Columbus Park

For dining options near Columbus Park, Olympia offers a diverse range of restaurants. COVE is known for its casual, trendy atmosphere and great beer selection, offering a variety of comfort foods. Budd Bay Cafe is a waterfront spot famous for its seafood and Sunday brunch, providing stunning views of Budd Bay. Cascadia Grill offers a laid-back vibe with burgers and local brews, while Shipwreck Cafe serves American classics in a cozy setting. Tugboat Annie's combines casual dining with a maritime theme and kayak rentals.

These restaurants cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors have a wide range of options to enjoy during their stay near Columbus Park.

For accommodations near Columbus Park, several hotels offer convenient and comfortable stays. The Hilton Garden Inn Olympia features an indoor pool and a restaurant, providing a cozy environment. The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Olympia offers an informal setting with an indoor pool and free Wi-Fi. Although the Olympia Hotel at Capitol Lake is currently closed, it was known for its lake views and dining options.

These hotels are well-suited for travelers seeking a mix of comfort and accessibility to local attractions.

Columbus Park offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes picnic sites, a playground for children, and a picturesque stream. It also features a beautiful green grassy beach area for sunbathing and roped-off swimming areas. Additionally, there are volleyball pits, horseshoe pits, and indoor and outdoor rental kitchens available. The park's excellent boat ramp and multiple campsites further cater to boaters and campers.

For those looking to stay longer, Columbus Park provides year-round residence options with 45 RV spaces and multiple campsites. The park's facilities are designed to accommodate both short-term visitors and long-term residents, making it a versatile destination for different types of travelers.

Columbus Park is a hub for various activities that cater to different interests. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the designated areas or engage in sports like volleyball and horseshoe. The park's proximity to Black Lake makes it an ideal spot for fishing, with species like trout, catfish, bass, bluegill, and crappie available in abundance. The scenic surroundings also make it perfect for picnics and relaxation.

For those interested in water activities, the park offers access to a boat ramp, allowing boaters to explore Black Lake. Additionally, the playground and green spaces provide ample opportunities for children to play and enjoy the outdoors.

While specific details about disability access at Columbus Park are not provided, many of the nearby restaurants and hotels offer wheelchair-accessible facilities. For instance, COVE and Budd Bay Cafe have wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, restrooms, and seating. Similarly, hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn Olympia and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Olympia offer accessible amenities. It is advisable to contact the park directly for specific information on its accessibility features.

Parking at Columbus Park is generally accessible, with a fee for day passes. The park charges $7 for a day pass, which allows visitors to enjoy the facilities throughout the day. While specific parking capacity details are not provided, the park is designed to accommodate both day visitors and long-term residents, ensuring that there are adequate parking options available.

The proximity of the park to nearby shopping and dining areas in Olympia also means that visitors have additional parking options if needed, although these may incur separate fees.

Columbus Park has a rich history dating back to its purchase by the Knights of Columbus in 1909. Originally, it included 26 acres on the lake and 150 undeveloped acres across the street, along with 50 rowboats and an eight-unit bathhouse. The park has hosted numerous community events over the years, including the Olympia Brewery's annual picnics and family reunions that have continued for generations.

The park's unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit makes it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. Stories of first kisses in the old dance hall, now used as storage, add to the park's nostalgic charm.

Columbus Park itself is a significant attraction due to its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. However, the surrounding area offers additional attractions. Olympia, being the capital of Washington, features various cultural and historical sites, including the Washington State Capitol Campus. Nearby, the Percival Landing and the Olympia Farmers Market provide a glimpse into local culture and commerce.

For nature lovers, the Tumwater Falls Park and the nearby Puget Sound offer more opportunities to explore the region's natural beauty.