Community

Opportunities Abound

As trusted ambassadors, we ensure communication and collaboration with our community members to continually improve the quality of life and business across Thurston County. There are a variety of opportunities for participating with the Port, from communicating directly with the Commissioners, to volunteering, to enjoying the sites and views on the waterfront.

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.

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Port-Promoted Events

The Port of Olympia may provide community advertising and promotion support to qualifying organizations to be used for events and other activities that will positively market the Port and Port businesses, and the Port’s mission to support trade, tourism and economic development. Requests will be made in writing, using the application form, consistent with written procedures developed in accordance with this policy. Funds for community advertising and promotion are included in the annual budget, which is adopted in November. The level of Port participation 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. 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 Property Development program.

Education

During the tours, see various stages of the log cargo operations. Learn how Thurston County is connected with the global trade network, and how various modes of transportation move goods to their final destination. See the mobile harbor crane and other operational equipment, which are impressive by size alone.

You will leave with basic knowledge about global trade, the operations of a working waterfront and the economic value that ports provide the community.

Tour Details

All Public Tours have been cancelled until further notice.

Tours are outdoor walking tours lasting approximately 2 hours.  Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.   A vessel in port is not guaranteed.  Children of all ages are welcome.  Tours are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Photo identification is required for anyone over 17 years of age.

Where:  Tours begin at the Port offices at 626 Columbia Street NW STE 1-B (Olympics Room) in Olympia.

Reservations Required:  Space is limited so reservations are required. Use the links below to reserve space on a tour.

Liability Waiver:  Required for all tour participants.  Print and complete this Liability Waiver for each tour participant and bring it with you on the day of the tour.

All Public Tours have been cancelled until further notice.

Port Tour Schedule

Tours are subject to cancellation due to severe weather or unforeseen emergency situations.

Group Tours

In addition to the monthly scheduled tours, we can also accommodate groups from schools or other organizations. 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 or by calling us today.

Request a Speaker

The Port of Olympia has speakers available to talk about the Port in general or items of special interest to the group. You can ask for a Port overview or information on a specific topic such as budget/finance, environment, economic development, airport, seaport, real estate, marina/boatworks, etc.

Whether your group is a neighborhood association, community or civic group, professional association or other special interest group of Thurston County citizens, the Port has a brief presentation to share with you.

For more information, please fill out the form and the Port of Olympia’s Outreach staff will contact you.

 

Request a Speaker

Community Outreach Staff

Emily Girton

Marketing & Outreach Coordinator

Taber Lee

Communications and Marketing Senior Manager

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Current SEPA Notices

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