Community

Opportunities Abound

As trusted ambassadors, we foster communication and collaboration with our community to support a thriving quality of life and business environment across Thurston County. There are many ways to engage with the Port—connecting directly with the Commissioners, volunteering your time, or simply enjoying the waterfront’s sights and views.

Businesses and nonprofit associations can take advantage of educational events which the Port sponsors through Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, Thurston County Economic Development Council and Experience Olympia & Beyond.

Port Hosted Events

At the Port of Olympia, we’re committed to building community and creating memorable experiences for everyone who visits. Whether you’re a longtime resident or discovering the waterfront for the first time, join us in celebrating all that summer on the waterfront has to offer.

Port-Promoted Events

The Port of Olympia offers community advertising and promotion support to qualifying organizations for events and activities that positively highlight the Port, its businesses, and its mission to advance trade, tourism, and economic development.

Requests must be submitted in writing using the designated application form and in accordance with established procedures. Funding for community advertising and promotion is allocated annually as part of the Port’s budget adopted each November. The level of Port support will be tailored to match the anticipated benefit to the Port.

Explore the Working Waterfront

The Port of Olympia offers free educational and fun tours of its operations nearly every month from May through October. These tours are an opportunity to watch the workings of an international shipping terminal in Thurston County and learn about the Port’s other lines of business including Swantown Marina, the Olympia Airport and the Port’s properties division.

Education

During the tour, participants will observe cargo operations, including log loaders, forklifts, and other equipment. They will also learn how Thurston County is connected to the global trade network and the crucial role the Port plays in moving a wide range of goods to their final destinations. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the Port’s operations, economic impact on the community, the role for emergency preparedness and acquire knowledge about the Swantown Marina & Boatworks, Olympia Regional Airport, and the Port’s Real Estate program.

Tour Details

Our free public tours program are outdoor walking tours lasting approximately one hour and begin at 11:00 a.m. from May through October. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and dressing for the weather. While we often have vessels in port, vessel availability is not guaranteed.

You’re welcome to sign up for our vessel‑arrival announcements to stay informed about ship schedules: Stay Informed – Port of Olympia

Children of all ages are welcome. Tours are stroller‑ and wheelchair‑accessible. Photo identification is required for visitors age 17 and older.

Reservations Required:
Space is limited. Reserve your spot by emailing Tours@PortOlympia.com.

Photo ID Required for Ages 17+:
Due to federal regulations, government‑issued photo identification (e.g., driver’s license or passport) is required for anyone age 17 or older to access the secured Marine Terminal.

Location and Duration:
Tours begin at 11:00 a.m. at the Port Plaza Tower, 701 Columbia St NW, Olympia, WA 98501, and last approximately one hour. Metered parking is available near the Port offices.

Attire:
Tours take place outdoors. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

Accessibility:
Tours are stroller‑ and wheelchair‑accessible, and children of all ages are welcome.

Vessel Availability:
Seeing a vessel in port is not guaranteed and depends on shipping schedules.

Liability Waiver:
A liability waiver must be completed to enter the Marine Terminal. Waivers can be downloaded below. Please email a signed copy in advance or bring a printed copy with you upon arrival.

2027 Port Public Tour Schedule

2027 Port Public Tours will be offered on May 4, June 1, July 6, August 3, September 7, and October 5. Please email Tours@PortOlympia.com to sign up for a tour.

Group Tours

In addition to the monthly scheduled tours, we can also accommodate groups from schools or other organizations, of 10 or more people. School and group tours will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis and according to Port availability.

To schedule your group tour, or if you have questions, please contact the Port via email.

Request a Speaker

The Port of Olympia offers speakers who can provide presentations on a wide range of Port‑related topics. Whether you’re interested in a general Port overview or a deep dive into areas such as budget and finance, environmental stewardship, economic development, the airport, marine terminal operations, real estate, or Swantown Marina & Boatworks, we’re happy to tailor a presentation to your group’s interests.

We welcome requests from neighborhood associations, community and civic organizations, professional groups, and other Thurston County audiences. Our team can provide a brief, informative presentation designed to help your group learn more about the Port’s work and its impact on the region.

For more information, please complete the request form. A member of the Port of Olympia’s Outreach team will follow up with you.

Community

Opportunities Abound

Port Hosted Events

Port-Promoted Events

Explore the Working Waterfront

Education

Tour Details

2027 Port Public Tour Schedule

Group Tours

Request a Speaker

Request a Speaker

Community Outreach Staff

Communications & Marketing Senior Manager

About Us

Current SEPA Notices