BEST BARS IN OLYMPIA:
YOUR GUIDE TO THE TOP DRINKING SPOTS
Olympia, Washington, boasts a surprisingly diverse and engaging bar scene, particularly concentrated in its bustling Downtown area. From historic taverns to modern craft breweries and intimate cocktail lounges, the city offers a rich tapestry of nightlife options. Key neighborhoods like Downtown Olympia and the nearby Tumwater area provide distinct atmospheres, catering to various preferences, whether you're seeking a quiet evening with fine wine or a lively night out with friends.
Top Picks in Olympia
Cryptatropa Bar
Cryptatropa Bar, also known as The Crypt, offers a unique gothic and vampiric ambiance with spooky chandeliers and an embalming table. It's known for its hand-crafted cocktails, live music, and dark, cozy atmosphere, attracting a diverse crowd.
Rose Rickey
Well 80 Brewhouse
Well 80 Brewhouse specializes in Olympia Artesian Well Made Beer, offering a wide selection of craft brews alongside a menu of comfort food. It features a lively atmosphere, suitable for casual dining and group gatherings.
Pretzels and Beer Cheese
Octapas Cafe
Octapas Cafe is a vibrant spot known for its tapas, craft cocktails, and live music. It offers a unique dining and drinking experience with a lively atmosphere and a diverse menu.
Crab Cake Benedict
All Olympia Bars
Eastside Club Tavern
The Eastside Club Tavern is a classic, no-nonsense dive bar and an Olympia institution. It offers a great selection of beers, pool tables, ping pong, and a casual, friendly atmosphere.
The Brotherhood Lounge
The Brotherhood Lounge, affectionately known as 'Broho,' is a true gem in Olympia's bar scene. It features a long bar, red booths, pool tables, shuffleboard, pinball, and a jukebox, offering a welcoming and entertaining environment.
State & Central
State & Central is a neighborhood pub specializing in great food and drinks in a relaxed setting. It's a place where food, drink, and friends are all enjoyed!
Uptown Grill
Uptown Grill offers a fine dining experience with a creative menu, extensive wine list, and craft cocktails. They have happy hour food & drinks 2-5pm daily and prime rib every Friday & Saturday night.
Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar
Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar is a bright, modern space offering farm-fresh oysters, a variety of other seafood dishes, and craft cocktails. It's a great spot for seafood lovers and a true taste of the Pacific Northwest.
Rumors Wine Bar
Rumors Wine Bar is a cozy spot to unwind with a glass of wine, offering a wide selection of wines from all regions, beer, and bubbles. They also host events like Paint & Sips and Wine 101 classes.
Briggs Taphouse
Briggs Taphouse is a newer favorite offering a wide selection of craft beers and ciders, along with delicious pizzas and wings. It's a casual, dog-friendly spot with outdoor seating and a 21+ area.
Valentina’s Lounge Restaurant and Tequila Bar
Valentina’s Lounge offers homemade, modern Latin cuisine with a thoughtful menu of small bites, amazing cocktails, and main dishes. They pride themselves on fresh, made-from-scratch food and are known for their tequila selection.
Cheeky Martini Lounge
Cheeky Martini Lounge is a unique, plant-based bar in downtown Olympia, known for its over-the-top cocktail creations and small bites. It offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a sophisticated night out.
Bar Districts & Neighborhoods
Downtown Olympia
The heart of Olympia"s nightlife, offering a mix of traditional pubs, cocktail bars, and unique venues.
Best for: Diverse crowd, pub crawls, live music
Tumwater
Known for its growing craft brewery scene and casual dining options.
Best for: Craft beer enthusiasts, casual gatherings
Suggested Bar Crawl Route
A curated walking order through Olympia's top bars — start early, end late.
Cryptatropa Bar
Downtown Olympia
Mon-Sun 4pm-2am
Well 80 Brewhouse
Downtown Olympia
Mon-Thu 11:30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-11pm, Sun 11:30am-10pm
Octapas Cafe
Downtown Olympia
Mon-Sun 9am-9pm
Eastside Club Tavern
Downtown Olympia
Mon-Sun 1pm-1am
The Brotherhood Lounge
Downtown Olympia
Mon-Sun 4pm-2am
State & Central
Downtown Olympia
Mon-Sun 9am-9pm
Pro tip: Start around 7–8 PM at stop #1 and allow 45–60 minutes per venue. Use rideshare between stops that are more than 10 minutes apart.
Local Tips for Bar Hopping in Olympia
- 1Consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation, especially when exploring Downtown Olympia, as parking can be limited.
- 2Many bars in Olympia offer excellent happy hour specials; check their websites or call ahead for details to enjoy great deals.
- 3Explore beyond the main streets; some of Olympia's best bars are hidden gems tucked away in quieter corners.
Frequently Asked Questions
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