I Asked Our AI-Travel Planner for a Weekend Adventure in Olympia — Here’s What It Created

As someone who has created travel itineraries for years, and as an individual who has a hard time giving up control, I must say I was skeptical to let AI plan a weekend adventure in Olympia, Washington, for a young family. Would it create a realistic itinerary? Would it offer recommendations similar to those from locals?

Well, I put it to the test and used Only In Your State’s award-winning AI-powered Dashboard trip planner. Rather than search online and navigate through all of the things to do in Olympia myself, this tool uses our extensive content library to build a personalized itinerary. I simply told the Dashboard the length of my trip, who I would be traveling with, and the type of activities I wanted to experience. I also asked for suggestions for attractions, restaurants, and accommodations. The following is my personalized itinerary it provided. How did it do?

Things to do in Olympia, Washington

Hands-On Children’s Museum

I told the Dashboard that I wanted to bring my entire family along for this weekend visit to Olympia, so I was pleasantly surprised to see the Hands On Children’s Museum in Olympia right at the top of my itinerary. This is no small museum, as there are more than 150 exhibits to check out, a half-acre outdoor space for play, and even 10 galleries — it’s easy to spend several hours here. Throughout the museum, children can learn, unleash their creativity, and explore through all types of activities and attractions. If you plan your visit just right, you can also attend one of the many events held here.

Olympia Farmers Market

The Olympia Farmers Market is open year-round, making it a fabulous stop in this Washington city. Here, you can shop the many vendors for fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more. There are eight restaurants at the market, making it a delicious place to stop for lunch, and the live entertainment will capture your attention and make you want to stay for a while. The Olympia Farmers Market has been a city tradition since 1975 and a destination you need to visit at least once.

Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Approximately 10 miles outside of Olympia is the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, a beautiful place to spend some time outdoors. When the grounds are open, take a walk along one of the trails, look for wildlife of all sizes, and enjoy the quiet, calming sounds of nature. Stop into the Norm Dicks Visitor Center where you can view exhibits and talk to experts to learn more about the environment and wildlife in this area. This is a beautiful place to explore if you want to step outside of the city, and is a destination I love to recommend as well.  

Places to eat in Olympia, Washington

Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar

I must admit that I was not disappointed when Only In Your State’s Dashboard recommended Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar. This establishment is owned by second-generation shellfish farmers who take pride in their local, sustainably-harvested shellfish. And while oysters are certainly the specialty at Chelsea Farms, expand your taste buds and try geoduck or poached prawns, and pair your meal with a beer or cider. If you plan your visit just right, I recommend you stop in for the weekend brunch.

Where to stay in Olympia, Washington

AirBnTree at Adams Cove

Yes, Olympia has several hotels to book, so I was excited to see that a unique vacation rental — the AirBnTree at Adams Cove — was the highlighted accommodation. This two-story treehouse is located on 10 acres and is ideal for two guests. The ability to climb stairs is an absolute must, but you can easily live out your childhood dream of sleeping in the trees by booking a stay here.

The Gnome Gully

Now,  if you bring your entire family to this Washington city, the AirBnTree at Adams Cove will not be large enough. Instead, you may want to consider the Gnome Gully, a vacation rental that can accommodate up to seven guests, is tucked away in the forest, and offers beautiful water views. You’ll have plenty of space for everyone, and a long list of amenities to ensure you are comfortable and can easily relax.  

So, what do you think about this weekend itinerary to Olympia? What other attractions, restaurants, or accommodations would you add? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to hear your recommendations. Now, you give our Only In Your State’s AI-powered Dashboard trip planner a try. What adventures does it recommend for you?