Explore Olympia’s Filming Locations

Olympia, the vibrant capital of Washington State, has a rich cinematic and literary heritage that remains largely unexplored. This picturesque city, nestled at the southern tip of Puget Sound, has served as the backdrop for a number of famous films shot in Olympia, as well as TV shows and books. Whether you’re a movie buff, an avid reader, or a travel enthusiast, this comprehensive guide will help you uncover the city’s filmic and literary allure, one iconic site at a time.

Cinematic Olympia: Famous Films Shot in the City

Over the years, Olympia’s stunning natural beauty and unique urban landscapes have caught the eye of many filmmakers. From indie productions to blockbuster hits, the city’s serene parks, historic buildings, and bustling streets have been immortalized on the silver screen. Here are some notable films that were shot in Olympia:

1. The Hand That Rocks the Cradle  (1992) – Directed by Curtis Hanson, this psychological thriller features scenes shot in Olympia’s scenic neighborhoods.
2. Say Anything  (1989) – This classic romantic comedy, directed by Cameron Crowe, used Olympia’s Evergreen State College as a filming location.
3. Twice in a Lifetime  (1985) – Directed by Bud Yorkin, this drama film features Olympia’s iconic Washington State Capitol Building.
4. WarGames  (1983) – This sci-fi thriller, directed by John Badham, captured Olympia’s serene forests and waterfronts.
5. The Ring  (2002) – Some scenes of this horror film, directed by Gore Verbinski, were shot in Olympia’s rustic farmlands.

While the list of movies filmed in Olympia is not as extensive as some other cities, the diverse range of genres and styles showcased attest to the city’s versatile appeal as a filming location.

TV Shows Set in Olympia

Olympia’s charm isn’t confined to the big screen. The city’s scenic locales have also served as the backdrop for various TV shows. From sitcoms to crime dramas, Olympia’s cinematic appeal shines through in these series:

1. Northern Exposure  (1990-1995) – This popular comedy-drama series, though primarily shot in Roslyn, Washington, has several scenes set in and around Olympia.
2. The Killing  (2011-2014) – The crime drama series, originally set in Seattle, features several scenes filmed in Olympia, particularly in its second season.
3. Grey’s Anatomy  (2005-present) – The long-running medical drama series occasionally features scenes set in Olympia.

These TV shows not only provide a glimpse into Olympia’s enchanting landscapes but also its vibrant city life.

Animated Films Set in Olympia

Olympia’s cinematic allure isn’t limited to live-action films and TV shows. The city’s vibrant landscapes and charming cityscapes have also served as inspiration for animated films. Here are a few examples:

1. The Brave Little Toaster Goes to Mars  (1998) – This direct-to-video animated film features a scene where the titular toaster and its appliance friends witness a beautiful sunrise over Olympia.
2. Meet the Robinsons  (2007) – In this Disney animated film, the city of Olympia is mentioned as the place where Lewis, the protagonist, attends the science fair.
3. Big Hero 6  (2014) – The city of San Fransokyo in this Oscar-winning animated film is a combination of San Francisco and Tokyo, but some scenes were inspired by Olympia’s landscapes.

These films showcase Olympia’s potential as a setting for animated storytelling, further emphasizing the city’s diverse appeal as a filming location.

Famous Books Set in Olympia

Olympia’s allure extends beyond the screen and into the realm of literature. Several authors have chosen the city as the setting for their stories, enriching their narratives with Olympia’s unique atmosphere and cultural vibrancy. Here are six famous books set in Olympia that you might want to add to your reading list:

Classic Literature

1. Snow Falling on Cedars  by David Guterson – This award-winning novel, set in a fictional Puget Sound community, features many scenes set in and around Olympia.
2. The Egg and I  by Betty MacDonald – While not entirely set in Olympia, this humorous memoir of MacDonald’s life as a chicken farmer in Washington State includes several mentions of the city.
3. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian  by Sherman Alexie – This critically acclaimed novel, while primarily set on the Spokane Indian Reservation, features the protagonist’s visit to Olympia.

