Brewing Co. Need a sweet after-dinner treat? Juju's Iced Cream & Frozen Custard is open for the season, offering delicious seasonal flavors and specials!

See more ideas and places to visit in our Shop & Dine Guide below.