414 Jefferson Street NE
Olympia, WA , 98501-1124

Phone: (360) 956-0818

Website

Since its founding in 1987, Hands On has evolved from a fledgling “museum without walls” to the premier provider of hands-on science and art education in Southwest Washington. In 1998, the Museum moved from the tiny storefront facility to the State’s Capitol Campus. After just three years in this location, Hands On hosted more visitors per square foot than any other children’s Museum in the Northwest! Over the next 10 years, the Museum outgrew its space three times. The Museum recently received $9 million in Public Facility District funds, which was used to construct its new home, a permanent facility on Olympia’s downtown waterfront.

Admission not required, but you do need to check in at the front desk.
Hours of operation: Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sunday and Monday: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Outdoor Discovery Center closes at dusk.
General Admission (age 1+): $19.95, Seniors (65+): $8.95, Military with ID: $8.95, Babies (0-11 months) are free but a ticket is still required.
The Museum parking lot is $1.00 per hour. The parking lot may be full on weekends, but metered street parking (free on weekends) is available on surrounding streets, including: Olympia, Chestnut, Thurston, State, and Jefferson south of Olympia.

The penny machine is located inside to the left of the gift shop. They all have 'Hands On Children's Museum' on them. Designs are:
1) (H) A bird flying to a nest at the top of slide tree house.
2) (V) Ship inside museum with 'The Stars Foundation'.
3) (V) Front tower with hands.
4) (H) Water ball play feature.

G.P.S. coordinates: Latitude: N47° 2' 52.548" Longitude: W122° 53' 48.5874"

9/13: The penny machine was placed here.

8/04/2021 - Pennies still rolling great.