Contemporary Works

1. Where’d You Go, Bernadette  by Maria Semple – This best-selling novel, set in Seattle, includes several scenes where characters travel to Olympia.
2. The Art of Racing in the Rain  by Garth Stein – This heartfelt novel, told from a dog’s perspective, features several scenes set in Olympia’s iconic locations.
3. The Orchardist  by Amanda Coplin – This historical novel, set in the Pacific Northwest, features Olympia as a key location in the story.

These books, with their evocative descriptions of Olympia, offer readers an immersive experience of the city’s charm and character.

Exploring Olympia’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

A film-themed tour of Olympia would be incomplete without a visit to the iconic locations that have graced the screen. From historic landmarks to scenic parks, these sites offer a glimpse into the city’s cinematic history:

1. Washington State Capitol Building  – Featured in  Twice in a Lifetime, the Capitol Building’s grand architecture is a sight to behold.
2. Evergreen State College  – This progressive liberal arts and sciences college, featured in  Say Anything, is nestled in a beautiful forest.
3. Percival Landing Park  – With views of the Olympia waterfront, this park is a popular location for film and photo shoots.
4. Priest Point Park  – This serene park, with its lush forests and tranquil beach, has been a backdrop in several films.
5. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge  – This haven for wildlife, located just outside Olympia, has appeared in nature documentaries and films.
6. Downtown Olympia  – With its charming streets and historic buildings, downtown Olympia is a favorite among filmmakers.

Remember to bring your camera to capture the cinematic magic of these locations!

Where to Sleep in Olympia

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for luxury, Olympia offers a range of accommodation options to suit your needs. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury hotels in Olympia:

Budget

1. TownPlace Suites by Marriott Olympia  – This hotel offers comfortable rooms and a convenient downtown location.
2. Hotel RL Olympia  – Located near the Capitol Building, this hotel offers affordable rates and scenic views of the city.
3. Quality Inn Olympia  – This budget-friendly hotel offers clean rooms and a complimentary breakfast.

Luxury

1. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Olympia  – This upscale hotel offers spacious rooms and a convenient location near downtown attractions.
2. The Governor, a Coast Hotel  – This luxury hotel, located in the heart of downtown Olympia, offers elegant rooms and a top-rated restaurant.
3. Swantown Inn & Spa  – This historic bed and breakfast offers luxurious rooms and a full-service spa.

No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll be within easy reach of Olympia’s iconic filming locations.

Where to Eat in Olympia

From hearty comfort food to fine dining, Olympia offers a wide range of culinary delights. Here are three budget and three luxury dining options in the city:

Budget

1. Darby’s Cafe  – This local favorite offers delicious breakfast options and is known for its home-style cooking.
2. Vic’s Pizzeria  – This budget-friendly pizzeria is beloved by locals for its delicious thin-crust pizza.
3. The Spar Café  – This historic café offers a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and other comfort foods at affordable prices.

Luxury

1. Waterstreet Café and Bar  – This upscale restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring local and seasonal ingredients.
2. Dockside Bistro & Wine Bar  – This waterfront restaurant offers a gourmet menu featuring fresh seafood and a wide selection of wines.
3. Gardner’s Seafood & Pasta  – This upscale restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes and elegant atmosphere.

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a gourmet meal, Olympia’s diverse culinary scene won’t disappoint.

Detailed Itinerary Day by Day

Planning a film-themed trip to Olympia? Here’s a detailed three-day itinerary to help you explore the city’s iconic filming locations:

Day 1: Downtown Olympia

• Start your day with a visit to the Washington State Capitol Building, a popular filming location.
• Head to Percival Landing Park for a scenic stroll and a picnic lunch.
• Explore downtown Olympia’s historic buildings and charming streets, which have served as the backdrop for various films and TV shows.
• Enjoy dinner at Waterstreet Café and Bar.

