Thurston County in Bloom: Your Guide to Spring Wildflowers
Blog
Take away new ideas to help shape your upcoming trip to our little corner of the world by browsing our blogs.
It’s the perfect way to learn a little or a lot about those travel details that are most interesting to you.
Welcome to Olympia and Thurston County, where a world of captivating stories is waiting for you to write the next chapter! Our collection of tales unveils a rich tapestry of outdoor adventures, inviting you to hike through lush forests, kayak along serene waterways, and breathe in the beauty of our natural landscapes. Dive into the heart of the Thurston Bountiful Byway, where farm-fresh delights and the rural charm of local markets beckon. Feel the pulse of artistic expression as our vibrant community showcases its creativity through galleries, performances, and cultural events. Whether you seek the thrill of outdoor recreation or the soul-nourishing embrace of artistic endeavors, Thurston County promises an unforgettable journey filled with diverse experiences that capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest.
Looking for seasonal inspiration? Browse through the collection below and discover "must-do" no matter what time of the year you're here.
Springtime In the Olympia Area
Spring usually comes early in the Olympia region and it's highlighted by bursts of color as bulbs and flowers bloom, and cherry and magnolia trees put on a spectacular pink and fuchsia…
Summertime in the Olympia Region
Summer is a coveted season in the Olympia region which draws visitors and locals alike to the outdoors to enjoy sunny days, temperate weather, and tons of evergreen adventures.
Top 15 Fall Things to Do in Olympia & Beyond
Autumn in and around Olympia brings cooler weather, changing leaves, and abundant opportunities to get outdoors. Celebrate the season with these top fall experiences!
Top Winter Activities
Winters in Olympia are for sleeping-in, spending time with friends and family, and celebrating the holidays at the festive events and markets that pop up throughout the season.
Featured Stories
Where To Find Brunch in Olympia & Beyond
Where to Find Donuts in Olympia & Beyond
Top Fishing Spots in Olympia & Beyond
Spa & Wellness Escapes in Olympia & Thurston County
Six Indie Bookstore Gems
A Taste of Thailand in Olympia and Thurston County: Where to Find the Best Dishes
Where to Find Pickleball Courts in Olympia & Beyond
How to Pack: Tips To Help You Pack Like A Pro
Top Fun-Filled Family Activities to Wow Your Kids
A Pooch’s Paradise: The Best Places to Bring Your Dog in the Olympia Region
Traveling with your dog can be a blast! But finding a place to travel with your canine companion can sometimes…
Where to Find Great Latin Cuisine in Olympia and Beyond
Olympia and the greater Thurston County area offer a vibrant culinary scene that reflects the diverse cultural tapestry of its…
Where to Take Your Valentine
The season of love is upon us.
Six Romantic Things to Do in the Olympia Region
Bags packed. ✔️ Reservations made. ✔️ Sitter scheduled. ✔️
Take a Day Trip For Dog-Friendly Hikes in Capitol Forest
There are few things better than taking a hike. The crisp, clean air, stunning vistas, the solitude and the plentitude…
A Taste of Thailand in Olympia and Thurston County: Where to Find the Best Dishes
Olympia and Thurston County are home to a vibrant Thai community and a thriving culinary scene showcasing the unique flavors…
Five South Sound Road Trips
King 5 Evening has announced the Olympia area’s Giant Metal Cows as one of Western Washington’s top Roadside Attractions.
The Most Instagrammed Spots in Olympia & Beyond
From snapping selfies at the state capitol, capturing wildlife at the Billy Frank Jr Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge to documenting…
Take a Trip To The Capitol Forest For Hiking Trails You Won’t Forget
Imagine 150 miles of trails dedicated to recreation, all within a short drive of Grays Harbor, Thurston, Lewis, Clark and…
Where to Find Hand-Crafted Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Drinks
In the evergreen landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, a fascinating shift is brewing—one that celebrates the art of savoring without…
Where to Find Pickleball Courts in Olympia & Beyond
Ready to have some fun and get active in Thurston County? Grab your paddle and head to one of the…
Spa & Wellness Escapes in Olympia & Thurston County
Traveling can be exhilarating, but it can also take a toll on your mind and body. That's why prioritizing wellness…
Top Places to See Christmas Lights in Olympia and Beyond
Celebrate the holidays in Thurston County with twinkling displays and annual tree lightings.
Six Indie Bookstore Gems
Discover a world of literary wonders and support local businesses at these indie bookstore gems!
Free Things to Do Around Olympia
Explore a variety of free activities around Thurston County.
Where To Find Brunch in Olympia & Beyond
There's no better way to spend a weekend in the Olympia region than lazy mornings with family, friends, a great…
2024 Holiday Shopping and Activity Guide
If you're looking for festive activities, holiday happenings, or great shopping ideas, you've come to the right place. Scroll through…
Cut Your Own Christmas Tree at These Family-Friendly Farms
Over the river and through the woods ... but Grandma's house will have to wait. We've got a Christmas Tree…
Explore Thurston County on Intercity Transit
Intercity Transit is your go-to for getting around Olympia — home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, stunning natural…
The Best Yoga and Pilates Studios in Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater & Beyond
Unroll your mat, energize your body, and calm your mind in scenic Thurston County.
Family Fun at Rutledge Family Farm
Since opening its doors in 2000, Rutledge Family Farm has become a cherished destination for families and visitors, offering a…
Top 9 Spots to View Mount Rainier in Olympia, Tumwater, Lacey & Beyond
On sunny days with clear skies, it is hard to imagine a more beautiful destination than the Olympia region. Surrounded…
Where to Find Thanksgiving Dinner in the Olympia Region
Cooking an entire Thanksgiving dinner is overrated - especially when you have access to so many amazing restaurants ready and…
Treasures of the Sound: Salish Seafoods’ Sustainable Shellfish
The Squaxin Island people have deep traditions in the harvesting of food from the Salish Sea, an inland sea encompassing…