Named after a former commercial steamship wharf, the park is a well-known maritime landmark in the Pacific Northwest.

Built by Sam Percival in 1860, the wharf operated for several decades, and was torn down and replaced several times during that period.

The former Unocal Tank Farm site was acquired by the City of Olympia in 1996, and is now an open lawn.

Today the park features picnic areas, public art, boat moorage and a playground.

[3] There are several events held annually at Percival Landing Park, including Harbor Days and "Sand in the City", as well as the Wooden Boat Festival.