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
Kayaking in Olympia: Woodard Bay Conservation Area
See a bat nursery while enjoying a serene kayaking adventure in Thurston County
Tumwater Parks and Recreation
Tumwater is rich in history, abounds in natural beauty, and is paving the way to be a hub of local…
Olympia Harbor Days
Olympia Harbor Days (OHD) is an annual free non-profit festival celebrating the maritime heritage of the Puget Sound in Olympia…
Start Your E‑Bike Excursion at the Charming Swantown Inn Bed and Breakfast in Olympia
Finding new ways for visitors and locals to actively explore the beautiful Olympia area is why the Swantown Inn offers…
Budd Bay Café, The Oyster House, and River’s Edge Restaurant
Enjoy fresh seafood, a hearty meal after golf, and incredible views of the bay at these three local hot spots!
Join the Rainier Bluegrass Festival in Celebrating 30 Years
For three decades, the Rainier Bluegrass Festival has been a cherished celebration of music and community, drawing enthusiasts from all…
Compete In and Experience the Washington State Senior Games
Whether you've come to participate in the games or to cheer on family and friends, the Washington State Senior Games…
Top Swim Spots In the Olympia Region
Our locals have a saying, 'It's the water.' After an afternoon in one of the region's iconic swimming spots, you'll…
Hop On E‑bikes To Explore Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater And Scenic Thurston County With Ease
If you have been thinking about bicycling around Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater and scenic Thurston County but aren’t sure if you…
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…
Governor’s Mansion
Nestled in the heart of Olympia, the Governor’s Mansion stands as a testament to Washington State’s rich history and cultural…
Basilico Ristorante — We Bring Italy to You
Redefining authentic Italian cooking starts by creating an artisanal experience. Basilico Ristorante creates rich and diverse dishes that reflects the…
Experience Lady Washington
Embark on a journey back in time aboard the Lady Washington, a majestic replica of an 18th-century sailing vessel, offering…
Celebrate Yelm’s Centennial
Visit Yelm, Washington to celebrate its Centennial with a walking tour, free concert, and more.
Top 5 Ways to Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Olympia and Beyond
Commemorate our fallen heroes for this Memorial Day weekend and embark on a military-centered itinerary in the Olympia region.
Lacey Parks, Culture and Recreation
Lacey embodies the very best of living, working, and playing in the Pacific Northwest. Known for its natural environment, nearly…
Ricardo’s Kitchen + Bar: A Memorable Dining Experience
Tucked away inconspicuously in a business district in Lacey, Ricardo’s Kitchen and Bar is a family-owned steakhouse serving customers a…
Olympia Film Society & Capitol Theater
Presenting film, music, and art at the historic Capitol Theater in downtown Olympia with a mission “to present film, music…
City of Olympia Parks, Arts, & Recreation
Surrounded by shoreline and evergreen forests, a multitude of experiences that help build community and enrich lives await exploration. Home…
Traditions Fair Trade — Fair Trade Means A Fair World
Bringing music, community, and handmade fair trade wonders to Olympia since 1996, Traditions Fair Trade is a vibrant community center…
Olympic Flight Museum
Discover the allure of aviation history nestled within the lush landscapes of Tumwater, WA at the Olympic Flight Museum. Step…
Browsers Bookshop and Ossa Skinworks: Transforming Community Through Connection
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we’re delving into the inspiring journey of two trailblazers and the ripple effects of…
Discovering Sensory Serenity: Exploring Thurston County With The Sensory Tool House
Traveling with neurodivergent family members can present unique challenges, from navigating unfamiliar environments to managing sensory overload, the journey can…
Experience Chelsea Farms Oyster Bar’s Tide-To-Table Dining