Tips for planning your Capitol Campus visit during legislative session
Washington’s 2026 legislative session is Monday, Jan. 12 to Thursday, March 12. Learn how to get here, move around, stay safe, and make the most of your visit.
During the 2026 legislative session, elected officials gather on Capitol Campus to make decisions that shape the future. Many people come to express their views. We’ve got information to help visitors make the most of their trip.
Find parking and transportation
- Shuttle service: DES operates a free shuttle between the Plaza Garage and West Capitol Campus for visitors and state employees during legislative session. This 7-passenger shuttle runs every 15 minutes from 6:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on weekdays.
- Bus service: Intercity Transit Route 14 is free between downtown Olympia and Capitol Campus. It runs every 30 minutes, 12 hours a day. Long-distance travel options are also available between campus and Pierce County. Find more information on intercitytransit.com.
- Parking: Metered parking areas surrounding campus cost $2 per hour, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking is free on weekends and evenings. ADA parking is available in campus parking lots and garages on a first-come basis.
- EV charging stations: Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are available for visitors at Capitol Gateway Park, Natural Resources Building, and Plaza Garage Level A.
- Pedestrian bridge: For safe commuting between West and East Campus, use the pedestrian bridge that spans over Capitol Way.
Learn more about parking options.
Stay safe
We want everyone’s time at Capitol Campus to be enriching, enjoyable, and safe.
You can sign up for safety notifications from WA Agency Alerts, the campus’ emergency warning system.
- To sign up for ongoing notifications, text CAMPUSALERT to 888-777.
- To sign up for notifications for one week only, text CAMPUSGUEST to the same number.
Learn more about WA Agency Alerts.
Access amenities
The Legislative Building café is located on the first floor. Taylor Ray’s Café is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
A lactation room is available by request. Please visit the first floor Visitor Services office for more information.
ADA accessible restrooms are available on all four floors of the Legislative Building.
Browse products that showcase the best of Washington’s artists and vendors at the Legislative Gift Center on the first floor near the Visitor Services office.
View or download the campus map.
Stay informed
The Capitol Campus event calendar shows the events and activities that are planned in public spaces. Some activities may impact parking and traffic.
Sign up for updates to learn about tours and events, upcoming road or sidewalk closures, or behind-the-scenes activities shaping the campus.
Enjoy the state capitol
Consider spending additional time on the beautiful, historic campus:
- Visit the Sunken Garden or Heritage Park.
- Take a free Legislative Building tour.
- Discover stunning architecture, including the Temple of Justice.
- View public artwork and memorials, many of which honor the state’s veterans and first responders.
- Once you’ve made it to campus, check out the While You’re Here page for reminders and current events.
We look forward to seeing you soon!