Day 2: Olympia’s Natural Beauty

• Visit Evergreen State College, a filming location for  Say Anything.
• Head to Priest Point Park for a hike and a picnic lunch amidst nature.
• Explore the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, a filming location for nature documentaries.
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at Gardner’s Seafood & Pasta.

Day 3: Iconic Olympia

• Visit the Olympia Farmers Market in the morning to experience local culture.
• Head to the scenic Tumwater Falls Park, a popular location for photo shoots.
• Visit the Olympic Flight Museum, an aircraft museum that has featured in several documentaries.
• End your day with a gourmet meal at Dockside Bistro & Wine Bar.

This itinerary includes a mix of historic landmarks, scenic parks, and iconic city spots, offering a comprehensive tour of Olympia’s cinematic landscape.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Olympia is not just known for its cinematic and literary charm, but also for its local legends and curiosities. The most famous of these is the legend of Bigfoot, or Sasquatch, a large, hairy, ape-like creature believed to inhabit the forests of the Pacific Northwest. The city’s Evergreen State College even has a plaster cast of a purported Sasquatch footprint!

Another local legend is the story of the Mima Mounds, a natural area located south of Olympia. These strange, uniform mounds have sparked numerous theories about their origin, ranging from glacial activity to burrowing gophers. The site has even been featured in several documentaries.

If you’re a fan of the unexplained, Olympia’s local legends and curiosities are sure to add an element of mystery to your visit.

Hidden Gems in Olympia

While Olympia’s iconic landmarks often steal the limelight, the city is also home to numerous hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are a few lesser-known locations that have featured in films and books:

1. Tumwater Falls Park  – This scenic park, with its cascading waterfall, is a hidden treasure in Olympia that has been featured in several local films.
2. Old School Pizzeria  – This quirky pizza joint, adorned with retro pop culture memorabilia, was a filming location for a local indie film.
3. Capitol Lake  – This serene lake, located near the Capitol Building, has been a backdrop in several local TV shows.
4. Bigelow House Museum  – This historic house museum, known for its Victorian architecture, has been featured in several period dramas.

These hidden gems offer a unique perspective of Olympia’s cinematic landscape, away from the usual tourist spots.

What to Pack for a Trip to Olympia

When packing for your film-themed trip to Olympia, consider the city’s climate and the activities you plan to do. Here are some packing essentials for your trip:

• Clothing  – Pack a mix of light and warm clothing to accommodate Olympia’s varying weather. Don’t forget a waterproof jacket or umbrella for the city’s frequent rain showers.
• Footwear  – Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll likely be exploring the city on foot.
• Camera  – Don’t forget your camera to capture the city’s cinematic sites.
• Notebook  – A notebook can be helpful for jotting down interesting facts or observations about the filming locations you visit.
• City Map  – A detailed map of Olympia will be useful for navigating the city and locating filming sites.
• Travel Documents  – Don’t forget to carry necessary identification and travel documents.

With these essentials in your suitcase, you’re all set for your cinematic adventure in Olympia!

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Olympia

Getting around Olympia is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s well-connected public transportation system. Here are some transportation tips for your trip:

• InterCity Transit  – Olympia’s public transportation system offers extensive bus services throughout the city.
• Biking  – Olympia is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and trails. Consider renting a bike for a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.
• Walking  – Many of Olympia’s iconic locations are within walking distance from each other, making walking a convenient option.
• Driving  – If you prefer driving, consider renting a car. However, be prepared for traffic during peak hours and limited parking in the city center.
• Taxis/Rideshares  – For convenience, consider using taxis or rideshare services like Uber and Lyft.

Remember to plan your travel in advance to maximize your time exploring Olympia’s iconic filming locations.

Conclusion

From its cinematic landscapes to its literary allure, Olympia offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re retracing the steps of your favorite characters, exploring iconic film locations, or discovering the city’s hidden gems, Olympia promises an unforgettable journey through its film and literary heritage. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the magic of Olympia!